We were lucky to catch up with Kodee Arbuthnott recently and have shared our conversation below.

Kodee, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I always knew I wanted dance to be my career once I started, but growing up in a small town in New Zealand, I had no idea it could actually become a reality. As a creative, it’s so easy to fall into the trap of comparison and self-doubt. There were times when I questioned if I was good enough or if I really had what it took to make it in this industry. But the moment everything clicked for me was when I booked my first big job dancing for Rita Ora at the Rugby World Cup.

Standing on that massive stage, feeling the energy of the crowd, and realizing I was getting paid to do what I love was surreal. In that moment, I knew without a doubt that this was exactly where I was meant to be. It wasn’t just a dream anymore it was real, and I didn’t want it to stop. That experience fueled my drive even more, pushing me to keep working, growing, and believing in myself. Because at the end of the day, doing what you love for a living is the biggest blessing of all.

Kodee, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m a professional dancer with a deep passion for movement, storytelling, and inspiring others through my art. My journey started in my early years when I competed in Hip Hop International (HHI), training with The Company NZ and The Royal Family dance crew. Through these experiences, I built a strong foundation and formed connections with some of the best choreographers from New Zealand, including Kiel Tutin, Parris Goebel, and Todd Williamson. That training set the stage for my career and helped me break into the professional dance industry.

Since then, I’ve had the privilege of performing alongside major artists on some of the biggest stages. My first tour was with 50 Cent on his Final Lap Tour, and most recently, I performed on the Juicy Fest Tour with Jeremih. I specialize in commercial dance, performing for artists, music videos, live shows, and tours, but I also have a passion for teaching and mentoring. Now, I’m moving to Los Angeles to pursue bigger dreams and opportunities in dance, pushing myself to the next level in my career.

What sets me apart is my work ethic, versatility, and ability to bring raw emotion and storytelling into my performances. I take pride in being adaptable to different styles, choreographers, and creative visions while always delivering with intensity and authenticity. Beyond performing, I want to inspire the next generation of dancers especially Māori and other indigenous kids to believe in themselves and chase their dreams. Representation is important, and I hope my journey shows that no dream is too big if you’re willing to put in the work.

What I’m most proud of isn’t just my accomplishments but also the relationships I’ve built with talented dancers from all over the world. Being able to create with them and share our passion for dance is something truly special. Most of all, getting to perform on big stages with artists I grew up listening to is a dream come true it’s a reminder of why I started and why I continue pushing myself to new heights.

At the end of the day, I want people to know that if something makes you happy and you truly enjoy it, you should find a way to turn it into your career. No dream is too big, and with passion, dedication, and belief in yourself, anything is possible.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

In my view, society can best support artists and creatives by recognizing the value of art and investing in opportunities that allow creatives to thrive. Too often, the arts are seen as a passion rather than a legitimate career path, but creativity fuels industries, inspires communities, and shapes culture.

One of the biggest ways to support artists is through funding and resources. Whether it’s grants, sponsorships, or government support, creatives need financial backing to develop their craft and sustain their careers. More accessible funding for dancers, musicians, filmmakers, and other artists would allow them to focus on their work without the constant stress of financial instability.

Another key factor is education and mentorship. Schools and communities should encourage creative careers just as much as they do traditional jobs. More dance programs, creative workshops, and mentorship opportunities would help the next generation see that their artistic dreams are possible. Having access to experienced professionals who can guide and inspire young creatives is life-changing.

Unions also play a huge role in protecting creatives and ensuring they get paid what they deserve. Too often, dancers and other artists are undervalued and underpaid, and without industry standards, many end up working for less than they’re worth. It’s important for dancers to accept only paid jobs that reflect their value. If people continue taking free work for exposure especially in the dance community, then companies and clients will keep choosing less experienced creatives willing to work for free, instead of paying professionals what they deserve. If we want to raise industry standards, we need to collectively stop accepting underpaid or unpaid work and demand proper compensation.

Representation also plays a huge role in a thriving creative ecosystem. Artists from all backgrounds should have the opportunity to tell their stories and be seen on major platforms. When we uplift diverse voices, we enrich the creative industry as a whole.

Lastly, society can support creatives by simply engaging with and appreciating their work. Buying tickets to performances, streaming music, attending art exhibitions, sharing content small actions make a huge difference. The more people actively support the arts, the more creatives can sustain their work and continue contributing to the world in meaningful ways.

Ultimately, a thriving creative ecosystem requires recognition, investment, and a shift in mindset. When artists are valued and supported, they have the power to inspire, innovate, and bring people together in ways nothing else can.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to connect with people through movement and storytelling. Dance is such a powerful form of expression, it goes beyond words and allows me to share emotions, experiences, and energy with an audience. I’m such an emotional person, and I love being able to make people feel something when I dance. Whether it’s joy, nostalgia, or deep emotion, knowing that my movement can touch someone is an incredible feeling.

I also love inspiring the younger generation, especially those who may not see many people like them in this industry. If my journey can show them that anything is possible, then I know I’m doing something right. At the same time, I love sharing my art with my followers who come from more corporate backgrounds. Dance has a way of bringing people together, no matter what industry they’re in, and it’s amazing to connect with people who appreciate the artistry even if they aren’t dancers themselves.

Another thing that makes this journey so rewarding is the relationships I’ve built with other dancers and creatives from all over the world. Being able to create, share, and grow alongside people who are just as passionate about dance as I am is something truly special. Even working alongside musicians that i looked up to growing up.There’s an unspoken bond between artists, and the energy that comes from collaborating with like-minded individuals is unmatched.

On a personal level, I find fulfillment in pushing my own boundaries physically, mentally, and creatively. Every performance, every rehearsal, every challenge helps me evolve, and seeing that growth in myself is deeply rewarding. Most of all, I love making my family proud. They’ve supported me through this journey, and knowing that they see me chasing my dreams and succeeding makes everything even more meaningful.

I’ve worked hard to turn my passion into my career, and knowing that I’m living my dream while also inspiring others to chase theirs is what makes it all worth it.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kodeearbuthnott?igsh=MXd5OGVpMGxpdnJ4ZQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Other: tik tok: itskokolicious

Image Credits

photos taken by Mia Paranihi