About Me

Hi! I'm Jaida Ocasio-Parvaiz and I've been passionately dancing since the age of three.

My Journey

I am a Half Puerto Rican and Half Pakistani woman. Growing up, I moved around a lot but I first started dancing in Bergenfield New Jersey and eventually made my way to Philadelphia, Pa. I did competitive dance when I was younger but switched to concert dance around fourteen years old.

At sixteen I joined Philadanco's second company and had the amazing opportunity to perform in places like The Academy of Music, The Dell, and many more. I attended The Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts where I got the chance to perform in Thanksgiving day parades, showcases, and company pieces. I graduated a year early from high school so I could move to New York and attend The Institute for American Musical Theatre. This is where my passion for singing and acting really took off. Recently, I have been performing behind various drag queens and different artists, as well as teaching kids at my home studio. If you don't find me dancing I'm either with my cat, at my local coffee shop drinking an iced matcha or spending time with my family and friends.

Teaching Philosophy

As a dance instructor, my goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where students can explore, grow, and flourish. I believe in encouraging each student's unique artistic voice while building a strong technical foundation. My teaching approach emphasizes both discipline and creativity, helping students develop confidence in their abilities while maintaining the joy of dance. I often remind my students that “you have nothing to prove, just everything to share” - encouraging them to focus on authentic expression rather than perfectionism.