I feel incredibly honoured to have been nominated for Community Champion of the Year in this year’s Pride of Jersey Awards.
Dancing in Jersey has always been about more than just a website. When I started it up on Facebook in January 2022, my hope was to create a space that brings together our Island's amazing dance community - connecting dancers, teachers, organisations, and anyone who simply loves to move. Over the years, it's grown into a platform that not only celebrates dance but also helps people find classes, discover opportunities, and feel part of something bigger.
To be recognised for that work, and nominated by someone who believes in the value of what I do, means the world to me. I see myself as Jersey's biggest dance ambassador - I simply care deeply about the community and want to help it thrive. But if you believe in the impact that Dancing in Jersey has had, I'd be so grateful if you could take a moment to vote for me, please. Every single vote really does count (voting is open until 11:59 on Sunday 21st September).
What makes this year's Pride of Jersey even more special is seeing others from our dance and movement community being recognised too (and on a personal note, many friends and other wonderful individuals I know, including my former Media teacher & form tutor, Dr Michael McKinlay, who sadly passed away last weekend).
- Twin sisters Jayne Renouf and Julie Pinel (Shape Up to Music with Jayne & Julie) have also been nominated for Community Champion of the Year for their tireless commitment to helping Islanders stay active and connected. Their classes have supported people of all ages, and their positive energy has been described as life-changing.
- Joëlle Agathangelou, founder of Mind & Moves, has been nominated for Diversity and Inclusion Champion of the Year. Through dance, mindfulness, and empowerment coaching, Joëlle has created a safe, inspiring space for women to grow in confidence and embrace who they are.
To me, that's what Pride of Jersey is all about: shining a light on the people who quietly but powerfully make a difference in our community.
If you'd like to support me in the Community Champion of the Year category, you can cast your vote here (select Hayley Routier).
Thank you so much for your votes, your encouragement, and for being part of this journey with me. Special thanks goes to:
- Pam Pearce for nominating me, who part of her submission, stated: "She does it all voluntarily, out of the goodness of her heart, to promote dance, and she does it with energy, integrity and kindness. Hayley works tirelessly for the benefit of others and she deserves to be recognised for all that she does for the dance community and beyond."
- My husband and our incredible parents
- Dr Michael McKinlay, who had a huge influence on me and was my favourite teacher - he nurtured my passion for building and maintaining websites; may he rest in peace
- The One Foundation team for their generous support with funding for the Dancing in Jersey website
- All dance organisations and their teams, for their support, encouragement, and collaboration, and for doing what they do for the dance community
- Friends and supporters who encourage me behind the scenes
~ Hayley Routier, Founder of Dancing in Jersey
