Today we’d like to introduce you to Zola Williams.
Hi Zola, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My mother put me in a dance class when I was five years old. I was a shy child and my mom thought that dance would help me come out of my shell a bit. I took to it and continued to dance into adulthood. I was a competitive dancer throughout my childhood until I graduated high school. During this time, I was able to win many titles and awards. I graduated from The University of the Arts with a BFA in dance performance with my concentration being ballet. Shorty after graduating, I was cast in the musical production of The Lion King. I have continued to perform in the show on and off for over a decade, right up until COVID shook the world. I’ve also been able to do fun jobs such as the movie Ted 2 and the royal wedding in Dubai for Sheikha Lateefa Mohammed Al Maktoum. With recognition from my dancing abilities, I was invited to audition to become a Dora Milaje for the Marvel movie Black Panther. I was later cast and continued on to Avengers: Infinity War. On the side, when not working, I also teach Pilates. I received my Pilates certification from Equinox Pilates institute in 2013 and teach whenever I have the time to. In December of 2016, I became the first Black female Pilates instructor to grace the cover of Pilates Style Magazine. There is so much more to come in my future and I cannot wait for the world to see it.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My road has mostly been a smooth one but as with most artists, jobs come and go and the time in between is very scary and uncertain.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I consider myself a professional dancer and Pilates instructor. The type of dance I specialize in is contemporary ballet, jazz and modern. I am most proud of my first professional job, The Lion King. I am very humbled and proud to have been a part of the historical movie Black Panther. I think my kindness sets me apart from many.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Be kind, work hard and try to not care about what others think about you.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: instagram.com/pilatesbyzola
- Twitter: twitter.com/pilatesbyzola
- Youtube: youtube.com/zolawilliams
- SoundCloud: soundcloud.com/zolathedj
Image Credits:
William Dick – WD Photo Inc Patrick Tak Levi Walker Pilates Style Magazine
