The world of dance is not just about the grace and agility on stage; it’s about nurturing talent, guiding careers, and shaping the future of the industry. Menina Fortunato, a former professional dancer with an illustrious career, is on a mission to educate and empower the next generation of dancers. Her journey from the stage to the mentor’s seat is a testament to her dedication to the art and its aspirants.
Fortunato’s dance resume reads like a dream. Having performed with icons like Britney Spears, Beyoncé, Earth Wind & Fire and other A-list stars, her career was a whirlwind of success and stardom. However, it’s her transition from performer to educator and mentor that truly defines her legacy. Post her performing career, which shifted gears after her first pregnancy, Fortunato didn’t step away from dance; instead, she stepped into a new role — nurturing talent and guiding young dancers toward a successful career.
Educating Aspiring Dancers
Fortunato’s mission is deeply personal. She recognizes the myriad challenges and misconceptions surrounding dance as a profession — the notion of the “starving artist” or the belief that dance is a short-lived career. Through her program, “The Business of Dance,” she goes beyond dance training; she’s educating dancers about the industry, its opportunities, and the business skills they need to thrive.
Her program is comprehensive, focusing on building marketing assets, educating about finances, taxes, nutrition, and mental skills, and providing a blueprint for success. She’s filling a significant gap by focusing on the business side of dance — a crucial aspect often overlooked in traditional training.
The Importance of Mentorship
Menina understands the transformative power of mentorship. She acknowledges the talent and dedication of young dancers but also recognizes that without guidance and a clear understanding of the industry, many might leave their passion behind. Her mentorship program provides the missing link between talent and success, offering a step-by-step guide to building a sustainable career.
One of her primary goals is to change the narrative around dance careers. Through her own story and the success of her family members who have also built careers in dance, she demonstrates that dance can be a lucrative, long-term profession. Her program aims to enlighten and inspire the next generation, showing them the full scope of what’s possible in the dance world.
The impact of Fortunato’s program is evident in the success stories of her students. Her mentees are creating their dream dance careers signing with top agents, dancing on the Super Bowl with Rihanna, Universal Studios Hollywood, the Crypto arena with LA Clippers, touring with live musicals and even appearing on Disney commercials & music videos for Shania Twain. These stories aren’t just about individual success; they’re about the ripple effect of proper mentorship and education in the arts.
Menina Fortunato’s mission goes beyond dance. It’s about empowering young artists with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to pursue their dreams. By nurturing the next generation, she’s not just shaping individual careers; she’s shaping the future of the dance industry. Through her dedication and commitment, she’s ensuring that the art of dance is not just preserved but also respected and valued as a viable and prosperous career path.
