Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in performing arts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Robin Olive, Executive Director of Straight Up Abilities, located in Venice, CA, USA.
What's your organization, and who are your members?
Straight Up Abilities is a 501c3 Non Profit that teaches dance and performing arts to students with disabilities. We believe that no matter your ability, you should be able to live out your dreams. Our students have performed with the Royal Ballet, at DisneyWorld in Florida, for Special Olympics World Games and have proved that there really are no limits.
Tell us about yourself
I have been a trained dancer since I was just 3 years old. I've loved movement ever since I can remember. In adulthood, I expanded my movement knowledge to martial arts, flow movement arts, and then working with students with disabilities. I met an amazing woman, Zina Bethune, who introduced and guided me in a world I didn't really know existed. Zina started the first participatory program for dancers with disabilities in 1980 called Infinite Dreams. Her program touched my heart, and I haven't looked back since. When she passed away in 2012, I knew I could continue her work, and it just keeps growing. The sheer amount of love and joy I receive from my students and their families is enough to keep me going each day.
What's your biggest accomplishment as an organization?
Our company has been steadily evolving since it was created in 2016, and for that, I feel grateful. That is more students and families getting services that they really need. These individuals are often overlooked in our society, and my goal is to change that for everyone. The more inclusive our World becomes, the better we all are.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being an organization?
The hardest part of running a business is you never stop working. All day, every day, there is just so very much to do.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow an organization today?
- Make sure you love what you do.
- Make sure you have a great support system.
- Never give up.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.straightupabilities.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/straightupabilities
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/straightupabilities/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Str8upabilities
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/straightupabilities/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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