Eastridge #WomenWhoLead Series
Princess Ryan
Founder of Kidz Groove
Tell us about your journey and how you began?
I was born in Cebu City and was raised in a small village in Tag-os, Southern Leyte, Philippines. Ever since I was a little girl, I was very active and I couldn’t stop moving, running, jumping and climbing but dancing caught my interest and it challenged my curiosity and creativity which led me to become who I am today. It gave me the confidence to dream big and it turned my world around. I became a model, celebrity dancer, actress and I worked for top TV networks in Manila. I also represented my country in an international beauty pageant and traveled around the world because of dancing.
What inspired you to begin dancing?
I wasn’t a born dancer and that’s how I realized that everyone has the ability to dance but not everyone invests their time to introduce it to empower the youth. Dance instantly makes you feel alive, confident and happy which is what we all need to be mentally, emotionally and physically healthy. This is WHY I created Kidz Groove. For the well-being of kids; they will be our future leaders and will help make the world a better place. It’s for all kids and the kids at heart.
What gives you the motivation to move your mission forward?
Sometimes I wonder, “What if I never discovered dance?” I would have never gained the confidence that I have now because of it. I wouldn’t be who I am today. When a child’s creativity is not encouraged or developed, their self-confidence takes a hit starting at a young age and there’s a chance that they’ll never discover or stop exploring what they’re good at. Helping kids discover their unique abilities and pushing them to dream bigger is my biggest motivation.
What purpose do you wish Kidz Groove to serve?
Kidz Groove is fully committed in helping kids worldwide in gaining self-confidence by making them ambassadors of the brand and training them not just to dance but to teach and inspire other kids to be like them.
CONNECT with Princess & Kidzgroove on Instagram @kidz_groove
The Eastridge Women Who Lead is an 8-part series featuring the extraordinary women who are leaders in the East Side San Jose Community and pillars of Eastridge Community Programming. For more empowering content, including in-person workshops and speakers, join us for CosmeCon 2019 on April 6th. More information here. Love this story? Please consider sharing on social media or attending an event to support!