Miss Holly’s Story: Creating Inclusive Dance Spaces for Every Little Star ✨
Spot Miss Holly on the cover of this month’s Cardiff Life magazine! 👀 You may be able to spot her, but do you know much about her? With International Women’s Day just behind us, it felt like the perfect moment to share a little more about the “why” behind everything Miss Holly does.
From Wales to the Dance World
‘When I moved to London from Wales at 19 to train as a dancer, I realised just how many opportunities existed there that I hadn’t always had growing up. It planted a seed that one day I wanted to bring more of that joy and access to dance back home.
What I didn’t realise at the time was how much more than dance it would become. It might look like tutus and twirling on the surface, but behind the scenes there’s a lot of plate-spinning, problem solving and constantly thinking about how to make sure every little one who walks into class feels welcome and valued.
Spot Miss Holly on the cover of this month’s Cardiff Life magazine!
Creating a Space Where Everyone Belongs
A huge part of that for me is making sure dance is a space where everyone belongs. That means challenging old ideas about who ballet is for, encouraging boys to dance, advocating consistently about representation and making sure our classes reflect the communities we serve.
It’s also why creating spaces for little ones with ALN has become such an important part of our journey. Watching little ones and their families who may have struggled to find activities where they feel comfortable come into a non-judgmental class, relax, bond and build confidence is something that will always mean the world to me.
More Than Just Ballet
Because for me it’s never just been about ballet.
It’s about creating classes where little ones can express themselves, belong and feel proud of who they are.
Watching our little dancers (and their grown ups!) build friendships, find their confidence and fall in love with movement is the part that makes all the busy behind-the-scenes moments completely worth it.
Recognition at the Disruptive Franchise Awards
Since appearing on the cover of Cardiff Life magazine earlier this year, Miss Holly has received even more well-deserved recognition. ✨
At the Disruptive Franchise Awards, Miss Holly was named a finalist for Inspirational Person in Franchising. She also went on to win two incredible awards:
🏆 Social Impact Champion
🏆 Franchise Inclusivity Champion
These achievements celebrate the positive impact Miss Holly continues to make through her babyballet school. In particular, they recognise her dedication to creating welcoming and inclusive spaces.
As a result, more children can feel valued, build confidence and experience the joy of dance.
For Miss Holly, inclusion remains at the heart of everything she does. From championing representation to encouraging more boys to dance, she continues to challenge ideas about who ballet is for.
In addition, she creates supportive opportunities for little ones with additional learning needs. Therefore, more children and families can enjoy activities where they feel comfortable, included and able to be themselves.
However, Miss Holly’s impact reaches far beyond the dance studio. Through her passion, leadership and commitment, she continues to create meaningful opportunities within her local community. At the same time, she inspires others across the franchising sector.
We’re incredibly proud to celebrate these fantastic achievements. Congratulations, Miss Holly, on being an all-round superstar and such an inspiring member of the babyballet family. 💖✨
Diolch yn fawr to all the wonderful families who continue to be part of this special community. Your support helps make every class, opportunity and achievement possible. ✨