We had the good fortune of connecting with Nina-Nicole Cockrell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nina-Nicole, what are you inspired by?
I love finding inspiration everywhere that I can. From my family, to friends, art, peers, film, books, mentors, and music. But where I feel that I gather the most inspiring energy is simply being surrounded by other dancers, watching everyone in their element, supported & surrounded by each other’s energy. I love being inspired by passion and creativity! Also, watching some of my favorite figures and artists I admire, helps me find inspiration too.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve been dancing since I was 3-years-old, it’s been my everything for as long as I can remember. At around 8-years-old I decided that I really wanted to pursue ballet full-time, and I’ve been dancing ever since. It hasn’t always been a smooth journey but I love it so much. It’s guided me into many ways to express my creativity, and created so many incredible opportunities for me. I feel so grateful to have been able to meet the most wonderful people, and have had the best experiences on my journey so far, because of dance. Alongside my dream of a professional ballet career, I have always had aspirations to pursue ways to innovate and improve life for dancers. I aspire to help people who want to pursue or learn about ballet but lack accessibility, as well as create a community and space to collaborate with artists who are looking to make a positive impact. I also love sharing my love for ballet through social media, being able to connect with others and helping new audiences discover ballet, brings me so much joy. I love anything creative involving the arts, and I am looking to take risks, forge a new path, and create new opportunities. I am so excited for what’s ahead!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love Los Angeles, born and raised here! There are so many wonderful spots and experiences to have. A few of my recommendations to visit would be – spend a day at Malibu or Topanga Beach, and enjoy a live performance at the Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for the Performing Arts, or The Music Center. On the weekends check out the Malibu or Melrose Farmers Market, for some fun shopping experiences visit Melrose Trading Post, The Grove, or Topanga Vintage Market. Take a day trip to Catalina Island. Also, there are so many wonderful scenic hikes here, and for food/drinks a few of my favorite spots are: Sunlife Organics, Joan’s On Third, Duke’s, Sage Plant-Based Bistro, Cafe Gratitude, Chaumont Vegan, Urth Cafe, and Malibu Farm.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My parents have made the biggest impact in my life, constantly supporting and encouraging me, and making great sacrifices to help me pursue my passions. As well would love to mention (@dmitrikulevclassicalballet)! I am so grateful for the guidance, support, and encouraging environment of DKCBA. Training with DKCBA had such a positive impact on my journey, being surrounded by so many other passionate and driven individuals, and the opportunity to learn from some of the best teachers & mentors.

Website: ninanicolecockrell.com

Instagram: instagram.com/ninanicolecockrell

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nina-nicole-cockrell-5b1b231b0/

Twitter: twitter.com/nina_cockrell

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ninanicolecockrell/

Youtube: youtube.com/ninanicolecockrell

Other: The Prima Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2K7JLNgOepn6ejfk2oV9ER Email: contact@ninanicolecockrell.com

Image Credits
Photos by Eva Nys @evanysphotography and Al Ponce @alponcephoto

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