Meet Sam, she is originally from Ft. McMurray but has lived in Kelowna for more than 20 years. Sam is a dancer, teacher and choreographer who began her training here in Kelowna more than 15 years ago. As of summer 2018, she became the proud new owner of The Village Dance Academy with the vision to create a studio that values love, kindness, respect, diversity and community.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My favourite person to spend time with isn't a person because I really love my dog! BUT my partner, Jesse… he is a close second.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Fuel Supplements! Honest and credible advice and the best products in town.
Describe yourself in one word.
Motivated.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
I am writing this from London right now! I'm pretty content here at the moment, despite the crazy humidity and heat.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
I love to lift! I am a proud member of Crossfit Okanagan. If you're looking for a great local and friendly gym, you need to check them out!
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I was probably 15 years old and peed my pants on stage. It really wasn't that embarrassing, it is actually much more common than you'd think.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I am lucky to be inspired on the daily! Being surrounded by my students is an ongoing inspiration. They are the reason I do what I do, and the biggest blessing I have.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
I used to go to "dance camp" in Jasper every summer. It was a week of amazing classes, hilarious contests and some white water rafting to top it off. The good ol' days.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
We put on an annual fundraiser every fall in support of a local charity. This past year, our studio raised $1000.00 for Foundry Kelowna!
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Mosquitoes.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Any small beach access!
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would love to see Kelowna buckle down and focus on our youth and their mental health. I deal with kids and teenagers on the daily and it can be heartbreaking listening to them talk. The lack of confidence, the judgement and hate they can place on themselves and each other can take its toll. Building confident, healthy,
happy kids should be a priority in our community!
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
NATURE!
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
- Hit 40 countries before I turn 40.
- Take my dancers on a humanitarian missions trip!
- Have babies!
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I used to dance on a pretty cool hip hop company based out of Southern California that won 2nd place at Hip Hop International which is much like the Olympics of hip hop dance!
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
You can check us out on Instagram and Facebook. @thevillagedanceacademy
What is the name of your business/organization?
The Village Dance Academy
Why did you get into/start this business?
I had been involved with this studio for over a decade (previously known as Reflections Dance Studio) and it was time for a big leap of faith!
What is the goal of your business?
To make dance accessible and enjoyable for everybody! I want to bring that community vibe into the studio and make all of our families and students truly feel like a part of "the village".
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
When to say no!
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
Many mistakes were made, but I wouldn't be where I am today without them! Looking back, I am more than grateful for every bump in the road and wouldn't change a thing.
What do you always find yourself saying?
Make good choices. Call if you don't feel safe.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Trust your gut.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Ellen Degeneres!
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
It is an easy way to support your people! Keeps the money in your communities pockets rather than the big corporations!
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Hard to say! I think creating The Village Dance Academy has to take the cake though. I have never worked so hard or been so focused on one thing. I am very proud of what myself and my team have created and can't wait to see what the future holds.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Tina Mandl! We grew up dancing together and it's been the best watching her lady boss her way to the top at Oranj! I also need to give love to Tatum and Jodie Bell who have helped me every step of the way. They are die-hard villagers and I am so grateful!
Some general comments I would like to share are:
If you are interested in dancing with us and joining The Village check out www.thevillagedanceacademy.ca! We offer RECREATIONAL to COMPETITIVE classes in Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap, Ballet, Acro, Contemporary, Lyrical and Pre-Dance for anyone ages 3 to adult! #ittakesavillage
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great. Thank you, Kelowna!
