DivaGirl Conference 2012

A day filled with laughter, friends and inspiration was exactly what the Diva’s needed! In March DivaGirl Fitness and Jackie G Events hosted our first ever DivaGirl Conference – and it was amazing.

There were inspirational speakers, trendy vendors and amazing dancers – not to mention yummy food and cold drinks!

Check out the photos taken by Marlen James – who never misses a moment!

Don’t just take our word for it – read on to see what some of the attendees had to say…

“I had such a positive and healthy experience last Saturday at the DIVAGIRL Conference. Thank you for introducing me to this exceptionally mind blowing event. The energy could light up the world. I was and am still experiencing an illegal high from the entire journey. WOW!!!!!” ~ Felicia Marandola

“I had a fantastic time – the speakers were really true and dedicated to their messages and the event, and it was a pretty special experience to get to witness so many people coming together!” ~ Melissa Aquino

“The DivaGirl Conference was an excellent experience. It was nice to be surrounded by such amazing and inspirational women. Great event for anyone looking to change their lifestyle for the better.” ~ Portia Favro

“I loved the session with Lauren Slocum. Lauren easily wrapped you up in her talk, making you believe she was speaking just to you. The exercise of asking everyone write out their 6-month goals was very powerful (and emotional). For me, putting a few goals down on paper made them come alive and seem really doable.” ~ Heather

“It was a lot of fun. I loved Carla Catherwood’s sassy, fun attitude, and the presenters were inspiring. Well done ladies! Thank you” ~ Nikki Orr

“The conference was so much more than just a opportunity to workout, learn, shop and connect with other women. It provided a fun and inpiring environment for you to reexamine your priorities and feel you had the tools to make your goals a reality!” ~ Jean Giroux

“We had a fabulous time at the Diva conference. the workouts were fun and effective. I could feel it in my abs for days. The speakers were thought provoking and inspiring. A definite must next year.” ~ Wendy Baterman

“This was a great conference. As an older Diva I expected it to be all about young model types – boy was I wrong – everyone went out of their to be welcoming and friendly – everyone was equal and could partipciate in every way — Can’t wait for next year!” ~ Michelle Cove

“The day was a jump start to many great days ahead!” ~ Pia and Lucy Santoro

With that said – we hope to see YOU at next years DivaGirl Conference 2013! We are already planning the day – and we can’t wait!!

Need a vacation? The DivaGirl Conference is heading to Florida! Click here for more details!

 

Featured Spring DivaGirl Licensee: Melyssa Moniz!

We are excited to announce Melyssa Moniz as our featured Spring DivaGirl Licensee. Find out why Melyssa is so divalicious…

Interested in becoming a DivaGirl?  Click here to see how you can become a DivaGirl and become part of our community!

 

What are three words that best describe you? 
Genuine, Driven and Charming.

Tell us a bit about yourself: the true Diva.
I am incredibly passionate about making differences in not just my own life, but for the world at large. I often dream about the possibilities and get super charged knowing that all the little things amount to the big things in life. I love the presence of family and friends in my life – they are my motivation, they inspire me to operate at my full potential. I am a girly girl at heart and think of my face as my canvas – a place where I can magically add artistic improvements.

How did you get into teaching dance/fitness?  Tell us about your experiences in the industry.
About 10 years ago, I realized how much I loved to move, to express, to be around people in the entertainment sense of things. I discovered the realm of Latin social dance, and was instantly hooked to all things Latin. Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Samba, Reggaeton – it was all such a divine treat for me! So I pursued learning, then performing, then teaching in a short amount of time, literally submersing myself and my schedule into all things dance and training and personal development. The last 4 years have been some of the best years of my life! I have met incredibly passionate people who love to move and they share some of the same values that I have. I have also seen some challenges with the rates this industry pays their instructors and performers (specifically the entertainment and fitness industry). One of my core missions is to help increase the perceived value for our services so that we may start enjoying a better standard of living – I have done this already with my current companies and will continue to encourage and promote this across the board.

Why did you decide to join DivaGirl?
I decided to join DivaGirl because I was incredibly inspired by Laura Furtado. She has been an incredible motivating force of action since the day she started and that is something I want to be apart of! I love her attitude, her vision, her energy – and I have committed myself to the growth of the DivaGirl brand for my own betterment and the betterment of the fitness/entertainment industry. PLUS, it’s more fun to be a part of this awesome company!

Tell us a bit about the classes/workshops that you offer to the DivaGirl Community.
My classes and offerings are designed for progression and positive results. They all have Latin inspired foundations; some partner work and some individual dancing/movement. They are fun and engaging and are geared towards individual and team expression via dance. If you love salsa, bachata, reggaeton, latin movement, and zumba, then you will love all of our class offerings.

