OUR TEAM
The DAR Community Centre and DAR KIDS team is a dynamic and passionate group dedicated to creating a nurturing and engaging environment for children and families. With diverse skills and experiences, organise fun and educational activities, promote positive social interaction, and foster a sense of community and belonging for everybody involved.
Lola Smolokowski
Director
Lola Smolokowski, 46 – DAR Community Centre Director and DAR Charity Association Co-founder, is a very accomplished person. She is a devoted mother of twin boys, fluent in English, French, Spanish and Russian, and her professional background is a testament to her versatility and unwavering commitment to positively impacting society. She is a gifted concert pianist and Founder of the project “HomeOrchestra” Switzerland. Lola’s education includes studies at renowned institutions such as Gnessin School of Music, State University of World Languages, and Geneva Conservatory of Music, with a Master’s Degree in Piano Performance.
Claire Willing
Childcare Executive
Claire Willing, 49 – brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to her role. From the Island of Jersey, UK, Claire has spent 25 years working across Europe, specialising in caring for neurotypical, special needs children, vulnerable adults, and the elderly. Her diverse background includes nanny work and special needs schools. She has run a horse yard, facilitating interactions between children and animals. In Spain, she worked as a special needs tutor and shadow person for the Javea expat community and at Xabia International College. Her passion and dedication ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all children at “DAR KIDS”.
Natalia Khorkova
Child Psychologist
Natalia Khorkova, 45 – brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. With a Master’s degree in Psychology from the Institute of Development and Psychology in Ukraine, she has also specialized in “Mindfulness” from the University of Salamanca, Spain. Natalia’s postgraduate studies include various therapeutic modalities such as trauma therapy, family therapy, psychosomatics, coaching, and Gestalt therapy. At “DAR KIDS,” she employs an innovative art method called “Right-Hemispheric Painting” to work with children, providing a unique and effective approach to therapy.
Alvaro Diez
Music Coordinator
Alvaro Diez, 48 – brings extensive expertise as a Professor in Drums and Percussions. Beginning his drum studies at 12 years old, he graduated from Trinity School in New York, where he trained under renowned teachers such as Mark Schuldman, Gregg Bissonette, and Dom Famularo. Alvaro specializes in Symphonic Drums and Modern Drums and holds a Master’s Degree in Classical Percussion. His teaching experience includes music instruction at “Laude Lady Elizabeth” and “Aprosdeco” schools in Spain and working with centres dedicated to individuals with functional diversity.
Igor Vorotyntsev
Sport Coach
Igor Vorotyntsev, 54 – is an accomplished martial artist and coach. With a diverse background in various disciplines, including boxing, hand-to-hand combat, Shotokan karate, judo, and more, Igor has achieved numerous titles and accolades. He has won championships in Russia and internationally, including the World Jiu-Jitsu International Federation and Kenpo. Igor is also involved in coaching and has trained world champions in various martial arts. Additionally, he holds executive positions in regional martial arts federations and is recognised for his contributions to the development of hand-to-hand combat in Russia.
Vladislav Bannikov
Guitar Teacher
Vladislav Bannikov, 20 – a skilled classical guitarist with a strong foundation in music. He excels in both acoustic and electric guitars. Vladislav has been based in Jávea since 2003 and is fluent in Russian, English, and Spanish. His education includes Music and Art A-levels from XIC and ESO from IE.S. La Mar, Jávea. He has received music education from Moscow Music Elementary School, La Escuela de Música del Poble Nou de Benitatxel, and Conservatorio Profesional de Música de Jávea. Vladislav has achieved notable success in music competitions and actively participates in Javea Jazz Big Band and Orba Guitar Orchestra.
Nieves Miñana
Crafts Teacher
Nieves Miñana, 32 – has found her passion in both teaching and ceramic artistry, blending her roles as a dedicated educator and an inspired ceramicist. As a teacher, she lovingly imparts her knowledge of various crafts to the children of DAR KIDS, an initiative close to her heart. Not only does she guide the little hands in creating beautiful pieces, but she also encourages the parents to join in on the creative journey. Pots and cups with smiley faces, colourful fish figurines and fun vases in casual style. Nieves’s creations make us smile and remind us that we are all still children.
Inessa Morozova
Special Needs Coordinator
Inessa Morozova, 40 – in DAR KIDS, Inessa plays a crucial role in welcoming and integrating neurodivergent children and visitors with special needs. As a neuropsychologist and cognitive psychotherapist, she brings a wealth of expertise and experience to her position. With an impressive educational background, Inessa studied at Research Tomsk State University; she is also an expert in EEG as a diagnostic tool for neuropsychologists and is a certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. Inessa’s dedication to her field and her passion for helping children with developmental challenges make her a valuable asset to the team.