We had the good fortune of connecting with Iman Ayana and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Iman, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Work life balance was something that I don’t think I fully understood until the pandemic. As an artist, you are taught to work work work, keep grinding, and constantly search for opportunities, because if you can’t do it, someone else will. That is a really difficult place to live in because you end up missing so many “life” events with family and friends. Now, I’ve realized that some things are not that serious, some things can wait, and in order to do my job(s) well, I have to make time for myself.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve been a dancer forever. I’ve always loved being able to express myself through movement. So after training at the Ailey School, doing a million summer dance intensives and going to college, I was “ready” to be a professional dancer in NYC. This industry is HARD! I made my way performing in small modern dance companies for a few years before I started to expand into musical theatre. After a few musicals and tours, I am currently on tour with one of my dream shows, The Lion King. As a modern dancer first, this is a dream and it was not easy getting here (I auditioned for 5 years). That’s the thing with being a being a performer. Along with the work, consistency, and dedication, it’s also a matter of being in the right place at the right time. I am always grateful for the opportunities that come my way.

Along with performing, I found my way to another career in personal training. When I began, it was a way for me to “stay in shape”. But as I progressed, I found a love for helping people move their bodies in ways that made them feel good, strong, and confident. So after years of training and shifting to virtual teaching during the pandemic, I created my YouTube channel NamiBODY. This allowed me to connect with people who are searching for ways to stay in shape from the comfort of their homes. I want people to feel like they have an accountability workout partner without stress or judgment. Simple, fun, and effective workouts are the goal!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’ve been fortunate to have my parents and my boyfriend in my corner from the beginning. My parents always allowed and encouraged me to explore my interests and pursue what feels right from a young age. My boyfriend Erick is that PUSH. It’s funny because at times, it feels like he believes in me and what I am capable of achieving more than I do!

Instagram: iman.ayana

Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@namibody

Image Credits
@thegingerb3ardmen @mmaiworldd @leegumbs.photography @therealellisdawson

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