Julie’s Story
I was introduced to Julie through a friend of a friend who owns one of the few dance studios in Medellin, Colombia. Soul Dancers needed qualified teachers to bring dance to the children here. Julie is one of the lucky ones who received free dance lessons through a city of Medellin sponsored program to help poor children through the gift of dance. Julie now teaches for the Soul Dancers charity every Sunday at one of the orphanages and earns a wage to help her with her university education.
As I read her story I was struck by her articulation as she described her life. I was also surprised to see how she describes her life memories with fondness and joy despite her living conditions. It was in contrast to my assumptions that I had made based on the knowledge of her neighborhood, the notorious Barrio de Pablo Escobar. I also had to negotiate with the Sisters of the orphanage for a suitable time for Julie to teach on Sundays so that she could be home before dark. It is unsafe for her to walk alone at night. The reputation of her neighbourhood is one of unspeakable violence.
Through dance, Julie is on her way to transcend a life of poverty. Her life now is full of options that she would never have had otherwise. I realize that not all children who receive assistance from Soul Dancers will go on to a life and career such as Julie’s however. Julie is a model and living testimonial of the possibilities!
Soul Dancers is about giving joy and hope through dance!
This is a translated story.
Who is Julie?
I am a 23 years old girl in constant learning and growth, enjoying the dance that loves moving to the rhythm of music or silence. I feel lucky and happy about my life. I’m strong.
Where were you born and tell me about your family?
I was born in the country of Colombia in the city of Medellin on October 31, 1992. I have always lived with myRead more mother, who was responsible for helping me find what makes me happy, now that I’ve grown a little bit more I realize that this has been her greater purpose with us her daughters help us find what makes us happy and has done really well, besides looking after us and give us an example; my father is a true artist in what he does, he is a baker and is very delicately to make decorations on desserts and delicious cakes; I inherited from him the courage to take risks, from my mother the power to pursue my dreams and my sister, who is younger, 17 years old, a great strength that reminds me I’m never alone. I always thought that my family is the greatest gift that life has given me, each one of them brings many important things for my being, I feel really loved.
