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Billman Award Spotlight: As the latest recipient of the Billman Award. Also, as an international graduate student specializing in community dance, I utilized this honor to introduce the transformative principles of community dance to my home island of Antigua in the Caribbean for free.

My initiative, Dance4yourlife, was a five-day intensive camp designed specifically for teenagers aspiring to pursue a future in dance. The program offered a unique hybrid experience that combined studio techniques with community dance practices, addressing the diverse needs of both dancers and their parents.

The Dancers engaged in intense technique training sessions with each instructor covering dances in contemporary dance/ Modern, Soca and Bollywood. The more relaxed sessions were spent in discussions with me about the benefits of community dance and the various options in career pathways available. There were discussions about dance in higher education and what that looks like for a Caribbean national in the USA.

The camp was intense and ran from 1pm to 8: 30pm. Parents, friends and family members joined the evening sessions where we engaged in community dance activities that allowed dancers and parents to collaborate in fun dance games and dancemaking activities that included everyone. The students and guests thoroughly enjoyed these activities.

Participants explored various dance genres and training methods while engaging in meaningful discussions about the role of dance in higher education and the many benefits of community involvement in the arts. Dance4yourlife not only enriched the students’ skills but also fostered a supportive environment for families, creating a lasting impact on the local dance community.

"Make your life the stage upon which you dance"

Tavia Hunte

As an educator with over 25 years of experience, I've witnessed the profound impact of dance on nearly every member of my community. The power of dance is truly transformational. There are countless flexible approaches we can take to leverage dance in addressing diverse needs within our communities. Whether fostering creativity, building connections, or promoting wellness, dance serves as a powerful tool for positive change and engagement.