Meet M K | aspiring professional dancer, mentor and content creator

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

Hi M, how do you think about risk?
In the past, I used to have an amazing relationship with taking risks. I was fearless and ready to try anything. I didn’t care about the consequences or effects of being a risk-taker, I just knew I had a goal and I needed to accomplish it for myself. Even if that took me doing something over and over until I mastered it.

Unfortunately, the older I got the more taking Risk became a challenge for me. I became an overthinker, a procrastinator and just intimidated by everything around me. I lost my drive and confidence in taking risks. Just now in my 20-somethings, I am forcing myself to completely say F#*k it. I am forcing myself to tap back into that little girl who just wanted to accomplish anything life tossed at her. I learned that just taking one risk could lead to the next best experience of my life. . . I no longer wanted to sit around and think about what would happen if I just tried.

Taking just the smallest risk has impacted my life by showing me the possibilities of how far I can go in my career. It opened up a new light bulb in my head, It was like I never knew how much could be possible with me just trusting God, and my gut by just doing what feels right in the moment. This year I have completely stepped out of the box from performing on stages, being in music videos, and touring different cities. I am walking in rooms with people I only imagine and see on TV or Social Media. I am learning and growing every day. people are starting to recognize who I am and it’s all because I’ve allowed myself to step out of my shell and take even the smallest risks.

I know I’m not exactly where I want to be right now, but being a risk taker allowed the doors in front of me to be prepared, and the best is yet to come.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am currently a Teacher / cheerleading coach and I background dance They part time. Occasionally. I help people with graphic designs and manage social media accounts.

Starting off in me careers I would’ve never thought I’d be able to work with all the amazing talents I did. I found a love for dancing and coaching during college and right after I graduated. I’m proud that I found something that makes me happy. For a long time I prayed hard for God just to help me start. I’d cry, pray and journal everyday. And God heard me. I’m in love with where my journey continues to take me.

Most days it’s hard for me to juggle so much. But I’m reminded that I asked for everything I have right now. Whenever I feel like giving up I don’t. And I’m most proud of my consistency. I follow the saying “ follow the plan not the feeling” so

I’m learning that when you do what you love with confidence and fearless opportunity’s continue to flow in. You have to believe in yourself and trust that what’s for you will always find its way to you.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friends came to visit me I’m taking them to Edgewood to bar hop. Lol sounds crazy but it brings me so much nostalgia. In college that was one of my favorite places to go and I also performed with artists in bars on Edgewood.

I’d take them to Change church in Dulth. I love worshipping there when I can. It’s a bye place with amazing worship music. It’s full of life and the spirit of God.

Is show my friends around Piedmont Park because it’s such a huge park. I’d take them to Willy’s first for a daiquiri and prepare a picnic with food a speaker and games. You meet so many new people out there and there’s always an event or festival going on out there.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Without these people recognizing things I didn’t see in myself, I am not sure I would still be pursuing a career that I love. These special people helped me learn so much about myself. These are the people who play a major role in providing me with opportunities that have made my spirit the happiest in the darkest of times. A lot of the time I truly believe God was speaking directly through them to get to me. I know that as soon as I make it to where I want to be it is because I had these people always lifting me to my highest self.

Amanda Massey ( my mom ), Miss Primrose, Chris J Yancy, Umari Enoex, Joshua PRiME Calhoun, Carlyto Johnson, My friends at home in NC Juwana, Zae, and Arrington…….. and so many more.

I want to specifically shout out The Academy ATL Anthony Heart, Antwain Heart & Katea Roberts.

Being a part of The Acadamey ATL Program was hands down one of the hardest / best experiences for me so far. I feel like I came out a new person. I thank God that I was able to meet people who are not only passionate but were understanding and forgiving. I appreciate you all for showing me that my dreams are possible and also reminding me that NOTHING comes easy, no matter how much you may like or love a person you all showed me I still have to work for the things I say that I want. If it wasn’t for you three, and my new dance brothers and sisters, I don’t think I would ever be able to give people the grace that I do now and continue to pick my head up each day and walk in a room with love and light. The sacrifice was never unnoticed and I will always be grateful.

Instagram: Itsmkjm

Linkedin: MaKayla Massey

Facebook: MK JaNae

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@MaKaylaMasseyMKAY?si=kmx69b0nWMxZz5jh

Other: TikTok: mkjanae

Image Credits
@dontaerose @girlytheceo