We recently connected with Angela Gore Curry and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Angela , so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
“As an African American woman in yoga, I’ve had to navigate spaces where I’m often the only one in the room. This has taught me to stand firmly in my authenticity and value my unique perspective. I’ve learned to trust my inner strength and not second-guess myself, even when I’m going it alone. It’s important for me to be adaptable, not only for my own success but also to create space for others who might feel the same way. My approach is about being intentional with my energy, connecting deeply with others, and maintaining my integrity, all while making sure my work reflects my passion for empowering youth, especially those from underrepresented communities. This journey has given me the confidence to lead, knowing I bring something truly needed into the world.”
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
At ARISE Educational Services, we are all about empowering youth through the practice of yoga, mindfulness, and conflict resolution. My mission is to create spaces where young people, especially from underserved communities, can learn how to connect with themselves, manage their emotions, and grow in a supportive environment. What excites me the most about this work is seeing the transformation in the kids. Watching them shift from feeling overwhelmed or disconnected to confidently expressing themselves is truly a gift.
What makes ARISE special is that we don’t just teach yoga; we offer life skills that extend beyond the mat. The joy, the peace, the strength these young minds gain through yoga—it’s so much more than physical practice. It’s about laying the foundation for emotional resilience and self-regulation, tools they can carry with them throughout life.
Right now, I’m really excited about our upcoming Youth Yoga and Tennis Camp, where we’ll blend physical movement with mindfulness, helping kids learn the importance of both physical and mental strength. It’s a new chapter, and I can’t wait to watch our community grow!
Through everything I do, I aim to create a space where everyone, especially kids, feels seen, heard, and valued for who they truly are. That’s what ARISE is about—bringing out the best in each child, in every class, every program, and every interaction.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey, I would say the three qualities that have been most impactful are resilience, self-awareness, and a commitment to community.
Resilience has been key. There have been times when the path wasn’t clear, or the challenges felt overwhelming, but sticking with my vision and being flexible in how I achieve it has helped me overcome obstacles. I’ve learned to view setbacks as opportunities for growth, and that mindset has kept me moving forward. My advice? Stay committed to your purpose, but give yourself the grace to evolve. Things won’t always go as planned, and that’s okay—growth often happens in those unexpected moments.
Self-awareness has been another cornerstone. Knowing who I am, what I stand for, and what I need to continue growing has shaped the way I approach every opportunity. I’ve learned the importance of checking in with myself regularly—making sure I’m staying true to my values and not compromising for the sake of convenience. To those just starting out: take the time to reflect on what matters to you. Understanding your “why” will guide you through the hardest days.
Lastly, a commitment to community has been central to my work. It’s not just about what I do—it’s about how I impact the lives of others. The connections I’ve made along the way, whether with colleagues, students, or families, have been a constant source of inspiration and growth. My advice? Build relationships and nurture them. Surround yourself with people who believe in your vision and will challenge you to be better. The community you build will become your foundation.
For those early in their journey, my biggest advice is to stay grounded in who you are, learn to adapt and grow with each step, and always remember that your success is tied to the people you uplift along the way.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I’ve had the privilege of working with cancer support groups in the past, specifically supporting adults with cancer, and I’ve seen how powerful yoga and mindfulness can be in helping individuals manage stress, find peace, and build emotional resilience. I would absolutely welcome the opportunity to expand this work to children, especially those battling cancer. I believe that young people, too, can benefit deeply from these practices to support their emotional and physical well-being during such challenging times.
In addition to cancer support groups, I’m also interested in collaborating with hospitals, schools, and community organizations that work with children facing various challenges. If you’re part of an organization that supports children in need—whether in health, education, or emotional development—I would love to connect and explore ways we can create impactful wellness programs together. You can reach me through Instagram @Arise_wellness_yoga or email me at [email protected]
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ariseeducationalservices.com
- Instagram: arise_wellness_yoga
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