Why should women attend your DivaGirl classes/workshops?
Knowing that each person progresses at a different rate and with a different learning style, my dance school takes the time to discover each student’s needs and develops approaches that work for them. Our syllabuses include a comprehensive, progressive structure, opportunities for student review and feedback and a timeline set for progression. Our students commend us on our attention to personal detail and our friendly and warm approach. Unlike other dance schools, we emphasize student and teacher relations in order to build strong, confident, and stylistic dancers.

What constitutes you as a Diva?
I am a Diva because I know what I want, and I go and get it!

 What are your top three tips to help women get fit, have fun and feel sexy?
#1. TAKE TIME OUT FOR YOURSELF! Listen to your thoughts, develop your vision, dream often, talk to yourself with love and care!

#2. SCHEDULE IN THE FUN! If you’re like me, than you often schedule in clients, workshops, meetings, work, and more work – but will somehow forget to SCHEDULE in the fun stuff just for FUN – like you would any other priority in life, make a time slot and commit to it.

#3. EAT WELL! People often think that ig they just workout a lot more, or take a fitness class that they will feel sexier. This is true, you will, but by far you can feel so much more sexier in your own skin if you FEED yourself Power Foods, Nutrient Rich Foods, Fibre Dense Foods – excess fat around your sexiness assets will melt off naturally, so you can enjoy a lean, mean, sexy body! Whatever skin you’re in, LOVE it and Treat it Right, so you can feel SEXY all day long! :)

Are there any upcoming workshops/events/projects that you are working on, that you would like to share to the DivaGirl community?
Starting in April, my dance classes will be on 5 days a week! So come and check them out! Click here for more details!

May 11th – HUGE salsa party that my partner and I will be organizing – come out for some awesome performances and great dancing fun! Held at 918 Bathurst ( super close to the TTC Bathurst station)

June 1st – BIG salsa anniversary party that my company is performing at, and we are hosting the party afterwards – at Joy of Dance, Dance Studio Toronto.

Final Comments?
If you don’t know where you’re heading, how will you know when you get there? And if you take time to listen to yourself, anyone can start dictating how your life will span out. But it’s YOUR life, and you have the rights and freedoms to CHOOSE what you do with it – I am extremely proud of my success to date, and have so many people to thank for their support – my family, Thiago, Sarah, the students, the sponsors, the partners, my friends, and my Divine spirit.

Thanks DivaGirl for all you do!

6 Tips to be Healthy & Happy!

1. Set at least 3 goals per year. (I like to set 3 every 3 months)

2. Create a daily ritual

Each day, take 10 minutes just for you. When you wake up in the morning, take a min. to find your happy thought for the day;something positive that you are going to do, or someone your are going to see who makes you happy. ( I got this tip from my boyfriend.  I love that he does this every morning and so now I started doing it too)  Before bed, read a book that  inspires you, take a bath or drink an herbal tea.

3. Move it!  Exercise for 30 minutes every day. You can go to the gym,  take a yoga or pilates class, go for a walk, swim or go dancing. Choose something you like and be consistent.
4. Write in a journal.

Write a little every day. You can write your goals for the week. What has been a success this day, you’ve learned today, and one reason why you are grateful.

5. Love, Love, Love

Find ways to get more love in your life. Find time in your schedule to see the people you love. Playing with a child, hug your friends, smile at someone you do not know,and most importantly, if you love someone, tell them.

6. Eat your veggies.  Every day no if ands or buts!

Get Certified with DivaGirl Fitness… Online!

DivaGirl Fitnes is excited to introduce the NEW Online Sexy Fitness Instructional Workshop!  Get certified with DivaGirl in the comfort of your own home!  We are looking for fabulous Divas across the globe to join our community!

Click here for more information about our online course.  Via the DivaGirl Boutique, you can get the full online course for the Sexy Fitness Instructional Workshop.  Get fit- sexy styles!  In this workshop, we focus on learning basic movements on three various sexy platforms: standing, wall and floor.  Choreography and teaching ideas are offered to aid in the creation of a sexy fitness class for the average woman!

Included in the course package:

  • Instructional Sexy Fitness Manual
  • Video library of Sexy Fitness movements & terminology
  • 2 video segments and respective choreography notes (Strip to Fit & Chair Dancing)
  • Online quizzes
  • Pro-Trainer review, marking and feedback on video submissions and quizzes
  • Certification in Sexy Fitness

Join the Diva Revolution today!

Featured Winter DivaGirl Licensee: Deona Scott!

