Orlando, FL - June 25, 2023 - The Jacksonville-based Venezuela Marka Foundation, an organization representing the heart and resilience of immigrant talents, has emerged victorious at the P3 Talent Competition in Orlando, Florida, surpassing nearly 150 teams in an exhilarating display of cultural richness and technique.
We are making dreams reality one at a time
Established in 2023, the foundation, in a relatively short span of time, has created a powerful narrative highlighting the immigrant journey. In the face of significant hurdles, including language barriers and competition inexperience, the team exhibited a stirring testament to their mission statement: 'We are making dreams reality one at a time.' Through resilience, discipline, dedication, and a profound love for their craft, they carved out a place on the international stage, transforming their immigrant journey into a resonating symphony of triumph.
Samantha Colina, one of the rising stars, stunned audiences and judges alike, earning the 'Most Inspiring' award for her contemporary piece. Also capturing hearts was the team's mesmerizing folk dance, which was honored as the best show for the 12-14 age range, underlining their collective talent and unique artistic vision.
We have not just danced, we have told our stories, and we are incredibly humbled and honored by this recognition
"We have not just danced, we have told our stories, and we are incredibly humbled and honored by this recognition," says Katherine Durand, Artistic Director and professional dancer of the Venezuela Marka Foundation. Durand, a Venezuelan immigrant herself, brings her vast experience and passion for dance to steer the team towards greatness.
Standing beside Durand is Maria Kellermann, Executive Director of the Venezuela Marka Foundation, whose story echoes the journey of many in the team. Kellermann, a former professional dancer who faced her own immigrant challenges, now shapes the team's growth with her expertise, fostering a nurturing environment that encourages every dancer to flourish.
Durand and Kellermann have been instrumental in propelling the Venezuela Marka Foundation's mission, fostering a fertile ground for the young talents to bloom against adversity, leveraging the collective strength of the team's directors, families, and friends. This victory is a powerful statement, a clarion call to the world that dreams can become reality, one step at a time.
The victory at P3 Talent Competition serves as a launchpad for the Venezuela Marka Foundation, already gearing up for their next performance at the AMÉRICA VIVA Gala in Miami on October 27th. Not only does the team plan to bring their artistry to the gala, but they also aim to create exposure and offer new disciplines to their alumni through strategic partnerships, thus furthering their mission and fostering growth in the Jacksonville community.
We promise to continue to shine the spotlight on our shared heritage and to make our collective dreams a reality.
"To our Jacksonville community, your unwavering support has been our strength. This victory is as much yours as it is ours," said Kellermann. "We promise to continue to shine the spotlight on our shared heritage and to make our collective dreams a reality."
About Venezuela Marka Foundation
The Venezuela Marka Foundation is a non-profit organization based in Jacksonville, Florida, dedicated to transforming the lives of young immigrant dancers through the art of dance. With a focus on resilience, discipline, dedication, technique, and love, they aim to make dreams reality, one dancer at a time.
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