Dance Student Spotlight: Efania Sumanadevi

My name is Efania Sumanadevi, 11, from Jakarta, Indonesia and my ballet school is Marlupi Dance Academy.

@efaniasumanadevi

Can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.

My parents enrolled me in ballet class when I was 3 years old to improve my balance and just keep in shape. I grew up and loved ballet. At the age of 5, my teachers started training me to take part in local and national ballet competitions. At the age of 7, I took part in international competitions for the first time until now. I have participated in international ballet competitions in many countries.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?

It is the same thing with me. Although I have loved ballet since my childhood, there are still times when I feel bored and tired with daily exercises. But whenever I feel bored, I will definitely come back to dance again because I feel dancing makes my life fun and feels alive.

What personal limitations if any did you go through in your young career?

I am a perfectionist. Sometimes I am not satisfied with what I have done so far. I always feel that what I am doing is not good enough, so I don't believe it will be handled over time.

Has anybody ever tried to limit you on what you could do? If so how did you fight it?

I'm blessed to have parents who supported me in ballet, amazing ballet teachers, and friends.

How do you conquer negative talk?

First of all, I always introspect and try to improve myself. If negative talk is just to bring me down, then I learn to ignore it and keep practicing.

What is your favorite quote?

"Love yourself first, so you know what you deserve'" - Author unknown

So, what’s next? Any big plans?

My next plan is to enter even bigger international ballet competitions and join the American Ballet Theater. And I know I have to work really hard to get there.