Brown Girls Do Ballet at SXSW EDU: A Stage for Change

This year, Brown Girls Do Ballet had the incredible opportunity to present at SXSW EDU, where we shared our mission to increase ballet participation among underrepresented populations. Our panel emphasized the importance of access, advocacy, and representation in the arts, highlighting how early exposure to dance can transform lives.

A special highlight of our presentation included three stunning mini-performances by former Brown Girls Do Ballet Ambassadors:

✨ Joelle Kimbrough (OU Ballet)

✨ Alexandra Owens (Ballet Austin)

✨ Amaya Joseph (Ballet Austin)

Before taking the stage, each dancer shared her personal journey in ballet, discussing the challenges and triumphs she faced, as well as the impact of being part of the Brown Girls Do Ballet community. Their stories served as a powerful reminder of why representation and advocacy in the arts are essential. Watching them perform with grace and strength was an emotional full-circle moment, demonstrating how access and support can create lasting change.

The energy in the room was undeniable—educators, advocates, and fellow creatives came together to reimagine arts education and rethink what inclusion in ballet truly looks like. SXSW EDU reminded us that representation matters; when we make space for diverse stories in dance, we empower the next generation to take center stage.

Thank you to everyone who joined our session and continues to support our mission. The future of ballet is bright—and it includes all of us.

📸 Check out some of our favorite moments from the event!