Hello everyone! My name is Arina Tishchenko, I’m 29 years old, and I proudly represent the United Arab Emirates. Originally from Ukraine, I now live between Dubai and various tropical locations where I host retreats and perform.
Tell us something about your work: how did you get into Belly Dance?
Dance has always been a part of my soul, but belly dance found me at a time when I was searching for a deeper connection with my femininity. I was captivated by its grace, power, and sacred energy.
I actually started belly dancing when I was 10 years old. At that time, the TV series “The Clone” was very popular in my country, and the character Jade (Jadi) inspired a whole generation with her beautiful oriental dances. The style became a cultural sensation, and I immediately felt drawn to it. I began training passionately, and over time, it became not just my profession, but my way of life.
What does belly dancing mean to you on an emotional and personal level?
Belly dance is my language of emotion. It allows me to express my sensuality, inner strength, and vulnerability all at once. It has helped me heal, grow, and reconnect with my body in a beautiful, empowering way. It’s not just dance, it’s a return to the essence of being a woman.
Is there a performance that you remember with particular emotion? If so, tell us what marked the moment for you.
Yes, I have a few performances that I remember with deep emotion, but two stand out vividly in my heart.
One was during one of my retreats on a private island in the Maldives. I danced under the moonlight by the ocean, barefoot on the sand, with a bonfire glowing nearby. Surrounded by women from all over the world, it felt like a sacred ceremony rather than a performance. In that moment, I felt completely free, aligned with my truth, and deeply connected to the earth, the ocean, the women watching, and to myself.
The other unforgettable moment happened one summer in Turkey, at a stunning 5-star hotel nestled in the mountains, with panoramic views of both the majestic peaks and the shimmering sea. I danced for over 500 people, and the energy was electric. The beauty of the setting, combined with the enthusiasm of the audience, created a magical atmosphere that marked me forever.
In addition to practicing it, you are also a dance teacher. What are the qualities that a belly dancer absolutely must have?
A true belly dancer must have authenticity, emotional expression, and deep presence. Technique is important, but the real magic comes from within, when you embody the music and let your heart guide the movement. Confidence, softness, and strength must coexist in harmony.
You are also the founder of an all-female project. What is the goal of the retreats? And where did the idea come from?
I founded Goddess Retreats as a safe space for women to reconnect with their feminine energy, bodies, and inner power. The idea came from my own journey, I wanted to share the tools and practices that helped me heal and transform. Through dance, sound healing, nature, and sisterhood, we create unforgettable, life-changing experiences.
Would you like to combine dance and fashion in a creative project?
Absolutely. Dance and fashion are both powerful forms of self-expression. I would love to co-create a project that celebrates feminine beauty through movement and design something artistic, sensual, and bold that brings together costume, performance, and empowerment.
Why did you decide to participate in Miss Europe Continental? Has it always been a dream for you to be part of the world of pageants?
I see Miss Europe Continental as a platform to amplify my message and inspire other women to embrace their uniqueness. While I didn’t grow up dreaming of pageants, I believe in stepping into new spaces with intention. This experience feels aligned with my mission to empower, express, and evolve.
How do you think this experience will influence your personal and professional growth?
It’s already pushing me beyond my comfort zone and helping me expand as an artist, leader, and woman. I believe this journey will open doors, new collaborations, and connections while deepening my confidence and visibility in both the dance and wellness communities.
Thank you for your time and for sharing something about yourself with the Miss Europe Continental community. See you soon in Naples.
Thank you! I’m deeply honored to be part of this beautiful journey and can’t wait to meet everyone in Naples.
FOLLOW HER ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/arina_tishchenko_/
