Risto Lang Finnish dancer, national champion in ballroom dancing in a wheelchair. Country: Finland

Content:

1. Risto Long: A Champion Dancer
2. A Passion Discovered
3. A Rising Star
4. A Voice for the Disabled
5. A Collaborative Journey
6. An International Reputation
7. Continued Success

Risto Long: A Champion Dancer

Risto Long, a Finnish dancer, is the country's champion in wheelchair ballroom dancing. Despite his physical limitations, Risto's talent and passion for dancing have propelled him to become one of the most prominent ballroom dancers in his country. Since childhood, Risto has been confined to a wheelchair, but that has not hindered him from gaining worldwide recognition.

A Passion Discovered

Even during his studies, Risto developed a fascination with dancing and dedicated most of his free time to this unconventional hobby. His exceptional results in dance competitions at the national level affirmed his talent. Inspired by his success, Risto made the decision to pursue dancing as his main profession.

A Rising Star

In 1996, Risto made his debut as a professional dancer. He initially performed at various events and later appeared in the award-winning short film "Waltz." This film garnered international acclaim and brought Risto into the spotlight. Encouraged by his success, Risto continued to perform and train diligently, leading to another victory at the national ballroom dancing championship two years later.

A Voice for the Disabled

Risto has transformed from an exceptionally successful and talented dancer into a prominent public figure and advocate for the disabled. His public activities primarily revolve around supporting individuals with disabilities. He actively seeks out and promotes the talents of fellow disabled individuals, striving to create opportunities for their talents to flourish.

A Collaborative Journey

In 2002, Risto embarked on a solo career and frequently collaborated with renowned Finnish artist Jari Karttunen. Their collaboration resulted in the aforementioned short film. In October 2012, representatives from a Korean organization focused on supporting talented disabled artists reached out to Risto. They invited him to a ballroom dancing festival held in Seoul, where Risto's performances of "Fauni" and "Vanha valssi," created in collaboration with Karttunen, received resounding applause.

An International Reputation

One of the performances was so well-received by the Korean audience that it was later included in the program of the Suwon Arts and Opportunities Center, located in Suwon-si. Risto continues to actively collaborate with Jari Karttunen, who has become a master of non-traditional choreography. Karttunen currently leads several dance schools in Seoul, training a multitude of talented wheelchair dancers.

Continued Success

Besides nurturing talent, Jari also organizes and promotes international projects, with a focus on fostering connections between Korea and Finland. Risto remains open to new projects, but his existing commitments keep him busy. In October 2013, he is scheduled to embark on a tour of South Korea, showcasing his dancing skills.

Strong-willed

Chris Clark	Chenai Boucher	Ganesh
Savita Rani	Elaine Sheaf	Jayden Fontenot