In this episode of This Afro Dance Life, host Gladys Edeh chats with dancer and performer Yvonna Hoba for an inspiring conversation on passion, perseverance, and purpose. From her beginnings in a Maryland church dance ministry to training in ballet, jazz, modern, and West African dance, Yvonna shares how her journey led her to Atlanta’s creative scene and onto stages with Tyler Perry’s A Jazzman’s Blues, The Color Purple, and performances at The Headies alongside Afrobeats stars like D’banj, Fireboy DML, and Wande Coal.

Yvonna opens up about balancing her Ivorian and American roots, the sacrifices of freelance life, and why moments like meeting Oprah remind her to trust the path. She also breaks down the importance of collaboration within the Afro Dance community, her inspirations in Coupé-Décalé, and the role of dancers in bringing music to life.

Most importantly, Yvonna speaks directly to those who doubt dance as a “serious career,” challenging them to open their minds: dance shapes culture, drives music discovery, and builds movements. Her advice to dancers? Be yourself, train intentionally, and protect your body for the long run.