Thank you for generously supporting Olivia in this year’s competition. Your support helps empower the V Foundation for Cancer Research and the Why Not You Foundation in their respective missions to save lives and empower today's youth to become tomorrow's leaders.
I love how dance makes me feel everything and how free I am when I’m moving. When I dance, I can truly be myself with no limits or boundaries. It helps my mental health and eases my anxiety, giving me a place to feel safe and confident. One of my favorite things is being able to tell a story with my body, expressing emotions and moments without saying a single word. Dance is where my heart feels the happiest.
Ava Wagner inspires me because of her amazing talent and kindness—she makes me want to work harder every day. Misty Copeland also inspires me because she’s breaking barriers as a black dancer in the dance world and proving that nothing can hold you back if you believe in yourself. Both of them remind me to stay determined, keep pushing through challenges, and to always dance with heart and passion, no matter what.
I don’t know if I can pick just one proud moment. Trophies, scholarships, and awards are all amazing, but the human she is becoming every day has truly made me the proudest. Her resilience and dedication at such a young age are inspiring. She’s a humble, quiet, and shy dancer offstage, but the moment she steps under the lights, she transforms—dancing with fierce ambition and passion that takes my breath away every time.
Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Through online competitions like Youth Athlete of the Year, Colossal offers participants the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact.