Our Story

In 2019, a dream took its first graceful steps in Roanoke, Virginia. This dream belonged to Marina Trejo, the founder and owner of Dream Dance & Fitness Studio. Born and raised in Mexico, Marina brought with her a vibrant energy and a lifelong passion for sports and dance. Her journey with dance began at just seven years old, and her dedication transformed her into a beacon of joy and leadership in the fitness and dance world.

With 13 years of experience and certifications as a group fitness instructor and personal trainer, Marina became known to her clients and fellow dance lovers as 'She Who Dances with Joy.' Her passion isn’t just about movement—it’s about helping others discover purpose, confidence, and happiness through dance.

In 2021, Marina’s remarkable contributions to her community and her role as a Latina professional leader were recognized by the Latinas Network, which honored her as an inspiration and role model, especially for young girls.

Dream Dance & Fitness Studio quickly gained recognition for its unique offerings. As the only dance business on the East Coast specializing in Quinceañera dance choreography, Dream Dance has become a cornerstone for these cherished coming-of-age celebrations in Latin American culture. From expertly choreographed routines to dynamic dance fitness classes offered in both English and Spanish, the studio continues to captivate and inspire an ever-growing community.

At the heart of Dream Dance is Marina’s belief in the power of shared knowledge. Her vision is to build a vibrant dance community where learning, joy, and connection thrive together. With every step and every spin, Dream Dance is creating a legacy—one that celebrates culture, movement, and the limitless possibilities of dreams.

OUR PURPOSE

Our Mission

At Dream Dance & Fit, our mission is to inspire and uplift our community through the transformative power of dance and fitness. We create a supportive space where individuals can explore their creativity, build meaningful connections, and celebrate the beauty of cultural diversity. Dance is more than movement—it is a path to physical vitality, emotional joy, and a deeper appreciation for life.

Our Values

Embracing Diversity: We celebrate the beauty of multiculturalism, fostering understanding and appreciation for diverse traditions, stories, and experiences.
Equality and Respect: We treat every individual with fairness and dignity, creating a space where all feel valued and supported.
Empowerment Through Dance and Fitness: We believe in dance and fitness as a tool for self-discovery, helping individuals grow in confidence and connect with their unique potential.
Connection and Community: Dance strengthens relationships and builds bonds, reminding us of the importance of family, friends, and shared joy.
Excellence and Passion: We are committed to providing high-quality dance and fitness experiences, blending professional expertise with a genuine love for the art form.

By staying true to these values, we empower individuals to find joy, purpose, and harmony, contributing to a brighter, more connected world.

MEET THE DREAM DANCE STUDIO TEAM

Born in Arcadia, Florida, and raised in Roanoke, Virginia, Saheli Vilchis Trejo is a second-generation Mexican American whose passion for dance was inspired by her mother, a dancer and studio owner. Saheli’s journey in dance began at the age of 8 with ballet, but financial constraints led her to step away from formal lessons after a year. Despite this, her love for movement never wavered. During her break from dance, Saheli stayed active by learning karate and playing on a competitive travel soccer team.

Her mother’s dedication to the art of dance reignited Saheli’s passion when their family opened Roanoke’s first dance studio dedicated to Quinceanera choreography. At age 14, as she prepared for her own Quinceanera, Saheli began choreographing and assisting in the family business. This experience not only solidified her love for dance but also allowed her to hone her skills under the guidance of her mother, who became her coach and mentor.

Since 2022, Saheli has been teaching and choreographing dance shows professionally, helping individuals and groups create memorable performances. In 2023, she founded Dreamers International Dance Team, a groundbreaking ensemble in the Roanoke community. Within its first year, the team has earned recognition as the only local group showcasing a diverse range of dance styles from cultures around the world at community festivals and events.

Saheli’s journey reflects her commitment to preserving and celebrating culture through dance, while inspiring others to express themselves through movement.

With over 20 years of experience, Miguel Mendoza is a passionate dancer and educator who honed his skills for more than 5 years in Mexico. Since 2009, he has taught various dance styles, notably contributing to the Catholic Church of San Gerardo. A recipient of awards such as second place in Oaxaca’s regional dances and first place in Huapango Tamaulipeco, his repertoire includes traditional dances from Veracruz, Chiapas, Jalisco, Nayarit, Tamaulipas, and more. In 2023, he co-founded the first Mexican folklore team in Roanoke, VA, alongside Dream Dance Studio, where he serves as the main folklore instructor, promoting culture at local and regional events.

Andrea Milena Arenales Julio
Andrea Milena Arenales Born In Colombia Julio brings a wealth of experience and passion to our team as a cheerleading, gymnastics, and dance coach. Her journey began in 2013 at the Institute Nuestra Señora del Pilar, where she discovered her love for coaching and mentoring students. Over the years, Andrea has worked with various schools, including the Cooperative College of Bucaramanga and New Cambridge College, helping young athletes develop their skills in cheerleading, gymnastics, and dance.

In addition to her coaching roles, Andrea has choreographed dynamic routines for interclass competitions, blending creativity with technical precision. She has also specialized in hip-hop and cheerleading fusion, fostering both athleticism and artistic expression among her students.

Since 2024, Andrea has been a proud member of Dreamer’s International Dance Team and is now bringing her expertise to our studio. She will be leading the Dance Power Hour class every Thursday, sharing her energy and enthusiasm with our community.

Andrea’s dedication to inspiring confidence, teamwork, and growth makes her an invaluable addition to our team.