A passionate and engaging educator and presenter, Tamara is the founder, director, and CEO of Shine Dance Festival (est. 2005), The Leadership in Dance series, and co-producer of the Dance Teacher reTREAT. Tamara’s professional performing career started straight out of high school as she danced her way around the world for Alberta Ballet, Calvin Klein, MAC Cosmetics, New Balance, and Festival Cruise Line.
She has since appeared on screen in an assortment of TV movies, commercials, music videos, and the award-winning dance film Black Angels. A love of learning led to teaching in dance in studios, schools, and at events across Canada where Tamara has prepared students for exams and competitions and taught at the post-secondary level on faculty at Capilano University and TDI Professional Dance Training Program.
Tamara is an active mentor with The Women’s Enterprise Centre in BC as well as the mentor.ly online platform and is a YPAD (Youth Protection Advocates in Dance) certified dance educator who is committed to promoting a more conscientious and wellness-centered approach to dance culture. Since starting Shine Dance Festival 16 years ago, Tamara has expanded her events across BC and into the virtual realm bridging communities, across the province and internationally, through educational programs that nurture and elevate dancers, educators, and business owners.