The 31-year-old has made it her mission to be the role model she wishes she had as a child.
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""I thought it was impossible for African American dancers to have a leading role," she said. "It motivated me more to keep going."
In 2017, Holland created Chocolate Ballerina Company to provide children and adults of color with a space to learn high-level dance skills at a low cost. Monthly classes are offered for free while weekly classes range between $50 and $150 per month.
Today, auditions were held for children and teens to become pre-professional dancers with the Chocolate Ballerina Company's Advanced Prima Ballerina Assoutlas.
"It's just so much fun. I really want to be a dancer in my future," said 12-year-old Layla Harris-Fisher. "I'm learning new combos, new tips to help me balance better and probably have to work really, really hard to get there."
The auditions were held with a professional twist, encouraging dancers to provide a headshot and resume upon arrival. According to Holland, it's part of a long-term plan to make dancers ready for the big stage.
"We want them to get into the best high schools,the best colleges, so that they can move and have a fulfilled life," she said.
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These dancers may also have the opportunity to perform at community events. Just last month, Chocolate Ballerina Company made headlines with the first 'Nutcracker Dipped in Chocolate' performance.
It was a major step forward in Holland's vision to help city children see more individuals who look like them take center stage.
"It brings me to tears sometimes because I was once in that position where I thought nobody saw me," she said. "If they know that I see them, then they'll show me exactly who they are."
To learn more about Chocolate Ballerina Company and their free dance classes, visit their website.
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