We are excited to announce Deona Scott as our featured Winter DivaGirl Licensee.  Find out why we think Deona is so divalicious…  Interested in becoming a DivaGirl?  Click here on how you can become a DivaGirl and become part of our community!

What are three words that best describe you? 
Energetic, Positive, and Independent.

Tell us a bit about yourself: the true Diva.
When I was 15 I moved to Canada from South Texas by myself to live a better life. Mostly anything I’ve ever done I’ve done it on my own. Getting myself into schools, auditions, studios, classes, transportation, photo shoots, jobs, etc. I grew up in a really small town, and I had a small town mind. Since I’ve moved I see there is a whole entire world out of opportunity. Best believe I’m going to go out there and get it!

How did you get into teaching dance/fitness?  Tell us about your experiences in the industry.
I always loved to dance as a kid, but was never a “studio child”. The small town I grew up in didn’t have studios, so I resulted to cheerleading. When I moved to Canada I put myself in a studio right away. After about 6 months of taking class I was assisting the younger classes. I also transferred to an arts school, took dance obviously, and got the opportunity to choreograph/teach my classmates. After that, I guess word got around and I started c0-choreographing studio competition numbers. I’ve been in love with teaching ever since! Industry wise I’ve choreographed for events such as “Dancing with the Docs” (fundraiser for the Closer campaign), some talent shows/musicals, and was a co-choreographer of a fashion show for the clothing company Hurley. I’ve danced in a few music videos this year, stage events, and of course Nuvo-Burlesque shows!  I’m looking forward to expanding my knowledge of the industry in 2012.

Why did you decide join DivaGirl?
I love teaching dance/dance fitness. I love performing. I love having a team of amazing people surrounding me with positivity. Working with DivaGirl I enjoy all of these things + more!

Tell us a bit about the classes/workshops that you offer to the DivaGirl Community.
As of right now I am starting WAACK yourself into shape! Waacking is a fresh dance style very hip to the dance scene. It’s also great arm, ab, cardio- pumping workout! Gunna be FRESH!

Why should women attend your DivaGirl classes/workshops?
I give more to my students than just a class! I believe in nourishing the soul, body, and mind through dance. Everyone needs an outlet once in awhile, and when you attend my class I can guarantee you won’t be thinking about your to-do list. You will just be having fun & WERKING!

What constitutes you as a Diva?
I’m pretty much a female version of a hustler. No, but really as I said before.. if I want something I will work as hard as possible until I get it.

 What are your top three tips to help women get fit, have fun and feel sexy?
1. Eat WELL! It’s totally cool to treat yourself, but you are what you eat!  What you fuel your body with affects your mood, skin, and health.
2. Keep your friends close! Don’t let your Diva hustle get in the way of catching up with your girls.
3. Make sure your exercise excites you! If you don’t enjoy running – don’t run. There are so many ways to stay fit. Exercise often & enjoy doing it!

Are there any upcoming workshops/events/projects that you are working on, that you would like to share to the DivaGirl community?
Vanessa Young, the Booking Agent of DivaGirl Entertainment, and I are working on a HYPE ART project called ‘Those Girls.”  It may or may not have you asking this question.

Final Comments?
Pastel Supernova once told me “No excuses!” Remember that… YOU CAN DO ANYTHING!

Just Launched- ChannaSerenity.Com!

DivaGirl is excited to announce that our fabulous DivaGirl Licensee, Channa Serenity, has just launched her new interactive website/shop!

Kick start the new year with a wellness program from ChannaSerenity.com.  Whether it’s a New Year’s cleanse, Wellness coaching or a Nutrition plan, give yourself the gift of revitalization and rejuvenation.

Make health a habit by learning to make positive lifestyle changes so you’ll look great and feel even better!

As a special offer to our community, all DivaGirl Licensees & Members receive 15% discount when purchasing online.

Code word: Serenity

Pilates for Breast Cancer Recovery

Exercising after breast cancer surgery is often the last thing you may feel like doing. Cancer wreaks havoc on the body and between weight gain, muscle atrophy, fatigue and premature bone loss women are left feeling physically challenged by even normal daily activities.

Nonetheless, recent studies prove that moderate physical exercise can be incredibly beneficial for breast cancer survivors.

When it comes to choosing a safe and effective exercise program for survivors, Pilates covers all the bases. The exercise method has its roots in physical therapy and was created by Joseph Pilates during the 1920s to rehabilitate bedridden soldiers from WW1. The principles of Pilates were, and still remain, focused on breathing, core strength, shoulder and pelvic stability.

