Dancer’s Paradise: Dancing Rebel overcoming obstacles to fulfil her dreams Overcoming obstacles to fulfil her dreams Dancing Rebel

Christina Nelson, also known in the dancehall sphere as 'Dancing Rebel', is perhaps one of the most popular dancers on the local circuit.

She has built a career to be envied by others in the industry, and although she's now getting the support she's always hoped for, Rebel had to overcome a lot on her journey to stardom.

The vivacious personality told Dancer's Paradise that the first hurdle was erected in her own household.

Having discovered her talent from a young age, and then actively pursuing it since the age of 16, Rebel said her parents did not immediately support her career choice.

"No parent wanted their child to just get up and say, 'Mommy, or daddy, I want to be a dancer'. So the support I needed was not there. I had to be very determined to make it because with no support, things were rough. But, this is what I love, this is what makes me happy," she said. "Certain things that have happened, I didn't expect to happen for myself. I'm making inroads on the international market, but, honestly, I didn't know that I would ever break out on the overseas scene. Touring the world and showcasing my talent? I must say it's a dream come true."

Rebel explained that even her weight was an issue at one point as 'thick girls' were always more in demand on the dance circuit. "Nowadays, if you're not a thick person, it's very hard for you to even get called for a music video. I always had to prove myself. Weight is always an issue in dancing, no matter how they try to deny it," she said. "Thankfully, my talent couldn't be denied, and I was being seen for what I brought to the table and not how I looked physically."

But she said that the most challenging part of being a dancer is "everyone looking at you like someone you aren't."

"People always judge you because they see you in the streets doing your work. It's not up to par for some of them, so they become very judgemental. Sometimes I fear that many things won't happen for me because of how people see me," she said. "People still criticise me for my career choice. Sometimes I see some comments on Instagram like, 'I should find something better to do' or 'this is crazy', and stuff like that. They come off harsh, but I know what I love and I know what pays me. I'm pretty much happy with my work, so now I don't make negative comments try to stop me from doing what I love. I have created dance moves like Couple Up, Bang Beng, Shine Out, Smooth Rush and the list goes on, so I'm proud of myself."

Rebel said her tenure as part of Team Spice has taught her many valuable lessons, but watching her boss work has taught her the most.

"I am working for someone who is almost superhuman, someone that their work ethic is over the edge. I must say she's a role model for myself. Seeing my boss be so fierce is something that has always boosted my confidence. Watching her work has made me realise that anything is possible," she said.

Speaking of possibilities, the dancer said it is her lifelong dream to open a dance studio as she enjoys teaching the craft as much as she loves performing it.