INTERVIEW: Multi Genre Dancer Sofiya

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Hi Sofiya, thank you for sitting down with us today! What have you been up to recently?

Currently busy studying. That has been keeping me busy most weekdays. In July, I worked on a Youth project in which I spoke to young people about my own experiences growing up and how dance helped me deal with my emotions, channelling them in a positive way by giving me the space to express how I feel. These young kids have come from different backgrounds, many have or are taking drugs to deal with their issues. The project was to show them that they can use dance, music, art and other forms of expression as therapy. They took part in a day of talent. Showing the general public, family and friends what their talents are. The space allowed them to express themselves and do what they enjoy and show them that life is what you make it so let’s not waste it! I have been doing some charity modelling and I am continually practising for upcoming dance performances. Currently I am performing at a couple of weddings and am in the process of organising an event that will raise money for Unicef.

How did you first get into dancing?

I started dancing at the age of three and participated in and won competitions as a solo dancer. At the age of five I was given an opportunity (through family friends) to train as a classical Indian dancer with Sree Shankar, a classical dancer from India (who at the time was teaching in London).  Alongside this, I taught myself other genres, such as contemporary, Bollywood, street dance, belly dance and fusion. I mainly choreograph my own dances so they not only show my style and ability but are also personal to me.

You specialise in a number of different styles of dance including Street, Belly Dance, and Fusion. What caused you to go into all these different styles?

I found music that I liked. Some songs I related to and others were about mixing lots of genres together. I grew up with lots of different musical influences (different music, artists, cultures) so I was aware of different music and dance. My mother was also a dancer and danced to various styles. I enjoyed watching different styles being performed and imaged how different styles could be mixed together to make something different and unique. This also represents the fact that I come from a very multicultural family. The mix of genres relates to my multiculturalism, the goal to perform what I am passionate about by challenging myself and trying new things.

As well as dancing, we heard you’re looking at getting into music, who are some of your biggest influences in the music world?

My biggest influences are people that have a story to tell. We have all been through something and I find that we become silent ambassadors due to our experiences in life. Both Mark Ronson and Halsey’s stories have many similarities to my childhood experiences.  Therefore, we have a lot in common and that is why I have a lot of admiration for them. Justin Bieber’s songs are full of meaning. Listening to the lyrics in his songs such as 2U he talks about love and two souls being together. I performed a contemporary dance to this song for an engagement party.

Other influences are-

Selena Gomez, Ariana Grande, Shakira, Becky G, Sean Paul, Camila Cabello, Drake, Chris Brown, Billie Eilish, Ed Sheeran.

What would be your dream collaboration?

My dream would be to collaborate with Mark Ronson and Halsey. Actually, I would love to collaborate with every artist because they all have different styles and I like to experience different things and challenge myself.

What is one thing about you that people wouldn’t expect?

That I am currently taking vocal lessons and practising cover songs which I hope to upload soon.

What’s next for Sofiya?

Hopefully a collaboration with an artist. More dancing, singing, studying and working on my charity projects.

Where can people find you online?

Instagram – sc.1258