RJC Dance Alumni Interviews: Holly Thomas

Holly Thomas joined RJC Dance in 1999 and was an Youth Provision member for seven years. Now Holly supports children around the world who have been exploited through sex trafficking. Learn more Holly and her incredible journey in this quick interview.

At what age did you join RJC Dance Youth Provision?

I joined RJC Dance Youth Provision at the age of 12, when RJC Dance were the guest resident dance company based at the Northern School of Contemporary under the church. I was taught by Villmore James.

How would you describe your time at RJC Dance Youth Provision?

It was really character forming and incredibly supportive. It was essential for my development as I was excruciatingly shy as a young person. RJC Dance Youth Provision really helped me overcome this, building up my persistence and consistence. Initially I found it hard to memorise dances and I always felt like I was struggling. However, I never gave up and this was a part of the training and support that RJC Dance provided, alongside a sense of mentorship with the young people. It was an incredible experience.

What is your favourite memory of your time at RJC Dance?

The entire process of a performance. Going from the absolute terror, especially when you knew you'd be performing at the Northern School of Contemporary Dance. But then working through it to the onstage performance. I loved the camaraderie and this feeling of fear and joy each time I performed.

What would you say your greatest achievement was as an RJC Dance Youth Provision member?

Working through the fear and feelings of not being good enough and persevering. This taught me the fundamentals of never giving up.

Describe RJC Dance youth provision in 3 words.

JOYFUL SUPPORTIVE ACCESSIBLE

Where are you now?

I am an independent agent for Barnado’s, working with children who have been exploited through sex trafficking. For the last 10 years I have worked for various charities. I travelled to Greece in 2016 to volunteer in refugee camps before becoming a case worker for children’s charities. I am also currently studying Existential Psychotherapy and hope to qualify as a psychotherapist so I can further support the refugee children around the world.

What words of inspiration can you provide for the young people who want to join a participatory dance organisation or and go into the Arts and Culture Industry?

Don’t lose sight of the love and passion you have for it, just enjoy every minute and work hard. But don’t stress yourself out by comparing yourself to others and keep your own journey. Remember the reason you started it and the passion you felt.

RJC Dance helped me build my confidence in music and to learn music. They inspired me to study music at the University of Birmingham - something that I wouldn’t have had the confidence to do as a child. My school never encouraged me in the arts at all, but RJC Dance most certainly did.