M.O.B My Own Business

by Sonja Camara
Candy Dance Stars

When did you start your business? In 2015
Why did you start your business? Since 2001, I have been nurturing a
business that intertwines my librarian profession with a passion for dance.
Initially, I taught literacy and numeracy, but soon, my love for dance led me to
instruct ballroom and line dancing.
As interest grew, I self-funded these classes, later expanding into Zumba, and
specifically Zumba Gold, catering to the over-50s demographic.
What training was required?
My diverse qualifications, including a Lifelong Learning certificate and a YMCA
fitness credential, underpin my business’s
operations

Your typical day at work?
As a dance instructor’s my day begins with class preparation, followed by student registration. The session starts with stretching, self-massage, and Pranayama, then transitions into dance, starting with the Waltz and Cha-Cha. Each class introduces a new dance like Soca or Indian to elevate heart rates, concluding with a Rumba cooldown. Music selection is diverse, catering to the mixed cultural backgrounds of the students. Each class is a vibrant mix of stretching,
self-massage, deep breathing, and various dance styles, reflecting the cultural
diversity of my students.
Challenges in the business?
Despite the success, financial constraints of my clientele pose a challenge, often
resulting in free classes to maintain inclusivity. Additionally, navigating social
media promotion remains a hurdle in expanding my reach.
Rewards in the business?
The true reward in my business lies in the positive feedback and personal growth of clients, exemplified by their ability to showcase their skills at prestigious events and venues, reflecting the impactful nature of the services provided. My ultimate goal is to enhance the health of those over 50 through the joy of dance, striving to overcome these obstacles.
Best advice given to you regarding your business that you took on board?
The best advice was to establish a presence on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, leading to a dance video
garnering 20,000 views.

Contact information
Candy Fernandes: PHONE 447961044079

e [email protected]