Today we’d like to introduce you to Nadiya Rennae.
Hi Nadiya, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in the Valley of Los Angeles, California—and my journey into the arts started early, in every sense. I was born at just 5 ½ months, weighing only 1 pound and a half—a true miracle baby. My parents have always reminded me that I came into this world as a fighter.
My mother was a professional ballerina, and my father, Bill Sharp, was the voice of 98.7 The Wave. So from day one, I was surrounded by both music and movement. Their love for the arts had a profound influence on me—by the age of three, I knew dance wasn’t just something I loved; it was something I was.
I started with ballet, then moved into gymnastics, acting, voice, and other dance styles like modern, lyrical, jazz-funk, and hip hop. Around age nine, I joined a dance company at the Performing Arts Center, and that’s really when everything clicked. The energy, the stage, the discipline—it felt like home. I trained under teachers who truly shaped me, and I’m forever grateful for their mentorship.
In high school, I joined the performing arts magnet program at Van Nuys High and earned a spot on the competitive dance team. We became two-time national champions, which was such a rewarding experience and taught me a lot about leadership, discipline, and performing under pressure.
That foundation led me to pursue not only dance but creative direction—where I could blend movement with storytelling and help shape powerful visual and emotional experiences. For me, dance isn’t just a craft—it’s the lens through which I view the world.
After graduating, I got my first opportunity as a dance instructor through a walk-on job at Birmingham Charter High School with the Youth Policy Institute After School Program. Ironically, I was hired by my former gymnastics coach — which made the transition even more meaningful. That moment marked the true beginning of my teaching career.
Over the past seven years, I’ve had the privilege of working across several local high schools, mentoring incredibly talented students who I still refer to as ‘my babies.’ I care deeply about their growth — not just as dancers, but as people. That connection and responsibility mean more to me than any title.
While I took college courses, my focus remained on choreography and building strong programs within the school district. Still, I felt a deep need to keep evolving, so I returned to intense training, worked with respected choreographers, and landed incredible jobs that helped me expand both technically and artistically. I’m still learning, still growing — and that keeps me grounded.
During that time, I also discovered a love for makeup artistry. It started as a side passion, but quickly became another creative outlet where I could help people feel confident and express themselves. That same energy led me to launch my own brand: HOMEGRLZ LLC — an accessories and lifestyle company that’s now branching into apparel. It’s a brand built for bold, empowered women (and some goods for the fellas, too — I didn’t forget them!).
I’m still evolving, and every chapter has shaped who I am as an artist, entrepreneur, and human being. The journey has had its ups and downs, but I’ve learned to embrace the process — because that’s where the real growth happens.
My journey began with dance, where I developed a sharp sense of timing, movement, and emotional expression. Over time, that evolved into directing—where I now conceptualize and lead creative projects from idea to execution.
Whether I’m choreographing a performance or overseeing a visual production, I approach every project with a balance of artistic vision and strategic thinking. Collaboration is a key part of my process, and I enjoy working closely with dancers, designers, and production teams to build cohesive, impactful experiences.
Ultimately, I bring both discipline and creativity to the table—someone who understands the rigor of performance and the broader vision needed to lead and inspire.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road hasn’t been easy — it’s had its speed bumps and unexpected turns — but I truly believe the road never ends, and there’s always a bright side. That’s how I’ve come to see my journey.
There were seasons where I struggled with self-doubt, insecurity, and the weight of outside judgment. During my training years, the biggest challenge was sacrifice — giving up time, relationships, and even opportunities to stay focused on growth. And honestly, one of the hardest things was constantly being there for others, often at the expense of my own goals. That imbalance started to take a toll, and I knew something had to change.
In the dance industry — and as a creative in general — finding balance is an ongoing process. For a while, I lost sight of myself trying to make everyone else happy. But that turning point, when I finally decided to pour back into me, changed everything. I had to let go of the idea of perfection, which was rooted in fear, and instead focus on authenticity. None of us are perfect, and we’re not meant to be.
As a professional dancer and entrepreneur, life can feel overwhelming. The pressure to constantly top your last performance or project is real. But through it all, I’ve come to understand that as long as I stay aligned with my purpose and stay true to who I am — no one can take that from me. I’m still growing, still evolving, and always striving to be better than I was yesterday — but now, I do it for me, not to please anyone else.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a professional dancer and creative director specializing in choreography, performance, and artistic direction. My work blends diverse dance styles with storytelling to create meaningful and memorable experiences on stage and in multimedia projects. I also have extensive experience teaching and mentoring young dancers, helping them develop both technically and creatively.
I’m known for my ability to connect deeply with both performers and audiences through emotionally driven choreography and visionary creative direction. People appreciate my discipline, versatility, and the passion I bring to every project — whether it’s on stage, in rehearsal, or behind the scenes shaping the overall artistic vision.
I’m most proud of the impact I’ve made as a mentor and teacher, watching talented young dancers grow into confident artists. Also, building my own brand, HOMEGRLZ LLC, which reflects my commitment to empowering creatives and celebrating authentic self-expression, is a huge accomplishment for me.
What sets me apart is my holistic approach to dance and creativity — combining technical skill, emotional storytelling, and entrepreneurial vision. I’m not only focused on performance but also on fostering community, inspiring growth, and pushing creative boundaries. Plus, having a background that spans performing, teaching, choreography, and business gives me a unique perspective that helps me lead projects with clarity and heart.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
I’m always excited to connect with fellow artists, creators, and organizations who share a passion for storytelling through movement and creative expression. Whether it’s collaborating on choreography, creative direction, workshops, or community projects, I’m open to opportunities that challenge me and allow us to create something impactful together.
People can support me by sharing my work, attending performances or events I’m involved in, and spreading the word about HOMEGRLZ LLC, my brand that celebrates empowerment and creativity. I also welcome partnerships that align with my values and vision, especially those focused on mentorship, education, and artistic growth.
The best way to reach me is through my professional contact channels, where I’m responsive and love engaging in conversations about new ideas and projects. Ultimately, I believe collaboration is about mutual respect and shared passion, so I’m eager to explore how we can uplift each other through our work.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nadiyarennae/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nadiya.strother?mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr
- Twitter: https://x.com/nadiyarennae?s=11&t=kFMhj1XYVu7wThbaY_WD6Q
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@nadiyarennae4082?si=_w0HjRHY7vRuy_FM
Image Credits
@flyingbeardphotography
@moonmanvisuals
@maramba.studios
@orelhafotos
@viixelvision
