JESSICA: Her Spotlight

In ballroom dancing, transitions between steps are as vital as the steps themselves. Katya Virshilas, a dance champion turned entrepreneur, understands this deeply. She commanded the dance floor through an illustrious competitive career and captivated television audiences on "Shall We Dance?," "Take the Lead," and "Strictly Come Dancing." However, Virshilas' most pivotal transition was founding Ballroom Bees, infusing the business with the same dedication that marked her dance career. Through Ballroom Bees, she spun her passion for dance into an innovative company. Virshilas' journey epitomizes a seamless pirouette - from celebrated ballroom dancer to pioneering businesswoman.

The Turning Point: Embracing Uncertainty

Katya forged her entrepreneurial path through necessity and resilience. "Don't fear losing your paycheck because, for me, one of BallroomBees' biggest successes happened when we lost all our savings during COVID," she recalls. This turning point thrust her beyond her comfort zone, proving that great challenges can lead to remarkable triumphs.

Her approach to challenges is straightforward yet potent: "I don't take no for an answer. You need very thick skin." Katya's tenacity in the face of rejection has been integral to her success. "I hear 'no' many times, and to me, 'no' is fuel. When someone says it's impossible, I always say there's a way." This mindset has helped her transform potential setbacks into stepping stones.

Building a Team: Recognizing Strengths

A vital aspect of Katya's success is recognizing her strengths and assembling a robust team. "I'm not good with Excel or crunching numbers, but I excel at building strong teams," she says. This talent has been instrumental in developing a dynamic, effective group for Ballroom Bees.

Embracing the discomfort of entrepreneurship, Katya believes true success lies in overcoming adversity.

"When things get uncomfortable and hard, that's how you know it's right - it needs that grit."

This mindset has been crucial for navigating the unpredictable waters of launching and expanding a business.

Katya's innocence about the complexities of entrepreneurship initially shielded her from fear. "I think what saved me was naiveté about how easy it would be," she reflects. This optimistic mindset, paired with a fierce determination to prove naysayers wrong, fueled her journey.

Passion as the Driving Force

Katya's venture into entrepreneurship, despite being fraught with uncertainties and challenges, has culminated in remarkable success. She reflects on this journey with a mix of surprise and pride:

"And you know you had your doubts, but you tried something new, and it ended up being so successful, and you couldn't have even expected it."

This statement not only underscores her unexpected triumph but also emphasizes the critical role of passion in entrepreneurial endeavors. Katya firmly believes that for anyone starting a business, an intense passion for their work is beneficial and essential. "For anyone who is passionate about starting a business, they have to be extremely passionate about what they do," she asserts.

Overcoming Fear: The Unknown as an Ally

Reflecting on her journey, Katya acknowledges that fear might have inhibited her if she knew the challenges ahead. "Not knowing is what drove me. If I'd known what was coming, I'd have been too scared," she admits. Yet this very journey into the unknown has shaped Ballroom Bees.

Ballroom Bees stands apart for dance education and an inclusive, progressive approach. "Having an amazing team of male and female teachers kids relate to, using cultural songs to engage...this makes Ballroom Bees special. Our diversity drives inclusivity. And the energy Ballroom Bees radiates is unmatched," Katya states. This unique style has made Ballroom Bees' curriculum sought-after in numerous schools. "Two years ago, nobody knew us...But as we got our first, second school, and now our fifteenth, people want us," Katya proudly explains.

Dancing to the Top

Katya Virshilas's pivot from ballroom champion to Ballroom Bees founder transcends a mere career shift. Her journey empowers a generation through dance's universal language, embracing change and challenging conventions. Though filled with uncertainties, Katya's passion and resilience enabled her to dance her way to entrepreneurial success. Her inspirational narrative reminds us that with dedication to one's vision, the unknown may not be something to fear but rather an opportunity for triumph.