Inspiring Conversations with Bilma Diaz of DivaDance Phoenix

Today we’d like to introduce you to Bilma Diaz.

Hi Bilma, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up in New York City, a magical place well-known as the “mecca” of performing arts. Dance was a big part of my life as a kid. My formal dance training was with Ballet Hispanico and the Harkness Dance Center under full scholarships. I completed a choreography program as a teenager, learning from the most renowned artists in the early 2000s through the Dancemaker’s Company, such as Alvin Ailey. I also completed a 3 year teaching internship for dance in High School. Performing on stage or doing live shows was my favorite part of dance. It’s the main reason dancers spend years of training and rehearsing in a studio.
Dancing professionally is traditionally a short lived career with scarce opportunities to earn a livable wage, so I did other things. My first job was a pointe shoe fitter at Capezio, where I also landed an affiliate contract to test pointe shoes. I also got certified as a fitness professional so that I could learn how to teach safer, higher quality dance classes. Dance was never just a hobby for me, it was part of my identity. Even after I went back to college and took on different career paths in life, I always found my way back to dance. Before I ended up as a Franchise Owner for a dance company, I taught dance classes.
As an adult, I now define the role of dance in my life as a form of self-care. Staying active keeps most people healthy, but dancing gives you a real edge on understanding your own body, connecting with humans, memory, motor skills, and creativity. Dancing helps me stay mentally sharp and resilient- which prove to be vital while working in high-stakes, fast-paced industries like healthcare, tech or business.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No one working in the dance industry or any small business becomes successful without challenges along the way. I’ve done some research on this, and a majority of self-made entrepreneurs come from difficult childhoods or faced some sort of trauma. Mental health professionals refer to some experiences as measurable predictors of outcomes which they call ACE (Adverse Childhood Events). People with ACE experiences are disadvantaged by unfavorable outcomes that shorten their life expectancy, particularly minorities and women. I believe one really good thing that comes from those struggles is building “grit”- the core trait required for business ownership. Two hallmark ACE experiences in my life that impacted me were poverty and the 9/11 attack. These two traumas shaped me into becoming someone who cares deeply about human suffering and wanting to make a difference. In my opinion, the businesses that are most worthy of investing any time or money into are the kind that save lives or change lives in some meaningful way. Ultimately, I focus on living a purpose-filled life of service to others.

We’ve been impressed with DivaDance Phoenix, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
DivaDance® Phoenix: Your Premier Destination for Adult Dance Classes and Unforgettable Experiences

DivaDance® Phoenix offers an energizing and empowering hip-hop dance experience, delivering top-tier adult dance classes across vibrant Valley neighborhoods. Our classes are designed to build confidence, improve cardio fitness, and—most importantly—ensure an unforgettable time.

We proudly serve several key areas throughout the Valley, including Central Phoenix, North Phoenix, Uptown Phoenix, North Scottsdale, and South Scottsdale.

At DivaDance®, every class is inspired by today’s hottest pop music. Our choreography is built around the featured song for each session, drawing influence from a variety of dance styles such as hip hop, jazz, funk, burlesque, and more. Some sessions highlight a specific style—just check our class schedule icons for more details!

All of our classes are truly “All Levels.” Whether you’re stepping into the studio for the first time or have years of dance experience under your belt, our talented instructors are trained to make every class accessible, supportive, and fun for everyone—from total beginners to Beyoncé-level pros.

At DivaDance®, we are committed to fostering a supportive, judgment-free environment where every client feels safe, seen, and celebrated. Diversity and inclusivity are at the heart of everything we do.

Our all-levels classes feature brand-new choreography each session, so there’s no pressure to keep up or feel behind—everyone is welcome, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned dancer. We encourage you to move at your own pace, with plenty of water breaks throughout the class (and of course, feel free to hydrate anytime you need!).

At the end of the day, our goal is simple: have fun, feel empowered, and dance like nobody’s watching.

Beyond weekly dance classes, DivaDance® Phoenix is also your go-to destination for private events and celebrations. From bachelorette parties to birthday bashes, we specialize in creating memorable, high-energy experiences that your squad will never forget.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
1. Continued Growth in Adult Dance Fitness
The demand for fun, empowering, and community-driven fitness experiences is growing rapidly—especially among adults who are tired of traditional gyms. DivaDance® is uniquely positioned to capitalize on this shift by offering an experience that’s about joy, not just reps and sets. We expect continued expansion in our clients and studio locations, with the potential of having our own brick and mortar in the near future!

2. Stronger Emphasis on Community & Mental Wellness
As people prioritize mental health and connection, dance classes that offer a safe space, self-expression, and confidence-building will become even more essential. DivaDance® already fosters this beautifully—expect this to become an even bigger differentiator in a crowded fitness space. For example, we have also implemented new class offerings such as DivaDance RX, which is essentially a form of dance therapy!

3. Increased Focus on Inclusivity and Representation
Consumers are holding brands accountable when it comes to DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion). DivaDance® already emphasizes inclusivity, and this will only grow in importance. We foresee broader representation in marketing, size-inclusive merch, gender-neutral offerings, and community partnerships.

4. The Rise of “Fitness as Lifestyle”
More and more, people are looking for fitness that feels like a lifestyle—social, fun, stylish, Instagrammable. DivaDance® naturally fits this niche. Over the next decade, we could see more brand extensions: merch lines, travel dance retreats, collaborations with music/fashion brands, and influencer partnerships.

5. Event & Party Market Expansion
With bachelorette parties, birthday celebrations, and team-building events becoming experiences people want to personalize and remember, DivaDance® is poised to lead the way in that niche. Expect more curated party packages, destination experiences, and VIP offerings as we expand!

6. AI & Tech Integration
Technology will likely enhance the class experience without replacing the human element. Think: AI-based feedback for form, app integration for tracking classes or connecting with your “dance crew,” and immersive lighting/sound to enhance the studio vibe. We plan to utilize any available AI & Tech Integrations to enhance the client experience!

In short, DivaDance® is perfectly positioned for long-term growth. Its ability to blend fun, fitness, empowerment, and community sets it apart—and those values will only become more important in the years ahead.

Pricing:

• Single Drop In Class $30
• Two Week Unlimited Trial $59
• Platinum Membership (12 month commitment) $119 per month & One Time Sign Up Fee of $79
• Gold Membership (6 month commitment) $129 per month & One Time Sign Up Fee of $79
• Ten Class Pass= $270

Contact Info:

• Website: https://divadancecompany.com/locations/phoenix-arizona/
• Instagram: @divadancephoenix
• Facebook: DivaDance Phoenix
• Youtube: @divadancephoenixcommunity