Austin: A Journey of Passion and Resilience
AUSTIN, Texas — In a peaceful corner of the Casa de Luz Village in South Austin, a group of people gather in a dark room, filled with excitement and anticipation. They are waiting for Monica Landois to start her fitness dance class that has become a favorite in the community. Landois, who rents the space, describes her students as more than just participants; they are friends and followers who share a love for movement.
From Environmental Studies to Dance Instructor
Monica, a first-generation Austinite and a graduate from Texas State University, holds a bachelor’s degree in geography with a minor in business Spanish. She initially thought of working in environmental investigations to assist the Latin community, bridging gaps through language.
After college, Landois began her career with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. She remembers how her parents beamed with pride when she told them about her new job. However, it was during a short break between graduation and starting work that she discovered Zumba classes. Zumba combines Latin music with high-energy dance moves for a fun group exercise experience.
A Turn to Dance
Encouraged by her instructors, Landois auditioned to become a Zumba instructor herself. As she recalls, “It’s one of those things that was so random that kind of just fell in my lap.” Her first class drew a crowd of over 50 people, creating an incredible sense of community. “I would meet so many people from different walks of life,” she said.
As her group expanded, so did her opportunities. She secured a contract to teach Zumba classes for the City of Austin, making significantly more money for just 45 minutes of work compared to her government job. “That’s where the wheels started turning,” she reflects.
Motherhood and Career Changes
Eventually, Monica married and welcomed her first child, a baby boy. Balancing motherhood, a government job with a lengthy commute, and teaching dance proved to be a challenge. “Even though I like this job, I can’t sustain being a mom and working those hours,” she realized. Struggling for support from her then-husband, she found it difficult as he could not see her vision.
Deciding to follow her path, Monica faced tough cultural challenges when she separated from her partner, which her parents disapproved of. With two boys to support now, she pushed herself to succeed. “At any point you can say, ‘I’m not going to listen to the noise’,” Landois said.
Overcoming Challenges
However, just as she was ready to fully commit to her dance classes, the pandemic hit, closing many businesses. Thanks to her previous experience creating dance videos for Amazon’s Prime Video, Landois was ready. “I learned about resilience, having grit, and how it’s so worth it,” she said. She realized that the moments when you feel like giving up are often the most valuable lessons.
Finding Balance
Now, Landois has managed to maintain a flexible schedule, typically working fewer than 20 hours a week while raising her two young boys. She proudly shared that she has witnessed every milestone, from first steps to first words.
Teaching and Inspiring Others
Recently, she trained two more instructors to help expand her classes within the community. Besides teaching dance, Monica has become a motivational speaker, sharing her journey as a “mom-preneur” with other women. She also offers lessons to couples wishing to explore new dance styles. Through all her endeavors, Landois finds joy in her life and a deep fulfillment.
Conclusion
Monica Landois serves as an inspiring example of how following your passion can lead to a rewarding and fulfilling life. Her story highlights the importance of community, resilience, and being true to oneself in the face of life’s challenges.
