My Thoughts Tonight
By: Natasha Rivera
Founder, South End Dynamite 💫
Nineteen years ago, something magical began right in my living room — a spark that became South End Dynamite. It wasn’t born from money or a master plan. It was built from love, rhythm, and a big, beautiful dream shared by my siblings and me.
We had no fancy studio, just a vision.
We had no sponsors, just soul.
We had no limits — just culture, community, and a mission that still makes my heart beat fast:
💖 To dismantle homophobia.
💃 To spread joy through music and dance.
🌈 To use baton twirling as a way to celebrate diversity, quality, and respect.
What started as a neighborhood dance team quickly became so much more. It became a movement. A safe haven. A family. A place where youth could move freely, shine boldly, and be unapologetically themselves.
But sometimes, even the brightest lights need to rest. Between 2022 and now, life told me to pause. After years of giving everything to this work, I faced deep burnout and began healing — navigating fibromyalgia symptoms and sickle cell anemia.
It wasn’t easy to step back. But healing isn’t weakness — it’s wisdom. 💕
And in that quiet space, I found clarity.
Now, in 2025, I’m not starting from scratch. I’m starting from strength.
And I’m so proud to pass the torch to someone who has grown right alongside this movement: Shakir Evans.
Shakir joined South End Dynamite at just 13 years old — and now, at 26, he’s stepping into leadership with passion, integrity, and vision. Watching him evolve from student to director has been one of the greatest joys of my life.
So here we are — the legacy continues, brighter than ever, as Haus of Dynamite.
Still moving. Still glowing. Still twirling through it all. 💫
To every dancer who’s ever found their voice here…
To every family who’s cheered us on…
To every supporter who believes in the power of movement…
Thank you. You are the heartbeat of this Haus. 💖
Here’s to 19 years of resilience, rhythm, and rebirth.
To healing.
To leadership.
To the next chapter of this beautiful journey.
With love always,
Natasha Rivera
Founder, South End Dynamite 🌟
Cycle 19