“I choose challenges because I really love the feeling of nervousness—am I going to make it or not?’

WHAT WAS YOUR LAST BOLD MOVE? 

‘I think the biggest, boldest move I can relate to was moving to another country, leaving behind my family and friends for my passion. It is a big sacrifice because you don’t actually know if you’re going to make it, but you know you’re leaving behind the people you love.

If I look back on this bold move, I have to say that I am super proud that I managed to trust myself, which was not easy. But right now I feel it has built up such a strong personality within me; it has shaped me as a woman. I feel like there is no challenge that would make me more afraid because I have already faced the biggest one. It was the greatest gift I could give to myself to follow this bold move.

Diving into the deep on my own is not always easy. As human beings, we like to be understood by others. Sometimes I feel like no one knows what I am doing. Even my own parents don’t know where I am or what I am doing. This leads to a feeling of loneliness at times. I am happy that I’ve met people on my path, colleagues and friends who share the same feelings, and we really support each other to get through it.

To me, VAULIE really represents what I have been going through in making the decision to dance. It’s self-confidence, it’s power, and it’s also commitment—100% commitment to something. You have a goal, and you just go for it, no matter what. You give 100% of yourself to it.

I would definitely advise people to follow their own path. We are so influenced nowadays by many things that there is no example to follow. You should be your own example and maybe an example for others too.’

Justine Gouache | Professional Dancer