Hub Member: Rebekah's Dance Academy

Tell us how you started the business?

I had the idea of what I wanted to do, but unfortunately, I did not have the funding at the time to get started. I came across the 'Barriers To Start Up' grant which I applied for and, thankfully, received. Through the 'Barriers To Start Up' grant application process I received a business mentor (in the Enterprise Hub) who was invaluable! I turned to her when I needed advice and support. As part of the grant application process, I also attended an online business seminar which was incredibly helpful and very motivating.

Congratulations again on securing the grant! Now that you’ve set out on your business journey, what is your proudest moment so far?

Being successful in my grant application was definitely one, because it was confirmation that I had a good idea and a solid business model. It also meant others saw my potential, and this was really encouraging as I work to build a lasting career, here in my local area which I love, and where I can give back to my local community. I’ve learned a lot along the way. If I did this all over again, I’d do more research into marketing strategies and websites much sooner in the process.

Building a business is all about the learning! Looking to the future, do you have any big plans in place?

I want to build a successful, well-known business that brings joy, confidence and freedom of creative expression to the children of North Wales, and I am now growing to expand this to adults as well. In the future I would like to open my own dance studio! That would be fantastic, to be able to broaden the opportunities available on Anglesey.

Do you use Welsh in your business? Has this helped you?

I do, I speak both Welsh and English fluently, and the majority of my workshops are bilingual. Using Welsh has allowed me to reach and teach a wider range of children and young people, and to introduce dance to groups I may not have otherwise been able to. I specialise in Street and Hip-Hop dancing which is (in my experience) usually taught through the medium of the English language. It brings me great joy to be able to teach it in Welsh.

Being part of the community and helping others seems to be a big driver for your business. Is there any advice you’d give to other businesses?

Discover your own personal brand and use your individualism to your advantage! Keep in mind that there will always be new challenges, regardless of where you are at in your journey. Don't let them dishearten you, use them to your advantage and allow them to help you continue to learn and grow. Allow yourself to rest – this may sound strange but resting can be as important as working! And of course, don’t be afraid to make mistakes, this helps you take more chances and achieve things you otherwise wouldn’t. Learn and grow from them, it’s all trial and error.

Excellent! We have to ask; how has the Enterprise Hub supported you?

By keeping me informed about business seminar opportunities, keeping me up to date with news and updates, and providing me with a business mentor who has helped me and provided me with advice, support, and encouragement every step of the way. I have benefitted from attending your business seminars, where I’ve been introduced to some wonderful marketing and business experts.

The Enterprise Hub is part Funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government.