Today we’d like to introduce you to Noreen Kinohi.
Hi Noreen, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey with dance started long before I ever imagined running a program of my own. Growing up, I was able to train in a studio environment because my parents made sacrifices so I could participate consistently. That experience shaped me — dance gave me confidence, expression, and a sense of belonging. As an adult, I initially launched my program as an LLC with the traditional vision of building a studio-based business. But as I began working with young people, especially teenagers, I noticed something deeper happening. They weren’t just coming for dance — they were connecting, opening up, and finding a safe space.
That shift changed everything. I realized many families simply cannot afford access to dance and the creative arts, yet those are often the very outlets young people need most. I made the decision to transition into a nonprofit model so I could focus on outreach instead of transactions. Today, Noreen’s Dance Collaborative is built on the belief that dance is more than technique — it’s community, healing, and expression. Our work brings people of all ages and income levels together while also promoting mental health awareness through movement. What started as a business idea grew into a mission: to use dance as a bridge for connection, confidence, and emotional well-being.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. One of the biggest challenges has been spreading the word and clearly communicating what we offer. Because our program blends dance, community engagement, and mental health awareness, it can take time for people to fully understand the depth of our mission. We’re also currently sharing studio space, which means the environment isn’t always set up specifically for dance. That can create logistical challenges and requires extra flexibility and creativity.
Like many nonprofits, consistent funding is an ongoing hurdle. We are always applying for grants, seeking donations, and looking for sustainable resources to keep programs accessible for families. But these challenges have also strengthened our purpose. They’ve pushed us to build partnerships, think creatively, and stay deeply connected to the community we serve. Every obstacle reminds us why this work matters — because access, safe spaces, and creative expression should not be luxuries.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My work sits at the intersection of dance, early childhood education, and mental health advocacy. Professionally, I am a dance educator, but my background and passion extend deeply into child development and emotional wellness. I specialize in using movement as a tool for expression, confidence-building, and connection, especially for children and youth. Alongside that, I am an advocate for early childhood brain development and believe strongly in educating families and communities about how movement, creativity, and emotional support all play a role in a child’s growth.
Through Noreen’s Dance Collaborative, I’m known for creating spaces that feel welcoming, supportive, and empowering rather than competitive or exclusive. My programs focus on the whole child — not just technique, but self-esteem, emotional expression, and a sense of belonging. I also work to bridge dance with mental health awareness, helping young people understand that movement can be a healthy outlet for stress, emotions, and self-discovery.
What I’m most proud of is the impact on the children and teens who walk through our doors. Seeing students grow in confidence, open up, support one another, and feel seen is what drives me. What sets my work apart is the blend of professional dance training with a foundation in child development and advocacy. It’s not just about producing dancers — it’s about nurturing resilient, expressive, and emotionally aware young people through the art of movement.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
The quality that has been most important to my success is adaptability grounded in purpose. My original vision looked different from where I am today, but I’ve been willing to listen, observe, and adjust based on what the community truly needs. Instead of holding tightly to one business model, I stayed rooted in why I started — to make dance accessible and meaningful — and allowed the how to evolve.
That flexibility, paired with heart, has helped me move through challenges, build genuine relationships, and create programs that serve more than just skill development. It’s allowed me to lead with intention, compassion, and a community-first mindset, which continues to guide every decision I make.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.noreensdancecollaborative.org
- Instagram: Ndcollaborative
- Facebook: Noreens Dance Collaborative
