Sofia's Journey: A young Dancer's Rise to Success

At just 13 years old, Sofia Sanchez, a student at Freedom Crossing Academy in St. Johns, is making waves in the dance world. Sofia is currently a top semi-finalist and on the verge of entering the finals in Ciara’s dance competition, which will conclude on March 27. If she advances, she’ll compete in the final round ending April 3. Should she make it through, she’ll be flown to Phoenix to perform live for a chance to be featured in Ciara’s music video. Supporters can vote by checking her Instagram @sofiperformer for the latest updates and voting details before April 3.


When Sofia steps onto the dance floor, she captivates audiences with her magnetic presence, fluid movements, and undeniable skill. Her passion for dance is evident in every performance, and it’s clear that she is destined for greatness.


Sofia began dancing when she was just 6 years old in Texas at Revolution Dance Center. Today she trains and dances at Britney Boyd Dance Company in Jacksonville, a pre-professional dance program for future artists pursuing a career in dance professionally. This program is run by the amazing Owner/Director, Britney Barber, and her amazing staff of versatile choreographers.
Sofia was selected as a ProReveler for the 2024/2025 season through the REVEL Dance Convention, where she assists choreographers in teaching classes of 300-500+ students. She is currently on tour with them in select cities—follow her on Instagram @sofiperformer for updates.


She also trains at the CLI Conservatory in Southampton, MA, during the summer under Creative Director Teddy Forance, alongside world-renowned choreographers. Her solo this year, a contemporary fusion and musical theatre piece, was choreographed by Liliana de la Mata, a former Britney Boyd Dance Company alum now training at CLI. The dance tells the story of a mysterious French lady, allowing Sofia to showcase her professional artistry. While this style pushes her out of her comfort zone, her stage presence makes it look effortless.


Sofia excels in all dance styles, including jazz, jazz funk, fusion, hip-hop, contemporary, tap, and ballet. She competes in multiple styles throughout the season with her team. Each season, she chooses a different solo to challenge herself.


At her level, Sofia trains under multiple professional mentors and dedicates 25-40 hours per week to dance, balancing daily training, competitions, and assisting on tour. Her work ethic, discipline, and passion set her apart—she is an athlete in the dance world, training with the intensity of an Olympian.


Because she is versatile in dance and as an artist. Her goal is to do everything in the industry as a dancer, acting/TV, judging, modeling, singing, and choreographing in the artist industry


Despite the competitive nature of dance, Sofia has learned not to compare herself to others. With the guidance of her coach and the unwavering support of her mom, she focuses on what she loves most—dancing. Her dedication, talent, and perseverance make her an inspiration to both children and adults. Her maturity and understanding of the importance of mindset set her apart. She believes that growth comes from constantly pushing boundaries and stepping outside her comfort zone.


Her philosophy? “Trust yourself and never give up.” Faith plays a central role in Sofia’s life, and she keeps a journal to help her stay focused and process her journey. She also advises fellow dancers to “block out criticism as much as possible and just focus on yourself—kind of zone out from what others think.”


A true fashionista, Sofia has been accepted into the Fashion Program at Bartram Trail High School for the 2025/2026 school year. She also plans to stay active in theater while continuing to train and dance professionally—her greatest passion and first love.


With talent, determination, and a heart full of passion, Sofia is on the path to something extraordinary. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for this rising star.