Founder: Charlie Blair / Enterprise: The Blair Academy / Discipline: Dance / Location: London

More about their enterprise:

The Blair Academy is a social enterprise, which uses Hip Hop dance to boost Health and Happiness in Care and Community settings.

Taking inspiration from her own experiences as a dancer, a homeless teenager, and working in care homes, Charlie was drawn to hip hop for its characteristic embracing of individuality. She tested the concept with her Nanny Doreen back in 2018, and it was her who encouraged Charlie to take the sessions to other older people.

As with many businesses, COVID-19 presented a number of challenges for Blair Academy. They were forced to quickly adapt their offering to deliver virtual sessions but getting to grips with these new ways of working actually allowed them to reach new geographical markets and expand their business.

Trailblazers in Healthy, Happy Ageing, the Academy’s diverse team boasts an impressive mix of performers, carers and therapists with an inclusive approach.

DBACE Winner

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