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Maria Akpan: Rising From Challenges to Center Stage

Written by

Jorge Lucena

Photographed by

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Styled by

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Maria Akpan emerges as a shining inspiration in the dance world. A professional dancer, Akpan has charted a unique course, always moving forward with determination and leaving a trail of illustrious achievements and captivating performances in her wake. From her modest beginnings to her current status as a leading figure in the music industry, Akpan has invaluable offerings as a dancer and artist.

Akpan's deep love for dance was planted early and evolved into a calling that has become her life's purpose. Her path has led her from the United Kingdom to New York and, ultimately, to the bustling hub of Los Angeles, the heartbeat of the entertainment industry. Her talents have graced the stage alongside celebrity artists, including the global sensation Davido and the versatile Goya Menor. Akpan's dance moves have harmonized seamlessly with the music of Irish singer-songwriter Samantha Mumba, leaving an indelible imprint on stages not only in the United Kingdom but also far beyond.

Recently, Akpan was in the spotlight as the lead dancer in the music video for Paris Gatlin's "Double Tap." This video gained a remarkable 585,000 views on YouTube, showcasing her electrifying dance skills that have enthralled audiences worldwide. Not stopping there, Akpan has also captured viewers’ attention in the music video for Goya Menor ft. Fredy Muks's "Turn Up," boasting an impressive 726,000 views on YouTube.

But to get to the point where you are the lead dancer in world-renowned music videos, you have to go through numerous auditions and rejections. Auditioning in Los Angeles, a place of fierce competition, demands dedication and steadfast self-belief. This industry has taught Akpan the valuable lessons of resilience, adaptability, and the importance of hard work, which have become central to her success.

Since her move to Los Angeles in 2018, Akpan has seen doors open in a life-changing experience, where she has danced among the stars and encountered numerous opportunities. Performing with Davido at the MOBO Awards was a pivotal moment, symbolizing the representation of an artist from her homeland. Her passion and tenacity also led to a scholarship at the prestigious Broadway Dance Center in New York City, a global epicenter for dancers. This experience further enriched her skill set and paved the way for even greater accomplishments.

The dance industry taught Akpan the necessity of continuously putting herself out there, which has led to her being featured front and center in two prominent music videos, showcasing her exceptional dancing skills. The dancer and choreographer’s profound love for her passions, desires, and dreams was the driving force enabling her to build her illustrious career. Akpan stands out because of her self-motivation, drive, creativity, and dedication. As a lead dancer, she knows that her role is to breathe life into the projects she works on, which she does with poise and prowess when working with artists, directors, and more. 

Maria Akpan's story is a testament to the power of pursuing one's passion with enduring dedication. As she continues to navigate the rhythm of life, Akpan epitomizes the belief that perseverance, work ethic, and a commitment to self-improvement can lead to unparalleled success. 

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Maria Akpan
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