We’re looking forward to introducing you to Dominique . Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Dominique , we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day are all about setting the tone. I start strong with a gym session to get my energy up, followed by a vanilla latte that’s basically my morning ritual. It’s the perfect mix of movement and motivation.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Dominique, and I’ve been a dance instructor for the past five years. I grew up with a strong foundation in jazz through my training at Brandon School of Dance Arts. I also attended a performing arts middle school and was on the dance team throughout high school, all while continuing my training at Brandon School of Dance Arts . I was dancing both in school and after school, and honestly, it’s always been a huge part of my life. I’m trained in both ballet and jazz, and for me, dance has always been more than just movement. It’s my outlet, my joy, and the space where I feel most grounded.
While I was in college, I had the amazing opportunity to dance professionally for the Tampa Bay arena football team. That experience gave me a whole new perspective on performance, teamwork, and the kind of confidence that comes from doing what you love. It was especially meaningful for me because, in my day-to-day life, I’m actually pretty reserved. Dance allows me to tap into a more confident version of myself, the one that comes alive the moment the music starts.
After college, I started teaching dance to bring more balance into my life while working a corporate job. What began as a creative outlet quickly grew into something much bigger—teaching became my true mission. I felt especially drawn to working with women, particularly adult beginners who never had the chance to train when they were younger.
That passion inspired me to create Heels by NiqueDance, a space where dancers of all levels can come together to move, grow, and feel empowered. My goal is to build a welcoming environment where everyone feels seen, supported, and free to just have fun. There’s nothing better than watching someone leave class with a smile, standing taller and feeling more confident than when they walked in.
I’m so thankful my mom made many sacrifices to invest in my dancing as I was growing up. I understand that’s not everyone’s experience, which is why I love helping others reconnect with their bodies and bring out their inner child through dance.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
Before I ever realized it myself, my dad saw something special in me. When I was younger, he would say, “I can see you teaching dance or even owning your own studio someday.” At the time, I thought he was crazy because all I wanted was to be the performer, the one in the spotlight, shining bright. Teaching felt like a totally different path, one I wasn’t ready to embrace.
Looking back now, I realize he saw something deeper. He saw the part of me that could lift others up and make a real difference. It wasn’t just him; my family kept encouraging me, reminding me that I had a gift for teaching and inspiring people. Even though I was hesitant at first, their belief in me gave me the push I needed.
When I finally gave teaching a chance, everything changed. I fell in love with being the one behind the scenes, creating a space where women could feel confident, empowered, and joyful. Now I’m so grateful I listened because teaching has become one of the most rewarding and fulfilling parts of my life.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I will tell my younger self that “Your superpower is your authenticity”. Once you feel comfortable being who you are , you unlock a whole new kind of power. I use my authenticity every time I teach a class, create something new, and show up as myself. That is what has built my brand, being who I truly am. I would tell my younger self that your differences are actually what make you stand out and set you apart in the best way possible. I always encourage imperfection during class because no one is perfect and I find that beautiful.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
I’d say yes and no. Outside of class, I’m more of an observant ambivert and not usually super extra or outgoing unless I’m really comfortable. When I go out, I don’t even really dance. I’m more of a watcher. I carry a quiet confidence most of the time, but once I step into the studio to teach, a whole different side of me comes alive. My Sasha Fierce side shines through with a bold, extroverted confidence. I get spicy and totally in my zone.
If you check out my personal page, you might think I’m way more outgoing than I actually am outside of class. Teaching brings out that loud, fun, shining version of me. So yes, that public side is real. It’s just a little more amplified when I’m doing what I love.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
I think people sometimes misunderstand what my legacy is really about. For me, it is not about the spotlight or attention. It is about the incredible joy I get from helping others through teaching. Watching people grow, lift themselves up, and truly shine is what drives me. Sure, I love it when my content comes out just right, but what really matters is the impact I leave on the people I have worked with.
I hear so many beautiful stories from students about how amazing they felt after class, and that’s what I want to be known for even more than my talent. Making people feel confident, happy, and empowered..that’s the real magic for me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://heelsbyniquedance.as.me/
- Instagram: HeelsbyNiquedance
Image Credits
All classes are filmed by Tony Instagram: @_aftaours_
