We had the good fortune of connecting with ABAgail Dunn and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi ABAgail, how does your business help the community?
I offer a safe space for people to come and dance. I’ve also added a meditation and Reiki class and studies have shown that when people get together and meditate in large numbers, it brings peace and prosperity to the area. I have brought joy to so many ladies over the years, ladies that are just looking to get out and move and learn something new. Overall, by bringing affordable and fun classes to the South Phoenix area, I have expanded my own horizons and that of many others.

What should our readers know about your business?
Motherland Jams Belly dance is a part of A Place of Love, LLC, the name of my company that will eventually house my medical practice. I want people to know that my brand is all about spreading love and joy and getting rid of all the things that society has forced us to accept over the years. We take on so many things in order to fit in with other lost souls, rather than seeking what brings us personal joy. I want people to know that my brand stands against police brutality and racism and it’s a safe space for those that feel unseen and unheard.

Along the way, I’ve learned to truly have fun in my business and that everyone won’t approve of what I do. When it comes to challenges, I am learning to take deep breaths and know that everything will truly be fine.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would take my friend to Tempe Townlake, as it’s always been one my favorite places to go. We’d most likely just hang out and have a picnic, if the weather is nice. I’d have to bring them to Early Bird Vegan in South Phoenix, as this is one of my favorite places to grab some delicious vegan food.

I love to dance, so I’d want to take them to a pole dancing class at the Purple Palace Pole studio.

We’d also have to do brunch at Brunch & Sip in Central Phoenix and stop by the Grassrootz Bookstore.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
In regards to my local business and outreach, I have to say that Annette Yates has played a huge factor, as she not only owns the dance and fitness studio where I offer most of my classes, but she is also very supportive. She always has suggestions for my class and recommends countless people to come and try it out. Over the years, she has inspired me to keep going and have fun with what I am doing, even through these incredibly trying times.

Website: https://www.motherlandjams.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/motherlandjamsbellydance/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCruXKM3TkAhrcgXSC0UpAw

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.