As the school year enters its final stretch, many students are excited about summer plans, including Liberty Hill Middle School (LHMS) student Akira Hinson-Ekong. She will spend three weeks this summer in New York City, living out her dream as a dancer. Let’s chat with her about her plans at the world-renowned Joffrey Ballet School.

Akira began dancing at the age of four and started competing at age six. According to her mom, LaDawn Hinson-Ekong, “Her talent and passion for performing were evident from a young age.” She is currently part of the dance team at LHMS, led by Alissa Powell. Powell said, “Akira is an awesome dance student! She is a hard worker who goes above and beyond to push herself towards reaching her potential.” 

Akira also dances with the North Austin Ballet Theater. She dances until nine p.m., three or four nights per week. Her dedication and hard work come directly from her love of ballet. ”Ballet is my favorite because it is classical, elegant and pretty, but also disciplined and organized," said Akira. 

That love of ballet and hard work led her to audition for the Joffrey Ballet School’s summer intensive. She will be in New York City for three weeks, rehearsing jazz and contemporary during the day and taking additional pointe classes at night. She auditioned in front of international judges to be selected for this prestigious program. According to Joffrey’s website, the intensive is designed to develop young classical dancers into expressive, versatile and professionally prepared artists.

The Joffrey Ballet School opened in Manhattan in 1953 with a mission to empower passionate dance students at any stage in their journey to reach their greatest potential by providing high-quality, professional and holistic dance training. The school now has studios globally and offers intensives in various dance genres at locations around the world.

This was Akira’s first time going through the nationwide audition process to earn a spot in the summer intensive. Her family is extremely proud of her. “For her to be chosen is a huge accomplishment, and I couldn’t be more proud of the way she continues to challenge herself,” her mom said.

Powell is excited about this opportunity for Akira. “This will allow her to grow in her personal dance journey and show her peers here in Liberty Hill that there are opportunities out there — you just have to seek them out and put in the work to make your dreams happen,” she said.

Along with dancing, Akira can not wait to return to New York City. She grew up in New Jersey and previously danced in Manhattan. Her mom will stay in the area with her, and they will visit old friends, extended family and favorite childhood spots on her days off.

The future is bright for Akira. She hopes to become a professional dancer with the Royal Ballet in England after high school. Hinson-Ekong said her daughter has the confidence to make those dreams happen. “When children know they have a strong support system from their family and community, it gives them the confidence to reach for their dreams,” she said.