The Serendipitous Journey into Dance: Karima's Path from Accidental Student to Passionate Teacher

A Surprising Start in Dance

Life often has a way of steering us in directions we never anticipated, and for Karima, this could not be more true. Dance was not something she initially sought out or felt a particular calling towards; it was more of a happy accident that she stumbled upon. But sometimes, those accidental discoveries end up becoming the most cherished parts of our lives.

Hailing from Vancouver BC, Karima was introduced to the world of dance in a way that was both unexpected and serendipitous. It all started one day when her mother decided to enroll her in a dance class at the age of 21. There was no elaborate plan or lifelong dream behind this decision, she initially saw these classes as a temporary distraction, something to fill her time before she moved on to other pursuits.

However, as the saying goes, life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans. Friends started signing her up for more dance classes, and before long, Karima found herself continuously drawn back into the dance studio. It was almost as if dance had chosen her rather than the other way around.

A Blossoming Passion

What began as a casual involvement gradually transformed into a full-blown passion. The more Karima danced, the more she fell in love with the art form. It wasn’t just about the movements or the rhythms; it was about how dance made her feel. 

The turning point came when an instructor asked Karima to take over teaching - a transformative experience that she credits as the moment she became a true professional dancer. She started dedicating more time to practice, honing her skills, and immersing herself in different styles and techniques.

 

Significant Moments

Karima's dance journey has been marked by several significant milestones. Traveling to Cairo and witnessing the exceptional skills of international dancers was a humbling experience that made her realize, "I'm a baby. These people are out of this world." The eye-opening experience helped her realize the extent of her own potential.

Another pivotal moment was winning first place in a hobbyist competition in Toronto last year. While the victory itself was meaningful, Karima says it was more about the realization that she could no longer consider herself a mere hobbyist. "It pretty much drove me to say, now this is the time in which you're no longer a hobbyist. Now you have to keep going."

The final transformative experience was when she began teaching. “A university professor once said, ‘You really never learn until you teach,’” Karima recalls. “That was a major turning point for me. Teaching not only deepened my understanding but also marked the beginning of my professional dance career.”

Teaching Methods and Inspirations

Karima's dedication to teaching dance is largely inspired by her loyal and supportive students. "The people that stayed by my side, for so many years, are the only reason why I keep doing it," she explains. Recognizing her own late start in the field, Karima is passionate about nurturing the next generation of dancers.

In her approach to teaching, Karima emphasizes the importance of understanding her students' individual needs and learning styles. She provides alternatives, personalized explanations, and a methodical approach to ensure each student's success. “I get to know my students on a personal level and provide alternatives based on their needs,” she says. “For example, I tailor my explanations to fit different learning styles—whether they need detailed, technical instruction or a more fluid approach.”

Current Projects

Today, Karima is juggling an impressive array of projects and performances. She is preparing for an upcoming competition in Toronto and developing her own choreographies. She is also working towards her long-term goal of opening a cultural center that offers dance, theater, and other artistic pursuits to provide a supportive environment for young artists to thrive.

Balancing Act

Balancing the demands of performing, teaching, and personal life is a challenge Karima navigates daily. “I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance,” she notes. “However, I’m still learning to manage my time better and take care of my health. It’s a constant balancing act.”

Continuing Growth

Karima's own growth as a dancer and teacher is fueled by a relentless pursuit of knowledge. She continues to take classes, workshops, and engage in cross-training to expand her skills and deepen her understanding of the art form. Quoting Oxana Bazaeva "anything that is done at a professional level is not natural," Karima stresses the importance of strengthening the body through various dance and fitness disciplines. 

Advice for Aspiring Dancers

Karima’s advice to those considering a career in dance is simple yet profound: “Take it seriously from the start. Learn from everyone, ask questions, and never be afraid to revisit the basics. The foundation is crucial—it’s what will make you stand out and truly excel in your dance career.”

A Life Enriched by Dance

Looking back, Karima marvels at the unexpected twists and turns that led her to where she is today. Dance was never in her original plans, but it has become one of the most enriching and fulfilling parts of her life. It has brought her joy, purpose, and a sense of community that she cherishes deeply.

Karima's journey is a beautiful reminder that sometimes the most meaningful paths are the ones we never set out to take. Her story shows us the power of embracing the unexpected and finding joy in the opportunities that life presents. We are delighted to highlight her as our Teacher of the Month and invite you to join her classes for an exceptionally rewarding experience!