Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to RonDale Simpson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi RonDale , really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
Growing up in the vibrant and challenging city of Saginaw, Michigan, I discovered my profound love for dance. Amidst the absence of a stable home, dance became my sanctuary and a powerful means of self-expression during the most difficult times in my life. As a young boy, I eagerly joined local youth dance groups and enthusiastically participated in talent shows. However, it was when I dressed up as a pint-sized Michael Jackson for my 6th-grade Ice Cream Social that I realized my true calling.
While I never anticipated a life as a performer, my passion for dance endured throughout my school years. My path took a transformative turn when I enrolled at Central State University, a Historically Black College and University. Immersing myself in extracurricular activities, I wholeheartedly embraced the Finesse Dance Team and the university marching band, eventually achieving the position of Drum Major—a dream I once deemed unattainable.
Upon completing college, I embarked on a multifaceted career as a performer, educator, and community activist. Teaching dance and empowering others to find their unique creative voice has become my purpose. Today, I teach classes and coach teams across Northeastern Ohio, while also sharing my expertise as an educator in the classroom. Through my work, I am dedicated to fostering a world where individuals can experience healing, unity, and self-expression through the transformative power of movement.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Ron’Dale Simpson’s passion for dance has allowed him to pursue a successful career as an artist, choreographer, and producer. He has experience in a wide range of dance styles, including hip hop, afro-fusion, Step , and modern dance. As the founder and artistic director of Blakk Jakk Dance Collective, Ron’Dale has created a platform for dancers of color to showcase their skills and build their professional network.
In addition to his work with BJDC, Ron’Dale has collaborated with various organizations in the community including the Center for Arts-Inspired Learning, Karamu House Theater, Cleveland public theatrer, Cleveland dance movement, The movement project and the Rainey Institute. He has also worked with Cleveland Public Libraries and CMSD schools, bringing the joy of dance to local students.
Ron’Dale’s ultimate goal is to own and operate a performing arts school and company, catering to community youth and local artists. He believes in the power of the arts to inspire and enrich the lives of individuals and hopes to continue sharing his passion for dance with others.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
My first top areas of knowledge and skills set is youth growth & development. I currently teach a variety of dance genres and styles with historical, fundamental, and SEL concepts. As an Educator of art and community programming, I’ve learned that people are loyal to the space and place that make them feel safe and seen and provide them with a sense of belonging. When engaging a new group, my first objective is to build a sense of community between the participants. From there, natural bonds and communication lines are formed, and everyone moves as a unit. I aim to use dance as a catalyst for healing and change in my community. I want to teach methods of creating art, emotional expression, and self-discovery.
My skills and experience in community engagement and networking. I enjoy getting to know people and building bonds that unify and bridge gaps between the diverse background of our community. I have done a lot of community initiatives with homeless shelters, churches, schools, non-profits, and community rec centers. I have many ideas of social gatherings combined with food, fun, community, activities, and exercises to develop individuals personally and collectively. I believe social interactions are moments that leave lasting impressions on those involved. Creating social settings that allow community members to connect on levels will allow innovation and collaboration can promote sustainable community unity.
Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
Throughout the years, I have gained pertinent abilities and experience. I have likewise worked resolutely on my correspondence capacities and collaboration abilities, It’s not just my experience in the past ventures yet, in addition to my relationship-building abilities. Then again, I am a self-motivated person and I try to exceed my superior’s expectations with high-quality work. Being a quick student, I rapidly get business information identified with my venture. Ultimately, I might want to include that I function admirably both as an individual contributor and also as a team member.
Contact Info:
- Website: blakkjakkdanceco.org
- Instagram: BlakkjakkDance
