Our featured dancer of the week is the incredibly talented, Dayanara Vega. At such a young age, she has picked up a wide variety of dance styles. With all of her success and triumphs, she encourages others to stay humble and appreciate the art dance. She believes that improvement and persistence is better than any trophy.  We interviewed her for more on her inspiring outlook on dance.

How long have you been dancing for?

I have been dancing for 6 years, and competing for 5. 

What styles of dance do you specialize in?

I enjoy all styles of dance from hip hop and tap, to ballet and lyrical.  I also do salsa, bachata, mambo, and cha-cha.  Being a Latino, I love being able to connect dance with my heritage and share that with the world.  But....lyrical will always be my heart.  No matter how many styles of dance I try I always go back to lyrical. 

What made you want to start dancing?

I started dancing because it's what most little girl's dream of doing.  Every little girl wants to be a princess or ballerina at some point in their childhood.  My mom put me in a ballet class when I was 5 years old, but after one year I realized how happy dancing made me feel and knew I wanted to do more. As I get older I realize more and more that dance is my passion. Every time I perform, I feel alive.  Nothing makes me happier than being on stage.

What has been your greatest accomplishment on your dance career?

For me, my biggest accomplishment is being able to get up on stage in front of so many people and share my passion.  This is more important to me than any trophy I've ever won. 

What has been your most memorable moment?

The first time I performed a solo is definitely my favorite memory.  Being on stage by myself for the first time was very scary, but once I got out there I knew I could do it.  My confidence and love for dancing took over and it felt amazing. 

What has been your greatest challenge?

The biggest challenge I have faced as a competitive dancer is realizing that dancing is not always about winning a trophy.  It's about doing something you love and sharing that passion with the world.  

What advice would you give to other dancers?

Dancing helps me to deal with my emotions through movement.  The saying "You are your only competition" really hits home with me.  I'm learning each year that improving myself with every performance is more important than winning a competition.  

I am only 10 and still have so much to learn as a dancer. No matter how much I grow I know that there will always be someone better.  As long as I work hard and continue to love what I do, I know I will succeed! 

Follow Dayanara for more!

https://www.instagram.com/didiv101/