Rising Stars: Meet Aminah Louise of Ohio

Today we’d like to introduce you to Aminah Louise.

Hi Aminah, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I first discovered belly dance in college, when I took a class as a prerequisite. I was immediately hooked. I ended up repeating the class the following year.

From there, I began studying with another teacher who invited me to perform in her student choreography project. That experience really opened the door to performing, and I’ve been dancing ever since. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to perform in a variety of settings, including variety shows, hookah lounges, restaurants, and competitions throughout Ohio and neighboring states.

I began teaching in 2018 and have been teaching consistently ever since. What started as a college class quickly grew into a passion that has become a significant part of my life.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Absolutely not. From family members not being supportive to the general public sometimes not understanding, to chronic illness there definitely have been challenges along the way.

I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in February of 2015. Learning how to navigate this chronic condition along with what works for me and my body was (and still is) a series of trial and error.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in Fusion Belly Dance,blending traditional Raqs Sharqi with elements of waving, popping, and other experimental movement concepts. I’m interested in finding ways to honor the foundations of Egyptian dance while also pushing the boundaries of what belly dance can look and feel like.

What I’m most proud of is developing a style that feels authentically my own. I love taking familiar belly dance movements and exploring them through a different lens playing with texture, musicality, isolations, and unexpected movement qualities.

I feel what sets me apart is that I’m equally interested in the technical and creative sides of dance. I want my students and audiences to see belly dance as something with a strong cultural and technical foundation, while also recognizing that there is so much room for experimentation.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I have a difficult time answering questions like this. Because what worked for me may not work for the next person, or the person after them. We all come from different upbringings and circumstances. And I feel it can be a bit disingenuous to tell someone from a different walk of life how to get started.

But I can say, there are teachers out there and doing a Google search on where to find local Bellydance teachers in your area is good place to start.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aminahlouise_cle?igsi=ZGtheTE3YWoxcngz