Grace A. Johnson-Wright is the epitome of a dance maven. Her immense talent, boundless creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit have propelled her to great heights in the dance industry. From the moment she founded Neema Dance Collective, it was clear that Grace was destined for greatness. Her choreography has garnered numerous awards and accolades, solidifying her status as an accomplished choreographer.
But Grace’s impact extends far beyond her own achievements. As a dance educator and artist developer, she has dedicated herself to nurturing the next generation of dancers. Her passion for supporting aspiring dancers is evident in everything she does. Whether it’s through her dance studio, her choreography, or her role as a mentor, Grace inspires and empowers dancers to embrace their own unique journey.
In a world where the dance industry can be competitive, Grace stands out as a beacon of positivity and encouragement. Her success stories are a testament to her ability to uplift others and help them reach their full potential. Grace A. Johnson-Wright is not just a dance maven; she is a force to be reckoned with, leaving an indelible mark on the dance community and inspiring dancers everywhere to follow their passion.
September 16th is National Dance Day! It is our distinct pleasure to feature Grace on our media platform. We believe our readers would be attracted to her story because she’s your average mother and wife juggling all things business, babies, and household and opening studios in different states. That in itself is a story. Please enjoy our interview!
What was the inspiration behind your brand?
Grace: My daughter, Dawsyn was the inspiration behind Neema Dance Collective. The month after she was born, I knew that my time working in the corporate industry was coming to an end. My pay and position were cut just before I entered maternity leave and that gave me all the passion I needed to jump-start my business back in 2016. Neema means Grace in the Swahili language.
Do you believe in work-life balance? If so, how do you maintain it?
Grace: I absolutely believe in work-life balance. All work and no play is never fun. I work just as hard as I play. Spa dates, lots of alone time, family trips, girl trips etc. are planned in my calendar. There are days that I do not book anything. Friday and Sunday are strictly reserved for my hosting gigs which I love, church and Sunday dinner with my family, and Friday’s, I relax.
What’s your best piece of advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs?
Grace: Be consistent.
Pace yourself. Success comes.
Put yourself on a schedule and stick to it.
Deliver on all of your promises.
Say what you mean, and mean what you say.
Stand firm on your beliefs.
Separate your emotions from business dealings.
Never involve your feelings in business transactions.
Who is your business role model? Why?
Grace:
Celebs
Diddy- He’s the ultimate music business mogul that works in and ON his brand.
Kelly Rowland- She’s the quiet storm. Beautiful, talented and funny. She never looks like she’s trying too hard.
Personal Brands
I absolutely love Ronne Brown Her branding is so cohesive and she knows exactly what she’s talking about. I’d love for my gracij productions brand to immaculate hers.
I love Tyler Whitley. Her lifestyle brand is amazing and her collaborations are really great.
What is your proudest business accomplishment?
Grace: My success is the success of the students. Every time they make an audition or are awarded scholarships it speaks volumes to our program and the work we do here.
From our teachings, our students have successfully auditioned and been placed in some of the top dance programs in the US like Duke Ellington School for the Arts, Baltimore School for the Arts, Suitland High School Center for the Visual and Performing Arts, Dance Theater of Harlem summer intensive, The Alvin Ailey school summer intensive, Debbie Allen Dance Academy summer intensive, The Washington Ballet, and Maryland Youth Ballet just to name a few. Our students have been placed in movies like “The Christmas Lottery” on BET, Debbie Allen’s Chocolate Nutcracker on Netflix, and several entertainment ads.
What type of dance does your studio specialize in?
Grace: NDC is unique! We offer classical ballet and pointe training, hip-hop, Horton technique, jazz, tap, dance fitness, mommy and me dance class, father/daughter dance classes, aerobics, Zumba, tumbling, liturgical, musical theater, contemporary and acrobatics training.
What’s your favorite style of dance?
Grace: Ballet and Acrobatics.
How do you inspire and motivate your students?
Grace: I coach with a firm hand and a kind heart. I invest my time into their personal growth as artists and as a person. I use a lot of my experiences to help coach and guide them on the right path.
What are some benefits of dancing?
Grace: Stress relief and mental relief. Dance is therapy, artistic expression, art, and sport. Dancing is also an awesome physical activity for all ages.
Keep up to date:
Instagram: @gracij
Dance Studio Instagram: @neemadancecollective
