Meet Mary Onuoha | Dance Company Owner and Choreographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mary Onuoha and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mary, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business has always been a dream of mine. I have always known that I love to lead people and I knew I wanted to have a major impact on others, especially those who have dealt with difficult upbringings. My love for dancing is where I found my lane, my voice, and my emotional outlet. When I was in high school I told my friends I wanted to have my own studio one day but it always felt so distant. Then in college I gained so many amazing experiences where I was put in positions to lead and it felt so natural to me. I have also been inspired by other women business owners around me, especially my mom. She became a single mother when she adopted me at the age of ten. That didn’t stop her from going after her dreams and being her own boss. I have always admired that and knew that one day I would do the same. It’s important to me that my kids see that the sky is the limit for what they want to achieve in life!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I began dancing professionally in high school as a full time dancer for the six flags show called “Funk Nation.” I also danced for a contemporary dance company called “Groupo Pakal.” Once I went to college I continued dancing professionally for artists including Drake, B. Samone, B Hamp, Opening for Rick Ross, 106 N Park Live TV show, and many more. I have been a dance teacher and choreographer for the past 13 years. I have had the opportunity to teach dance at several different studios, schools, choreographed for people’s special events, and now I’m even a choreographer for vocal artists.

What sets me apart from others is my resilience. I truly believe in my own success because I know there is no obstacle I can’t overcome as a business owner. It’s my goal to show other kids especially those who may go through separation from their biological parents, foster care, adoption, and trauma, that you do not have to be the circumstances you are brought into. You can break the cycle, address your trauma, and change the course of your life. For someone like me to be in such a possession to impact others, I want it to inspire others to know that they can do the same.

I’m most proud of the fact that I actually went for it. The fact that I actually decided to take this leap of faith and not allow fear to stop me from achieving my goals. It has not been an easy road to get to where I am. I have faced many challenges working for other studios, interacting with parents, but mostly trying to balance my passions and my family. I have two young children and a husband and it can become very tricky finding time to spend with them and making sure that I am giving them my absolute best. One thing for sure is I have been very intentional about the quality of time I spend with them and other people in my life. The times where there isn’t a great quantity of time I try to ensure it’s at least quality time together. I have overcome most of my challenges with lots of prayer, self-care, and encouragement from family and friends.

This time last year my husband was stuck in India for two months due to COVID, after going there for medical treatment due to Rheumatoid Arthritis practically debilitating his body. We made it through over a year of him having severe health issues but we are so blessed that he received excellent treatment in India and is doing much better. I would not have made it through that without constant prayer and the support of my family and friends.

Along the way I have learned that nothing is promised. So don’t waste time not doing what you love. I want to spend my days doing what brings me joy. I hope my company, along with the help of the amazing people working with me, can inspire our students to not only take dance as far as their hearts desire but also inspire self-confidence, discipline, and a love for dance!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
So my favorite thing to do is eat. Anyone who knows me knows that I’m going to eat and I’m going to find the best food around. I like going places to eat that not many people have heard of, I feel like you get the best customer service at places like that too. My favorite restaurant is Fish City, so if you’re in town you should go! Bishops Arts District (Oak Cliff) is a fun place to hang out. I love the vibe and diversity of Deep Ellum so I would definitely take my friend their to hang out and get drinks! I wish I could give more cool places but I honestly don’t go out a lot, so more than likely I would be calling another friend to ask what we should do or I would trust my handy dandy Yelp!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people who deserve recognition and have helped me get to where I am. First and foremost I want to thank God! The two people in my life who have helped me the most are my mom and aunt. They both came into my life when I was adopted at the age of ten and finally gave me a real family. My husband who has been by my side for all of my major accomplishments as well as continued to support me through all of my obstacles. My best friends (they know who they are) who always encourage me to chase my dreams and be the best version of myself. My business partner Alex Tiny B who will be co-directing with me. Lastly I want to shout out every student and parent I have ever taught. I have learned just as much from them as I hope they have learned from me!

Website: https://www.eventcreate.com/e/motiv8iondanceclasses

Instagram: Instagram.com/m8_danceco

Facebook: Facebook.com/motiv8iondance

Other: Instagram.com/mary_onuoha

Image Credits
Konstruktive Koncepts CCO