We recently connected with Deidra Terrell and have shared our conversation below.

Deidra, appreciate you joining us today. Can you share a story about the kindest thing someone has done for you and why it mattered so much or was so meaningful to you?

The kindest thing anyone has ever done for me is give me a chance despite my shortcomings. Not everyone comes packaged with the long legs of a model, or the waist of a coke bottle. But the fact that I was given a chance to do what I know I am here to do and that someone believed in me, makes me know that the world still has amazing people in it.

Deidra, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

For people who do not know me, My name is Deidra Terrell and I am the owner of Innovation Dance Company of Memphis Tennessee. I just launched a new brand which is a smaller division of Innovation,
which is named PurFXshun Dance Academy, also located in Memphis Tennessee. I have been in this industry for over 25 years, and basically provide professional dance and tumbling training courses to the community despite the lack of experience and financial resources. Some of the most talented children have went on to be amazing professionals from this dance and mentorship program.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

Absolutely. In my years of professional work, a lot of people have doubted my capabilities because of my physical appearance. People have used me for my ability to teach their child that has never danced before, and after creating a finely tuned dancer, moved them to a company that they felt was more popular and would get them to a higher level. To the average coach, that would have broken their spirit. Although it hurt to see the child reluctantly leave, I knew that, that would make room and create opportunities for other children. I have become a lot more strict about enrollment and membership but nothing and no one could ever break my soul and that is why I continue to change the city one dance move at a time.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

The most helpful thing that helps with succeeding in this line of work is prayer, not listening to what outsiders say, and just staying the course. These kids benefit from this program so very much and the skills that they acquire can be used for life. Never allow anyone to tell you that it’s over. You are the main character in your book of life.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eforce12_4u/#
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Image Credits

Deidra Terrell