By: Larissa Castelluber in collaboration with Syrah ScottWorld renown performing artist, choreographer, art director, and overall visionary Latonya Swann, is creating a MASSIVE buzz in the entertainment industry. Having performed with mega superstars such as Alicia Keys, Gwen Stefani, Shakira, NeYo, Lady Gaga, Beyonce, Pharrell Williams, Cassie, Dawn Richard, Calvin Harris, and Enrique Iglesias, at a young age this super-talent extraordinaire is destined for greatness. We had the chance to interview LaTonya and ask her about her journey to success. Though she’s had many shortcomings throughout her life, LaTonya has triumphantly overcome what some might consider to be a never ending story in the highly-competitive world of entertainment. LaTonya chose the elevator going up and made it her duty to push to her fullest potential. The madness and redundancies of auditions can sometimes have a negative effect on a person. And being told “no” hundreds of times can lower one’s self-esteem. This never bothered LaTonya, one bit. She just kept working on her talent to become the best dancer on the stage. Going against the grain and building her name in entertainment is ONLY one goal that she set to accomplish among many others. Here’s what she had to say about why she embraces herself. The passion: “When I was young, my mom thought it was important that I do as many extracurricular activities as she could afford so that I would never become a negative product of my environment. So I did a lot of different activities, basketball, swimming, cheerleading, and more. But when I found dance at age 12, it just evoked a more fulfilling glow that I wanted to make brighter and brighter. The feeling I got when I danced is what inspired me to focus my heart on it.” Dancers have to show the willpower of persistency and sustain the courage to compete with many other heavy hitters within the dance world. LaTonya built a name from the ground up and continues to move mountains. It is not only a physical struggle but an upmost mental one. To maintain balance in a life that involves much traveling, the spotlight and having your support system to catch you when you fall, to LaTonya, it was much more than titles. “Most of my obstacles in life have been financial. Neighborhoods and schools were not sufficiently equipped to handle my hunger for knowledge, and I didn’t have the option of moving to a safer, wealthier school district, We almost never had money for team gear, fees, and the like, but somehow, I never missed an opportunity. With the help of my mom especially, my family, teachers, and coaches I was able to reach every goal. As an adult I’ve managed to cram 40 years of experience into 24 years of life, creating and running businesses that others don’t get to until their 30s-40’s; and have been doing it since the age of 14. Learning how to protect myself financially, emotionally, and legally have been obstacles turned into lessons learned. This has allowed me to stay true to myself, my creativity and individuality while pursuing my ultimate goal in an industry where sometimes talent gets overlooked by makeup and resumes. My work ethic and quick learning curve has allowed me to build up a legacy and brand that can and will perpetuate in the Dance and Entertainment Industry.” |
In an arena where there are thousands that are willing to give it their all for the same dream, there are times where you want to give up. Emotions are high and the journey is sometimes unexplainable. At times like these all you can thank are the people that keep you in check and help support your dream. “Ultimately I want to create a career that is a marriage of Visual Production/Design, and Advertising. I want to direct and create music videos and commercials, tours, and ad campaigns; basically, the visuals that sell a product. I also desire to create a platform that perpetuates positive self-worth, self-awareness/knowledge, and self-cultivation in urban/minority youth.” Sometimes you have to recognize your achievements to be able to grow from them. Taking things one step at a time and celebrating successes no matter how small is a way towards motivating yourself to grow even more. “I embrace myself because my achievements are proof and validation that I can be myself and aspire to infinity despite where I come from, what I look like or believe in.” |
LaTonya, thank you for believing in #BeYou. We appreciate your love and support! You are truly an inspiration to many! “…I had to search far and wide, talk to my mom for hours, research and more for the type of knowledge and support that molded me into the confident, smart, passionate, creative individual I am today. I had family members and friends that always stood behind my eccentric ways and pushed me to greater heights. #BeYou is all of that wrapped into one outlet. And I will always support that. Passing on the inspiration and knowledge it takes to foster success in the youth.” Remember it is perfectly acceptable to follow your dreams regardless of how far it may seem to you at the moment. Anything in this world is possible if you persist towards that goal. On February 22, 2015, LaTonya released a self-choreographed video, “They Don’t Care About Us”. It is social commentary on Police Brutality and the value of minorities in America, and features celebrated and professional dancers Brent Curtis, AR Catarina, Neico Joy, Minor T, Alonzo Chester, Justin Porter, John Origines, Q Anthony, and David Sincere and LaTonya Swann. Please support and check out her video: THEY DON’T CARE ABOUT US #BlackLivesMatter To take a look at more of her work click LaTonya’s Video Reel You may also visit her Twitter and Instagram. |
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We want your input! Email thebeyoucampaign@gmail.com to send feedback, sponsor, or contribute articles for our next newsletter, to be released in April 2015. Thank you for all of your love and support. Together let’s create the best YOU! Kind Regards, |
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