Annel Alvarez started a folklórico dance group as a way to find joy during a difficult time in her life. She never imagined her folklórico group would perform at an NFL halftime show, proudly representing the Hispanic community.

“Every Latin American country has its own folklórico. It basically represents a dance that originates from a specific area,” Annel says. “It is the dance art form of our culture. It’s how we express our roots. We can express what the weather is like in a specific state simply by how we’re moving our feet.”

When Annel’s folklorico dance group, Grupo Izcalli, got the chance to perform at an NFL halftime show, people in the crowd were moved by their performance.

“People have believed in us and our vision. We’re doing it because we enjoy our art and we really have a passion for what we do. We want to show the community there’s no right way to dance folklórico.

Some people think, “They’re an all-women’s group—there’s no way.” But there is a way. If you have a passion for what you do, you’ll make a way.”