Today we’d like to introduce you to Zoey Banell
Hi Zoey, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My name is Zoey Banell, and I have been blessed with the gift of dance since the age of three. From that early age, dance has been a constant in my life—a source of joy, discipline, and inspiration. While I am trained in various styles, including jazz, modern, and contemporary, ballet has always held a special place in my heart.
My journey as a ballet dancer has opened countless doors, allowing me to perform on stages I once dreamed of and shaping me into the artist I am today. Now, as both a Director and Ballet Instructor for numerous studios and productions, I am honored to give back to the performing arts community. Sharing my passion and knowledge with others is not just my role but my purpose.
I look forward to continuing this journey, stepping into new spaces both locally and internationally, and spreading the love of dance to all those I meet.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Ballet is a challenge—a beautiful and demanding art form that requires unwavering dedication, hard work, and consistency. It calls for mindfulness on every level, both mentally and physically.
As a young Black woman in ballet, I have also learned how to navigate a predominantly white space with grace and resilience. I am deeply grateful to have been surrounded by kind, fair, and welcoming individuals throughout my journey, which has made this path all the more meaningful.
It fills me with joy to witness more Black women today excelling in and embracing this art form. Their success is a testament to how far ballet is evolving, and I am proud to be part of this important movement.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
In the world of creative and performing arts, I wear many hats: Director, Instructor, Choreographer, and Author. Yet, what I am most proud of is the way I navigate this journey—with grace and unwavering faith. It is my passion, fueled by God’s provision, that truly sets me apart.
I am deeply blessed to do what I love and to have discovered my purpose at such a young age. This calling is a gift I never take for granted, and each day my passion for it only grows stronger.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
If God gave it to you, use it! It’s never too late to follow your passion, and obedience opens doors you never imagined. You’d be amazed at how God will bless your yes!
Looking back, I wish I had fully understood the importance of staying the course. Trials and detours are inevitable, but I’ve learned that all things work together when you remain steadfast on the path God has for you. If you stumble, rise again. Because one day, you won’t just walk—you’ll fly.
One of my favorite quotes is, “Just like the butterfly, I too will awaken at my own time.” Your journey is uniquely yours. Comparison will only steal your joy, so embrace who you are. That’s all you need to succeed.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoeybanell/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@zoeybanell
