Today we’d like to introduce you to Robersy Avila Romero
Hi Robersy, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve loved music and dancing for as long as I can remember. As a toddler, I would watch dance shows on TV and beg my parents to take me so I could join in. However, such opportunities were limited in my hometown of Manto, Olancho, Honduras. When I was 10 years old, my family immigrated to the USA, and we settled in the Orange Park/Jacksonville area.
My dance journey began when I asked my parents to enroll me at a local dance studio that was advertising at my school. From the moment I stepped into my first Modern dance class, I knew I had found my passion. My first teacher, Heather Olschewske, remains a mentor to me to this day.
After graduating high school, I aspired to study dance in college, but family hardships made this difficult. As an immigrant family with language barriers, we focused on our construction business. Encouraged to pursue a more stable career, I studied Accounting and got involved in the family business. In 2015, I earned my County Certified, State Registered General Contractor License, and in 2019, I specialized further by obtaining my State Certified Roofing Contractor License.
Throughout my career in construction, my love for dance never waned. In the summer of 2017, I reconnected with dance by joining local companies like Paradigm Flux Dance Company and Cooper Morgan Dance Theatre. I also began teaching at Dansations Performing Arts Center, where I have been on the faculty for almost eight years. Through a friend, I discovered Latin Dance Companies in the area and joined La Fuerza, a New York-based Bachata team. This introduced me to the world of social dancing, Latin dance congresses, and professional artists, allowing me to refine my craft through training with established instructors across the country.
My technical training and cultural background in dance merged beautifully. Although La Fuerza Jacksonville only lasted a season and a half, I continued my journey with Salsa on2 through Tumbao Dance Company and Sakoso Dance Team, which I co-directed with fellow instructor Zack Armour. My classical training experience helped our teams excel in performances. Unfortunately, Sakoso dissolved during the Covid pandemic, but I welcomed my son, Liam, with my partner, Eugene Holley.
Post-Covid, my passion for dance rekindled. I became an ABT Certified Teacher and certified in Progressing Ballet Technique, enhancing my ability to teach young dancers. Following my certification, I was hired to teach at the Florida Ballet Jacksonville, where I remain on the faculty today.
In 2021, I reconnected with a group of dependable ladies, leading to practice sessions, choreography, and over 16 performances statewide and nationally.
Our efforts gained attention, and we decided to open Malémbe Dance Company in 2023. Our mission is to create a group of technically strong and committed dancers to enrich the Jacksonville community. Our growth has been exponential and rewarding, with 16 members and multiple classes, performance opportunities, community events, and most importantly… a fun, inviting dance family with which they can grow.
“Malémbe” means “slowly, gently” in Lingala, reflecting our belief in the importance of the journey in mastering a craft. We hope our name inspires dancers to appreciate the process and not just focus on the destination.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey has certainly not been smooth sailing. Leading two construction companies from the age of 21 was a heavy responsibility. As a young woman in an industry dominated by older men, I had to earn my respect and prove my capabilities. Many saw me as an inexperienced girl, and everyone I worked with was significantly older, including my own employees. This experience forced me to develop a tough skin and resilience, which has given me the courage to pursue my true passion: dance.
When Covid hit and I became pregnant, my body underwent dramatic changes. As a dancer, your body is your instrument, and becoming a mother was wonderful, but it came with physical challenges. I struggled mentally with my body image, having never gained so much weight or lost so much strength. My core was weakened, and I experienced significant pain in my ligaments during pregnancy and postpartum. Frankly, I was in the trenches of motherhood, feeling isolated and losing sight of who I was, especially during the pandemic.
Reconnecting with a group of supportive ladies who encouraged me to dance again post-Covid saved me in many ways. Although I still struggle with my body image and don’t feel fully recovered, the wonderful women in our Malémbe team have been incredibly kind and supportive. Their encouragement is one of the reasons I am driven to grow our dance family and give back to the community.
Currently, our challenges are more logistical, but we understand it’s part of the growing process. We’re looking for ways to expand both physically and financially. Costume and travel expenses are significant, so we’ve begun hosting fundraisers to help our company afford these necessities and put Jacksonville on the map. Balancing my time is another challenge; I need to find a way to maintain a healthy balance between teaching my young dancers, running the family business, managing the salsa dance company, and being an exemplary mom to my child.
Despite these struggles, I feel blessed to have so many things to devote my love to and wouldn’t want it any other way. My experiences in construction taught me resilience and leadership, which have been invaluable in building Malémbe Dance Company. Our dance family is a source of joy and support, and I am committed to nurturing it and giving back to the community that has given me so much.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At Malémbe Dance Company, we specialize in teaching Salsa on2, also known as Street New York Style Salsa or Mambo. We are the only company in Jacksonville that trains dancers in this distinctive style and offers opportunities beyond what our local community provides. I am incredibly proud of all our dancers, especially those who joined this season. Their dedication, effort, and energy are truly inspiring. Seeing my dancers thrive, whether in class, rehearsal, social dancing, or onstage, is the most rewarding experience. I live to watch them enjoy their journey and shine on the dance floor.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I’m naturally very shy when it comes to asking for help, but finding the right mentors requires stepping out of your comfort zone. You cannot walk through life alone. Seeking out people who inspire you and have walked the path you aim to follow, and asking them for advice, has been invaluable for me. I admire different people for various reasons and make an effort to research, contact, and learn from them as much as possible. You’ll be surprised how many people are kind and willing to help. Stay humble, and you’ll find that many will join your cause and offer support, both emotional and physical.
Pricing:
- Drop-in Lessons Monday/Wednesday $20
- 6-week Beginner Courses $75
- 5-Class Pass $75
- Private Lessons $95/hour
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.malembedanceco.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malembedanceco?igsh=MXdzYWhwbzNnbnR2dw==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089530472286&mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
Salchata Media Project
Baila Tampa
MDC
