Mya, Trinidad and Tobago

How did you hear about World Belly Dance and what inspired you to participate?

I first heard about WBD in its infancy as it was being discussed on Belly Dance Forums. The beautiful intentions of the idea - to attempt to educate and reduce discrimination while creating positive associations fit so perfectly with my life that i felt that it was only natural for me to support and be involved in this. It was a great opportunity to do two things that i love - Dance and help others.

What does Belly Dance mean for you?

Bellydance is now a part of my life. It is like a close friend that i can turn to in hard times for support and in good times to celebrate with. Not only the dance itself but the many relationships that i have developed as a result of it has made me grow to love and respect it greatly and protect it as fiercely as i would any person who is important to me.

What message about Belly Dance would you like to send to those that have not started dancing yet?

Bellydance - especially where i live is one of the most disrespected artforms I've come across. If you are truly interested in learning about it, you must be prepared to be strong. You must be prepared to commit. You must be willing to make yourself open to strong criticism and you must be capable of dealing with it gracefully and elegantly. Bellydance is not for sissies. Respect the dance and commit yourself to studying it as you would ballet, or any other more "recognised" discipline - it will reward you in ways i cannot describe. This beautiful dance is one which will enrich your life if you allow it to - dare to learn, dare to be knowledgable - dare to be more than just another Bellydance Barbie.



At the age of 22, I have my Bachelor's Degree in Communications and International Relations and I currently work in the Marketing Department of one of this country's leading ITC providers. It is my dream to take my education one step further to achieve a Masters degree in International Studies, with a focus on Famine relief and Conflict resolution. My mother always laughs and says that i've always wanted to save the world but i truly believe that it is only we on this planet that can save each other! It is our responsibility as humans to help those who cannot help themselves and yes one person can make a difference! My aim right now is to dance my way to England where i can study these things and learn more ways that i can make a difference where it is needed most!

Things i love most in this world are helping others and puppies! I love animals and i have 4 dogs - 2 Anja & Tarik and their pups Ansuya and Bubba. I like sports, but i run like a girl *lol* i plan to take up squash very soon though - seems like a good idea to balance the ultra feminine dance with something ultra agressive for some reason!

Mya Alexander, Trinidad and Tobago