Rising Stars: Meet Shania Janel of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shania Janel

Hi Shania , so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Hi! my name is Shania Janel, I am 20 years old, and I am from Baltimore,
Maryland. I am a daughter, granddaughter, sister,
aunt, YouTube creator, dancer, teacher, and most of
all, a child of God. I was eleven years old when I
realized that I wanted to be a professional dancer and
choreographer. Little did I know, it would become
my lifeline through the ups and downs that awaited
me. Growing up in the church doing liturgical dance
has been my home for fifteen years. At a young age, I
was very determined, outspoken, and passionate.
Anything I put my mind to, I did it. I remember the
exact moment when I saw Gabby Douglas competing
at the 2012 Olympics. I told my mother that I wanted
to do gymnastics, and soon after my grandfather
was taking me to my first class. My family is
everything to me; they have been there every step of
the way with words of encouragement, wisdom, and
love. I was awarded Rookie of the Year and most
potential during my first high school track season. While still partaking in dance lessons after school! A busy schedule I know but I enjoyed the demand of it all!
Five years later, and now I truly know what most
potential means. All glory to God for the growth that
I’ve had this past year. I have been blessed with this
new sense of self-love and confidence. Growing up,
there were moments of doubt about the gift that God gave me. Negative thoughts of suicide, hopelessness,
and fear began to attack me. Looking back, those were the tactics of the enemy. What God has for me, no
one can delay or derail. I am grateful for the young woman that I am today. The trials, heartache, grief,
and uncomfortable situations It was all worth it to get to this very moment.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Definitely not a smooth road lol but if everything were peaches and cream I wouldn’t be as strong as I am today. Tribulations are worth going through no matter how hard they are. As a child I struggled with being rebellious and outspoken which led to me being in hot water. Growing up I only had one parent for majority of my life, I had family members who would step in and help where it was needed. Having an unreliable parent makes it hard to trust people and be vulnerable. It may be an entire different relationship but all relationships affect one another.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a professional dancer currently training at a performing arts college! I specialize in dance theatre and content creation! It certainly has been a joy learning from experienced people within the industry. I am known for incorporating the color pink in everything I create, whether it’s a website, flyer, merch, outfits, hairstyles etc. it’s a brand, a statement if you will lol. I am also known for teaching and pouring into my community by teaching dance. I am most proud of the short dance films that I create on a student budget. I just recently created a short film “Under The Lights” to the song Boom Boom Pow By The Black Eyed Peas. It was such an enjoyable process!
What sets me apart from others is my purpose, positivity and the genuine love that I have for lifting each other up. Another thing that sets me apart is the light that shines from within, being a Child of God isn’t easy but it’s worth it.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Having discernment has worked well when it comes to finding a mentor. Not everyone has the best intentions for you, Which means you have to protect yourself! Knowing who you are, your brand, your goals, it’s very important because you need someone who is going to dream big with you or bigger!! Never limit yourself.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shania.janel?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@shania.janelw?si=X5EU9F595n3QA-XQ

Image Credits
@tdwphotography94