Hi everyone,

I’ve been blessed with the incredible opportunity to participate in the Deeply Rooted Dance Theater Intensive — a prestigious, Chicago-based program that focuses on artistic growth, technical training, and personal development for dancers like myself. It’s a 6-week immersive experience starting the first week of June, and it’s exactly the kind of space I’ve been longing for to grow in my craft.

This is especially meaningful to me because I haven’t had a chance to dive deeply into my dance training since 2022. I miss it deeply. Dance is not just movement for me — it’s language, healing, and expression. This opportunity feels like a doorway back to myself, my purpose, and my passion.

While I’ve been working hard to support myself, I’m reaching out because I need help covering the tuition and housing costs. I'm not based in Chicago, so I’ll need a place to stay for the duration of the program. Asking for help isn’t something that comes naturally to me — I’ve always tried to handle things on my own. But I’m learning that it’s okay to lean on community. It’s okay not to struggle in silence.

Starting this GoFundMe is a step toward trusting that people do want to support, and that I don’t have to carry every burden alone. If you’ve ever felt like you had to be hyper-independent at the cost of your well-being, I hope this resonates with you. Sometimes, asking for help is an act of strength.

Any support — financial, emotional, or even a share — would mean the world to me. I’m excited about the growth this program will bring, the new connections I’ll make, and even the chance to explore a city I’ve never been to before.

Thank you for reading, and thank you for considering being part of this chapter in my journey.

With love and gratitude,

Zanyah Dorfeuille