Pilates both during and after treatment can help to alleviate pain and restore energy, joint mobility, tissue integrity and overall strength. In particular for breast cancer survivors, Pilates breath-work can encourage proper lymphatic drainage.

The benefits of Pilates go beyond the physical – many women report feeling emotionally recharged after class.  Movement after invasive surgery is empowering and can help alleviate feelings of depression, getting you back to a feeling of normalcy. It is well documented that exercise releases endorphins or “happy hormones,” which elevate mood.

In sum, here is a list of benefits from participating in a Pilates program during and after breast cancer surgery.

  • Improved lymphatic drainage with proper breathing techniques
  • restored postural alignment and balance
  • improved shoulder girdle mechanics to help breakdown scar tissue and frozen shoulder
  • restored overall range of motion, flexibility, strength and endurance
  • enhanced core strength and endurance
  • improved overall body awareness
  • re-established muscular firing patterns
  • reduced both physiological and emotional stress
  • increased self-confidence and overall well-being



The next PINK METHOD workshop will be on Sunday January 22, 2012 from 2- 3:30 pm.

Location: Trinity St Paul’s United Church
427 Bloor Street West, Toronto ( Bloor and Spadina)
$10 per person, all women are welcome.
Email: nikkibergen@gmail.com to reserve your spot

Million Dollar Smiles Charity Halloween Gala

Million Dollar Smiles an incredible non-profit organization that is dedicated to putting smiles on the faces of children with life threatening illnesses.

The Annual Halloween Gala is an incredible evening of fun, fantasy, and fundraising. Guests of the evening are invited to join us for a delicious four course dinner, enjoy open DELUXE bar all night long, as well as be entertained by fabulous  re-known DJs’, MC, Comedians, Singers as well as participate in Raffles, Grand Prize Give A Ways, and Best Costume Contest and more!   All money raised from guests attending this evening is used for the Christmas Bear Drive.

On December 17th, volunteers of MDS surprise deliver 4 foot teddy bears to the children’s home, each teddy bear comes with a $100 gift card to Toys R Us.  There is nothing more amazing than a child’s face who may be experiencing all of the challenges in the world light up in surprise and delight at receiving this gift.   We invite you to join us for this fun filled event and appreciate your support for the children.

Date: Friday, October 28th 2011
Location: Borgata Banquet Hall, 8400 Jane Street, Vaughan, ON
Time: Cocktails At 6:30 p.m., Dinner at 7:30 p.m., Celebration Until 2 a.m.
Dress Code: Fun and Creative!!  Celebrate In Your Favorite Costumes!
Ticket Pricing – $75.00 - Includes 4 Course Dinner, Open DELUXE Bar All Evening, Entertainment and More!
*Opportunity for Sponsorship, Donations, Raffle Prizes, and Silent Auction Items –  please email jackie@divagirlfitness.com.

Sponsor the Chic-A-Boom Room 2012 Pin-Up Calendar!

Spread the word fans! DivaGirl Entertainment is looking for some awesome local companies that we can integrate into our Pin-Up shoots for our 2012 Chic-A-Boom Room calendar!  Any company or product is welcome.


 

First come first serve if you want to choose your month or model! Email Vanessa for more information: vanessa@divagirlentertainment.com.

Follow the Chic-A-Boom Room on Facebook.
Click here for more information about our October show.

Fashion x Active Wear x Style= Titika!

We condition our bodies to look fabulous through dance and fitness but, what can we do to put emphasis on how amazing our bodies look with clothes on? We want workout gear designed with our curves in mind and Titika Active Wear is a Diva-fied brand we can’t get enough of! Titika is a Toronto based company founded by female entrepreneurs who have a passion for fitness and fashion and who are inspired by life. Titika’s mission is to design and create active wear that accentuates women’s natural curves while providing comfort, function and style.

 

Titika’s online gallery is stocked with different styles and colours to enhance your figure – check out our favourite Titika combo that leaves us feeling sexy and confident when we’re dancing up a storm:

The pink Bow Tie Bra is oh-so-comfortable and breathable! You can find us looking pretty in pink, we are DivaGirls – after all!

The Florida P pants are oh-so-sexy! We are loving the v-cut waistband and the flowing style of the capris. Psssssssssst… Did we mention  Titika is teaming up wtih DivaGirl Fitness to launch our own DivaGirl Collection? Stay tuned for the launch in 2012! In the meantime check out the rest of the Titika collection online at www.titika.ca. Indulge in the hottest active wear and support Canadian brands!

Follow Titika on Twitter.

Like Titika on Facebook.

Written by Amy Caron, DivaGirl Social Media Co-ordinator.
E: amy@divagirlfitness.com

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