Meet Jalpa Shah | Mother, Wife, IT Professional & Dancer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jalpa Shah and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jalpa, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I’m originally from Vadodara, Gujarat, India, a city affectionately known as ‘Sanskari Nagari,’ which translates to ‘The Cultural City’ in English. My father was an officer at Indian Oil Corporation and is also a passionate singer. Because of his love for music, my brother and I were always surrounded by musical and dance influences. This environment sparked my interest in dance from a young age.

Recognizing my enthusiasm, my mother enrolled me in Indian classical dance training when I was just five years old. Dance became a significant part of my life, but it was always viewed as a secondary pursuit. My parents believed strongly in the importance of education and financial independence. They instilled in me the idea that, while it’s wonderful to follow your passions, it’s essential to have a steady income. They emphasized the necessity of having a stable career to ensure financial security.

Growing up in such a supportive environment allowed me to develop a broad range of skills and a strong sense of confidence in pursuing my passions. The values my parents imparted—balancing passion with practicality, striving for excellence in education, and ensuring financial independence—have profoundly shaped who I am today. These principles have driven me to succeed in my professional endeavors while also allowing me to continue nurturing my love for dance.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Professional Journey: From Dance to Entrepreneurship and Beyond
My journey to where I am today has been nothing short of a whirlwind adventure. Growing up in Vadodara, Gujarat, India, I was surrounded by the rich cultural heritage of my homeland, instilling in me a profound love for Indian classical dance.

As I pursued further education in Australia, I eagerly participated in programs to showcase Indian culture and the dynamic energy of Bollywood dance. However, life took an unexpected turn when I got married and moved to the United States. With unwavering support from my husband, I made the bold decision to open my own dance academy.

For five years, I dedicated myself to building and nurturing this academy, making it a vibrant hub where students could learn, grow, and connect with Indian dance and culture. Yet, life had more changes in store. A move to Georgia presented an opportunity to expand my reach, and I successfully transitioned my academy to a new community.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, forcing me to reassess and adapt. It was during this time that I made the difficult decision to transition to the corporate world. I joined Deloitte as a Solution Analyst / Full Stack Developer, leveraging my skills in IT industry to excel in my role.

Challenges and Lessons Learned
Was it easy? Far from it. Each twist and turn in my journey presented its own set of challenges, but I refused to let them define me. Through it all, I’ve learned the invaluable lesson of resilience—adapting to change, pivoting when necessary, and never losing sight of my goals.

What Sets Me Apart
What sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to pursuing my passions while also ensuring financial stability for my family. My story is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and the unwavering pursuit of dreams.

My Brand and Story
My brand is built on the fusion of tradition and innovation, blending the rich cultural heritage of Indian dance with entrepreneurial spirit and resilience. My journey is a testament to the fact that with determination, hard work, and a touch of creativity, anything is possible.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1: Exploring Downtown Atlanta

Morning:
* Start the day with a delicious breakfast at The Flying Biscuit Cafe in Midtown, known for its Southern comfort food and signature biscuits.
* Visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden in Midtown, a beautiful oasis showcasing a variety of stunning plant collections and exhibitions.

Afternoon:
* Head to Centennial Olympic Park in Downtown Atlanta, where you can explore the Fountain of Rings, stroll through the green space, and learn about the city’s Olympic history.
* Have lunch at Ponce City Market, a vibrant food hall located in the historic Sears, Roebuck & Co. building. With a wide range of food options, there’s something for everyone.

Evening:
* Take a stroll through the Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world, and marvel at the incredible marine life.
* Enjoy dinner at Mary Mac’s Tea Room, a beloved Atlanta institution serving up classic Southern fare. Don’t miss their famous fried chicken and sweet tea!

Day 2: Day Trip to Lake Lanier
Morning:
* Grab breakfast from McDonald’s on the way to Lake Lanier for a quick and convenient start to the day.
* Head to Lake Lanier for a day of relaxation and water activities. Enjoy boating, swimming, or simply lounging by the lake.

Afternoon:
* Have a picnic lunch at one of the scenic picnic spots around Lake Lanier, surrounded by the natural beauty and serene atmosphere.

Evening:
* Drive to Antico Pizza in Alpharetta for dinner. Enjoy their authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, which are a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Day 3: Scenic Beauty of Tallulah Falls
Morning:
* Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Flying Biscuit Cafe in Midtown before heading out.
* Drive to Tallulah Gorge State Park, a stunning natural wonder known for its deep gorge and beautiful waterfalls.

Afternoon:
* Enjoy hiking the trails around Tallulah Gorge and taking in the breathtaking views of the waterfalls.
* Have a picnic lunch at one of the park’s designated picnic areas, surrounded by the natural beauty of the gorge.

Evening:
* On the way back to Atlanta, stop in Suwanee for dinner at Curry Up Now, a vibrant restaurant offering delicious Indian street food and fusion dishes. Alternatively, you can enjoy dinner at Madras Chettinaad in Alpharetta, known for its authentic South Indian cuisine.

Day 4: Relaxation and Château Élan Experience
Morning:
* Start the day with a leisurely breakfast at home or at a local cafe.

