Today we’d like to introduce you to Alison Foy.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Alison. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Born and raised on the island of St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands, I started my journey as a Mocko Jumbie Stilt Dancer as a teenager. Taught the art by my late uncle and Master Mocko Jumbie Hugo Moolenaar, Sr., dancing has been my passion ever since. I have performed in several countries throughout my career and many types of events, including private parties, weddings, cultural celebrations, churches, music videos and many more. When I discovered a lack of authentic Caribbean entertainment in the Atlanta market, I formed Caribbean Dancers of Atlanta. This art is a true display of African culture with a Caribbean flare and I look forward to spreading the culture and art for many years to come.
Has it been a smooth road?
There has been a lot of learning experiences along the way. The biggest lesson being learning how to truly value my talent. Many people have approached me (and still does) requesting free or discounted performances in exchange for exposure. It certainly took a while for me to learn to say no and stick to my ideals as far as the value to place on such a unique talent. This is not to say that I have not supported particular causes near and dear to my heart, but oftentimes, the requests are simply because the event is not a paid event.
My advice to other women just starting their journey is to start small. That has worked for me. Know that true success rarely happens overnight, and there will be several learning opportunities along the way. Follow your gut and value your talent! Keep it professional, be on TIME (if not early) and always maintain great relationships with clients. Treat the janitor the same as the CEO! It may also help to find a mentor (depending on your business) to offer advice.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Caribbean Dancers of Atlanta – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
Caribbean Dancers of Atlanta is currently the only Atlanta-based Caribbean Dance company offering Caribbean dancing, mocko jumbie stilt dancing, steel pan players and DJ services. I am most proud of our authenticity as it relates to caribbean dancing and the art of mocko jumbie stilt dancing. The majority of performers are from the Caribbean, a country in Africa or have Caribbean or African roots and we use all types of music including soca, calypso, Latin, Afrobeats, Reggaeton and Reggae for our performances.
Often it feels as if the media, by and large, is only focused on the obstacles faced by women, but we feel it’s important to also look for the opportunities. In your view, are there opportunities that you see that women are particularly well positioned for?
Woman are well-positioned for any opportunity, I feel like once we are offering the best product or service for the price, and can show that it is worth it, people will support the business. It also doesn’t hurt to be a subject matter expert, as it will give us an edge in the industry, not just as it related to male competition, but in general.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.caribbeandancers.com
- Phone: 770-841-3377
- Email: caribdanceatl@yahoo.com
- Instagram: caribdanceatl
- Facebook: @caribdanceatl
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