Our Core Values and Why They Matter in Today’s Dance Industry
At SOUL DE SOUL, we believe that dance is not just an art form—it's a powerful force for transformation. In an industry often driven by trends, competition, and external validation, we hold ourselves to a different standard. Our values are the heartbeat of everything we do. They shape our events, influence our partnerships, and guide our relationships within the dance world. In this post, we’ll dive deep into the core values that drive SOUL DE SOUL and explore why they are more crucial than ever for today’s dancers, educators, and industry leaders.
1. Celebrating Every Artist’s Unique Voice\At SOUL DE SOUL, we champion diversity, equity, and inclusivity in everything we do. We believe that dance, like any form of art, thrives when it is representative of all cultures, backgrounds, and identities. By intentionally creating a space where people of all races, ethnicities, abilities, genders, and experiences are celebrated, we ensure that every artist feels seen, valued, and respected. The dance industry has long struggled with issues of representation, but we’re committed to being part of the solution. We recognize that when diverse voices come together, the art form becomes richer, more dynamic, and more powerful. For us, inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a way of life. And by creating space for everyone to be themselves, we help each artist flourish in their own way.
2. Authenticity Over Perfection
In an age where social media often celebrates polished, filtered versions of reality, we stand by the importance of authenticity. For us, it’s not about being perfect—it’s about being real. Authenticity fuels creativity, allowing artists to express themselves freely and without fear of judgment. This value is vital in today’s industry, where performers and creatives are too often pushed to conform to unrealistic standards. At SOUL DE SOUL, we encourage dancers to embrace their true selves—because it’s through this authenticity that the most powerful art is made.
3. Connection Over Competition
While the dance world thrives on healthy competition, we believe in creating spaces that prioritize connection. It's about fostering relationships that help each other grow, rather than comparing or competing against one another. Today’s dance industry needs more collaboration and less isolation. We’ve seen how deep connections, whether between dancers, teachers, or artists, can spark creativity and push the boundaries of what’s possible. SOUL DE SOUL isn’t just an event; it’s a community—a collective of like-minded individuals who lift each other up.
4. Self-Expression Over Conformity
In the dance world, there is often pressure to fit a specific mold or style in order to be accepted or recognized. However, we believe that true growth happens when dancers are encouraged to express their unique selves, rather than conforming to a standard. When artists feel free to explore their own voice and vision, they unlock a new level of creativity and passion. This value is essential because when dancers can fully express who they are, they experience a deeper sense of fulfillment and accomplishment. It’s through this freedom of self-expression that the industry grows richer and more diverse, and artists can push the boundaries of their craft.
5. Empowerment Through Support and Community
One of the greatest gifts we can offer in the dance industry is a supportive community that empowers artists to step into their fullest potential. At SOUL DE SOUL, we believe that when artists are uplifted by those around them, they feel empowered to push through any challenges. This support fosters confidence and helps artists overcome self-doubt, ultimately allowing them to flourish in ways they never thought possible. When dancers feel seen, heard, and supported, they’re more likely to take bold steps in their craft, express themselves freely, and reach new heights. A community that nurtures these values is essential for thriving in a competitive and often isolating industry.
6. Cultivating Long-Term Growth Over Instant Success
In a world obsessed with instant gratification and viral moments, it’s important to shift the focus back to long-term growth and sustained success. At SOUL DE SOUL, we emphasize the importance of growing at your own pace, building meaningful relationships, and developing your craft in an authentic way. This mindset isn’t just about achieving short-term recognition; it’s about fostering skills, mental resilience, and self-awareness that will carry dancers throughout their careers. Artists who feel empowered to take the time to grow in a supportive, pressure-free environment are more likely to thrive in the long run—turning their passion into a lasting legacy.
7. Our Green Initiative for a Better Tomorrow
At SOUL DE SOUL, we recognize the importance of sustainability in everything we do. As artists, we understand the power of creativity to inspire change, and we believe that the same creativity can be used to protect and nurture the environment. Our green initiative is about making conscious decisions to reduce our carbon footprint, minimize waste, and encourage eco-friendly practices in the dance community. We’re committed to integrating sustainable practices into all aspects of our operations—from using recyclable materials for event setups to minimizing plastic waste and promoting eco-conscious transportation options for our faculty and participants. This initiative is not just about reducing waste—it’s about creating a culture of environmental consciousness within the dance world. We want to inspire our community to think about the broader impact of their choices and lead by example. Sustainability is a value that supports the well-being of not just the artists, but the planet we all share. By supporting green initiatives, we’re contributing to a brighter, cleaner future for all.
Our values are more than just words—they are the foundation of everything we create at SOUL DE SOUL. In a fast-paced, ever-changing industry, they are the compass that guides us, keeps us grounded, and reminds us of what truly matters. As we continue to grow and evolve, we invite you to align with us in this mission. Together, we can redefine the dance industry—not by competing, but by connecting, creating, and living with purpose.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on our core values. Do they resonate with you? Join us in this movement by subscribing to our newsletter, following us on social media, or attending one of our events. Let’s create a dance community that lives with heart, integrity, and authenticity.
with magic,
Mackenzie Martin
FOUNDER & CEO