Huami Magazine Mississippi Sept./Oct. 2023

Afredanz Dance Center

By Terry L. Watson

Photos Provided by Afredanz Dance Center

Since she was twelve years old, owning and operating her own dance studio has always been her goal and dream. Today, Nijalon Jackson-Causey is living her dream out loud. She is the owner of Afredanz Dance Center.

Based in Pascagoula, MS, Afredanz Dance Center is the gateway to a world of dance, offering an array of captivating genres for all age groups. Their dance classes encompass the elegance of ballet, the exuberance of jazz, the energy of hip-hop, the innovation of modern dance, and the rich heritage of African/Afro-Caribbean Dance. Whether you’re a tiny tot of three or, a spirited 18-year-old, or even an adult seeking to express yourself through dance fitness, they’ve got something for everyone. Nijalon says, “Our mission at Afredanz Dance Center is to provide a multifaceted and high-quality dance experience aimed at both liberation and education. We are dedicated to enriching the world of dance by offering a diverse range of dance styles and dimensions, including education, therapy, technical excellence, and entertainment. Through our commitment to culture, diversity, and authenticity, we empower dancers on their unique journeys while advocating for the profound impact of dance in our society.”

A native of Moss Point, MS, Nijalon describes herself as a creative, vibrant, and courageous being. She is a wife and a mother to two amazing children who keep her on my toes. “I love to dance, teach dance, educate and inspire people through dance. However, my experience with dance was not traditional. I came from a single-parent household in which we were in poverty. I did not have the resources and support that many successful dancers have. I also became a mother at eighteen years old, which had put my dance dreams to a halt for three years.Despite the obstacles, I was eager and determined to learn and grow, so I did whatever I could to ensure that I would get closer and closer to my dreams,” she says.

Through our commitment to culture, diversity, and authenticity, we empower dancers on their unique journeys while advocating for the profound impact of dance in our society.

Nijalon was introduced to dance while in elementary school. To step out of her comfort zone, she joined her school’s dance team. “At eleven years old, I was painfully shy and awkward, so you can imagine how I was terrified but oddly still interested in dancing in front of people,” she says. Over time, Nijalon grew to love dance, and the rest was history.

For over 20 years, Nijalon’s world has centered around dance. She has taught dance competition teams and dance education in Moss Point’s school district for three years. She is also a performer and choreographer and has produced dance productions. Nijalon is currently producing a holiday dance production called The Dreamcatcher. This is Nijalon’s second year producing The Dreamcatcher, and it continues to be free for the children in her community to participate, with no previous dance training required.

Every experience and goal she has embarked on has aligned Nijalon with her dreams. She created a business plan in 2014, but did not form her business until 2021. She opened the doors to her studio in February 2023. “As a dance educator and advocate, I strive to provide a very enlightening and enjoyable experience to make any person’s experience worthwhile,” Nijalon says. “I am the product of my environment, and I believe in giving back to my community and creating opportunities. Also, I believe in the benefits and freedoms experienced through dance, which often becomes inspirational and life-changing.”

Nijalon obtained a Dance Education, a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts Degree from the University of Southern Mississippi, and an Associate’s Degree in Business Marketing Management from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. She is the first cohort of the Invest in Progress Grant from the BOSS Network and Sage Invests, in which recipients receive a $10,000 grant and a year of monthly mentorship through the BOSS Business University. This online program helps Black women successfully start and grow their businesses. Even more, Nijalon is the third cohort for ELEVATE Mississippi, a program that supports Mississippi residents and business owners in need of technical assistance to enhance their business operations.

Nijalon says she loves the chance she gets to meet different people through dance. “The dance world is small, and you will quickly realize how everyone is connected. I also enjoy transforming non-dancers into dancers,” she says. Nijalon admits she is forever grateful for the individuals who have paved the way for her success, and because of them and God, she would not be where she is today. “My life is a testament to what perseverance looks like. I want my children to know they can do anything they have in their hearts and minds, and I strive to show them that no matter how big the obstacle, they can overcome it.”

The way Nijalon studio offers dance and the structure of her classes and dance environment are much different than other dance studios in her area. Her flavor of different also comes with a few challenges. Nijalon says, “I notice that some people are not open to change or feel comfortable experiencing something different. Therefore, I often advocate and push for people to experience my services. It is challenging me to be courageous and put myself out there, and on the flip side, my creativity has grown and evolved during the process. Debbie Allen once said, “But out of limitations come creativity”. In this very moment is where my creativity is flourishing and growing.”

As Nijalon looks to the future, her plans include starting a dance company for teens to dance, create dances, and showcase their art. “Once my studio reaches my enrollment goal, I will embark on that journey,” she says. “I see my dance studio being the go-to company for future dance professionals or children who desire a dance career post-high school. I made it this far; therefore, I know I can make it even further and continue to achieve my dreams and goals.”

www.afredanzdc.com