By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
Tecoma resident Meagan Volta has been nominated for the Community Group Award –which recognises groups that make a significant contribution to their community.
Ms Volta said the studio has been part of the community and building a strong sense of community right from the start.
“I’m thrilled to be nominated because it’s indicating that I’m fulfilling our vision and that is allowing kids to dance, make friends, and have fun, and as an organisation, we’re dedicated to fostering a strong sense of community and being an integral part of our local area,” she said.
The 37-year-old dance-enthusiast has been teaching dancing for over 20 years and she said mental health and inclusivity is a high priority for her and her team.
“At our dance school, we try and make it a really safe and inclusive place for all,” she said.
“We strive to keep our prices affordable for families, particularly during these challenging times, we often don’t require a compulsory uniform, and we prioritise body positivity—ensuring that kids aren’t forced to wear uncomfortable clothing and all of our concert costumes are tailored to fit children’s sizes, providing them with the confidence they need.”
‘For the Love of Dance’ studio was founded in 2019 to assist all individuals in developing confidence, harnessing creativity, enhancing fitness, and creating connections with the community.
“Our studio is much more than just dancing, while offering engaging and inclusive fun for both children and adults, our mission is to foster self-confidence in a nurturing and supportive environment for everyone,” Ms Volta said.
There are currently five regional locations operating across Victoria, including Tecoma, Olinda, Macclesfield, Cockatoo and Emerald – each dedicated to making a positive impact on their local communities
“We offer classes for all ages and styles, starting from 18 months old, though we’ve had children as young as 13 or 14 months join in, on the other end of the spectrum, our oldest dancer is currently 63 years old,” she said.
Ms Volta enjoyed dancing since she was merely three years old.
“I’ve always loved dancing, obviously, I went to uni and completed my bachelor’s degree in science and majoring astrophysics, and I was teaching dancing while studying at uni,” she said.
“I started teaching dancing after one of my friends daughters started dancing when I was on maternity leave with my second child, and she was talking about what was happening at that dance school where I taught, which didn’t sound very positive, she was telling me how three-year olds’ were practicing putting makeup on and wearing all these tiny clothes.”
“It didn’t sit well with me, so I started teaching her in my lounge room and that led me to this.”
She said teaching dancing is a dream come true.
“It’s amazing, you tell kids do what you love, and it keeps growing and growing because it seems to be resonating with many people – oh it’s absolute dream come true,” she said.
The studio will celebrate this achievement with a dance party for both staff and dancers.
Nominations be will be judged start of next month, and winners will be announced on Friday 13 December 2024.