Mid-morning to Afternoon:
* Spend the day at Château Élan Winery & Resort for a delightful and relaxing experience.
* Enjoy a wine tasting tour at the winery, where you can sample a variety of exquisite wines and learn about the winemaking process.
* Explore the beautiful vineyards and scenic grounds of Château Élan. Take a leisurely stroll through the lush gardens and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.
* Treat yourself to a luxurious spa experience at the Château Élan Spa. Indulge in a rejuvenating massage, facial, or body treatment, and take advantage of the spa’s world-class amenities.
* Have a leisurely lunch at Versailles or Fleur-de-Lis, the resort’s on-site restaurants, offering a variety of culinary delights in a charming setting.

Late Afternoon to Evening:
* Continue your relaxation at the resort with activities such as golfing, tennis, or simply lounging by the pool.
* Enjoy a late afternoon wine and cheese pairing session at the winery, where you can savor delicious wines paired with artisanal cheeses.
* For dinner, indulge in a gourmet dining experience at Marc Bar & Restaurant at Château Élan. Delight in exquisite farm-to-table dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients, and savor the elegant ambiance of the restaurant.
* After dinner, take a leisurely evening stroll around the resort, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and the beauty of the illuminated grounds.

Day 5: German Town and Local Exploration
Morning:
* Start your day with breakfast at a local cafe or enjoy a leisurely meal at home.

Mid-morning to Afternoon:
* Drive to Helen, Georgia, a charming Bavarian-style town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
* Explore the quaint streets of Helen, lined with Bavarian-style buildings, specialty shops, and restaurants. Take in the picturesque beauty of the town and immerse yourself in its unique German-inspired atmosphere.
* Visit Anna Ruby Falls, a stunning double waterfall located just a short drive from Helen. Enjoy a scenic hike to the falls and marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding forest.
* Have lunch at one of the many authentic German restaurants in Helen, such as Hofer’s of Helen or Bodensee Restaurant, where you can savor delicious German cuisine and traditional Bavarian dishes.

Late Afternoon to Evening:
* After exploring Helen, head back to Atlanta and spend the late afternoon relaxing or exploring local attractions.
* For dinner, enjoy a taste of Atlanta’s culinary scene at Antico Pizza in Alpharetta, known for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas and vibrant atmosphere.
* After dinner, take a leisurely evening stroll in a nearby park or explore a local neighborhood to soak in the atmosphere of Atlanta.

Day 6: Relaxing Day at Home and Local Fun
Morning to Afternoon:
* Start the day with a relaxed breakfast at home, enjoying some quality time with your friends.
* Spend the morning relaxing at home. You can catch up on reading, listen to music, or simply unwind in the comfort of your own space.
* For lunch, order takeout from a nearby Mexican restaurant such as Platillos Latin Cuisine & Bar or El Real Mexican Grill. Enjoy delicious Mexican cuisine without the hassle of cooking.

Mid-afternoon to Evening:
* Head out for some local fun at Main Event. Spend the afternoon playing arcade games, bowling, or competing in laser tag.
* After enjoying some exciting activities, have dinner at La Parrilla Mexican Restaurant, offering authentic Mexican dishes in a casual setting.
* Alternatively, you can opt for a cozy evening at home. Order takeout from Willy’s Mexicana Grill for another round of delicious Mexican food.
* Spend the rest of the evening watching a movie, playing board games, or simply enjoying each other’s company at home. Relax, unwind, and cherish the final moments of your visit with your friends.

Day 7: Farewell Breakfast and Departure
Morning:
* Start the day with a heartfelt breakfast at home, reminiscing about the wonderful time spent together.
* Enjoy a relaxed meal and share stories and laughter as you bid farewell to your friends.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely, my journey has been profoundly shaped by the support and encouragement of many wonderful people. First and foremost, I want to dedicate my shoutout to my parents. Their unwavering belief in the importance of education, financial independence, and following one’s passions laid the foundation for my success. Their support and values have been instrumental in shaping who I am today.

I also owe a great deal to my husband. His steadfast support and encouragement have been my rock, especially during challenging times. Whether it was starting my dance academy or transitioning to a new career in IT, he has always been by my side, managing our household and being an incredible partner in parenting our daughters.

My daughters also deserve a special mention. Their understanding and adaptability have been remarkable, allowing me to pursue my passions and career. They inspire me every day to be the best version of myself.

Furthermore, while I was studying to become an IT professional, a close friend who is like a younger brother to me, played a crucial role. His support, guidance, and assistance in understanding the material, as well as preparing for interviews, were invaluable to my success.

I want to express my deepest gratitude to my dance instructors. In Indian classical dance, my teachers have been monumental in shaping my skills and deepening my love for the art form. Their dedication and expertise have profoundly influenced my journey as a dancer. For Jazz and Contemporary dance styles, I am incredibly thankful to all the instructors at Terence Lewis Dance Company. Their guidance and training have significantly enriched my dance repertoire and fueled my passion for dance.

Furthermore, I am grateful for the countless mentors and choreographers under whom I have trained for specific song choreographies. The list is extensive, and their contributions have been invaluable to my growth as a dancer.

Lastly, I would like to acknowledge the mentors and colleagues I’ve had along the way, especially at Deloitte.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jalpashahdesai/?igshid=MmIzYWVlNDQ5Yg%3D%3D

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Jalpa-Shah-Desai/100063632738190/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Image Credits
David Robinson, Ashish Desai