When Maria Radu moved from Romania to Plymouth at age six, she didn’t speak the language and barely knew anyone but dance became her anchor. It gave her a place to go, a way to express herself, and most importantly, a sense of belonging. “It was a home for me,” she says.
Now, at just 16, Maria is giving that same feeling to others. She launched AMR Street Dance six months ago while juggling college studies, determined to create a space where children could feel safe, confident, and connected. Her classes, held at Total Fitness near Mutley Plain, welcome kids up to age 15, and she hopes to expand to adults in the future. Her mentor, award-winning dancer Toby Gorniak, says her passion and purpose are rare. For Maria, it’s about more than dance—it’s about community, joy, and the power of feeling accepted. “This is just the start,” she says.