Meet Vianica Warren

Today we’d like to introduce you to Vianica Warren.

Hi Vianica, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers?
I started out dancing in front of the TV like a lot of us. I loved music as a child and when the first resemblance of dance lessons started up at my elementary school, I was likely one of the first students to sign up. This start came in the tender days of first grade around 6 years old and has yet to come to a halt.

Getting to where I am today took a lot of hard work and dedication. My family was very blessed during my younger years but not with an overzealous amount of money or in fact the knowledge of the best training I could receive. All in all, my passion for dance, music, and creative works has driven me.

With a combination of raw talent, resistance to defeat, and sheer dedication I am proud to say that I have come a mighty long way, with yet so many new heights to reach.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Struggles along the way in my dance journey include many things. Initially, I was always judged due to my size and body frame. I was a little heavier than most for the majority of my rearing years but that didn’t stop me, maybe discouraged me in some instances but not forever. It actually pushed me harder.

Money and costs also made it a bit tough; nevertheless, my mother did what she had to do to help me soar and her sowing into me has definitely begun to bloom. Lack of knowledge of certain programs and training opportunities in the city was also a struggle. If I had known of the best places to train as a kid I would’ve asked to be signed up there but with a hard-working mother who made time for what was important to me despite her demanding schedule, I would say that would’ve been a rather hard feat.

I will say that despite the lack of knowledge, my environment has produced my talents and they are for sure a raw commodity mixed with wonderful versatility. My struggles helped develop that and I wouldn’t change my journey for it.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My professional and career life is quite contrasting. I currently work full time at St.Jude Children’s Research Hospital taking care of animals in the animal resource center. I am also blessed to be a professional dancer for the best team in the NBA by the name of the Memphis Grizzlies. Last but not least I also teach an array of students hip hop dance once a week and that is for sure very rewarding.

After obtaining a degree in animal science at Alabama A&M University, I moved home to pursue both a dance and science career. Since moving home a few years ago I have worked many many days caring for pets at pet hospitals, overseeing animals at the zoo, and now taking care of research animals. I have also poured many days and nights into my passions as a performer and freestyle dancer.

I am known by many in the dance community as Gangsta V. As a Memphis Jooker and freestyle based dancer I have put lots of time into perfecting my craft as an individual as well as one who can fit in well with any group of professionally trained artists or behind any musical artist, male or female. In the work place I am know for my big heart with the care of animals as well as being an efficient and hard worker.

I am most proud of my current position on paper but in reality I am just proud to help those creatures who can’t always say help when in need. My empathy and love for animals and others, in general, sets me apart. Not to mention my interesting life as a performer coupled with my demanding daytime jobs truly sets me apart.

Many may not know the hardships I face from day to day, but with the love and leadership of God in my life I am able to get through each day with grace and a good attitude.

Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My absolute favorite childhood memory would be this one time when my dad took me to a big cookout on a summer day. It was hot, sunny, and crowded with people who knew him well.

I remember dancing to the music of the DJ out on the dance floor/concrete slab. And I also remember being highly praised for my moves. It was a blast and a very fond memory that I hold dear.

Contact Info:

• Email: vianicawarren@yahoo.com
• Instagram: @gangstaV.901
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vibeswithv/
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/user/Shanelle3309

Image Credits:
Patrick Crawford and Joe Murphy of Memphis Grizzlies attire