Janiyah Rogers dancing her way to Paris
By Alisha Reese, CMT
JA Health Writer
At just 17 years old, Janiyah Rogers is already proving what dedication, discipline, and passion can create. The Jackson native and performing arts student has spent years balancing choir, intensive dance training, and many performances. She is a rising senior at Murrah High School and remains deeply committed to her academic success as well.
Rogers’ dance journey began with majorette classes at the Dollhouse Dance Factory. After attending summer camp there, she discovered a growing interest in ballet and later joined the Lindsey Claire Dance Company, where she trained for several years and experienced competitive dance. Throughout her journey, her family made a conscious effort to ensure dance remained her choice and never something she felt pressured to pursue. When Rogers decided she wanted to explore something different, her family fully supported that decision.
During her break from dancing, her mother, Mrs. Tamekia Rogers, met someone wearing Judah School of Performing Arts apparel while working at an OBGYN clinic during the COVID-19 pandemic. What seemed like a simple conversation became a moment of alignment that opened the door to a new chapter for Rogers with Judah.
Her initial classes with Judah were virtual, but once in-person classes resumed, she was not feeling it. For an entire month after joining Judah, she came home every day from class and literally quit. The classes were hard, the instructors were tough, and she did not want to go back. But beneath all the frustration, her mother recognized something deeper. The instructors were pushing Rogers because they saw potential in her that she had not fully seen in herself yet.
Years later, what once felt difficult became exciting. Judah has become more than a dance studio; it is now part of Rogers’ identity. Six years later, the same young girl who once wanted to quit after every class is now thriving within a demanding schedule that would overwhelm many adults. As a student at Murrah High School, Rogers participates in the school’s performing arts program through APAC and also trains through its sister school, Wells APAC.
While many people only see the performances and applause, few realize she trains five days a week. Some evenings involve multiple back-to-back classes after already dancing throughout the school day. Yet despite the exhaustion, she continues to show up for herself.
When asked how she maintains balance, Rogers answered with honesty that resonated deeply: “I let my future push me.”
Some days she does not want to do it. Some days she wants to stay home. But she keeps going because she sees her future clearly. She wants to dance professionally. She wants success. And that vision pushes her forward even when the motivation is not there.
That mindset has already begun opening extraordinary doors.
Earlier this year, she auditioned for the Debbie Allen Dance Academy and was accepted. Soon after, she auditioned for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and received acceptance there as well. While her parents were trying to decide between Los Angeles and New York, an unexpected opportunity changed everything.
While Mrs. Rogers was on her way to work, she received a call from Amber Jones, Artistic Director and Owner of Judah School of Performing Arts. Rogers was offered a partial scholarship opportunity through the Graham for Europe Summer Intensive Program, allowing her to study internationally in either Greece or Paris.
The moment felt surreal for her family, especially because Paris had been part of her imagination since childhood. Years earlier, on a Christmas morning, Rogers opened a shirt covered in Eiffel Towers and excitedly affirmed, “I’m going to Paris.”
At the time, it sounded like the joyful imagination of a little girl. Now, years later, it feels like a planted seed in full bloom. This interview also revealed the emotional side of parenting gifted children. Mrs. Rogers described herself and her husband as being “along for the ride” now, watching in awe as opportunities continue to find their daughter. Her brothers proudly rave to their friends about her performances. Her parents continue to encourage her growth while allowing her voice to lead the way.
Even after facing rejection from Alvin Ailey the previous year in Texas, Rogers refused to quit. Instead, she used that rejection as fuel. And this year, not only was she accepted, but she also had the opportunity to dance with one of her favorite Ailey dancers, another full-circle moment that reminded everyone watching that persistence often transforms rejection into redirection.
More than anything, this story reflects the importance of community encouragement, especially for young people pursuing dreams that require discipline, courage, and resilience. Rogers’ story is not simply about dance. It is about commitment, alignment, family support, and the power of continuing forward even when things become difficult.
When asked what message she wanted to leave with other young people in Jackson, Mississippi, her response was simple but powerful:
“If you have a passion for it, keep working toward it. Even if it gets hard, just keep going.”
And perhaps that is the real heartbeat of this story. Not just her talent. Not just an opportunity. But the willingness to keep showing up for your dreams long before the world applauds them.
Special shoutout to Rogers’ amazing support system as well. Her village has been with her every step of the way, encouraging her dreams, supporting her journey, and helping her remain grounded throughout it all. Dad Dustin Rogers, Mom Tamekia Rogers, and brothers Jayen and Jordan Rogers are incredibly proud of all she continues to accomplish. The family also gives a special thank you to Judah School of Performing Arts.
Take Action Now: Help Janiyah Dance in Paris – At this time, the family is currently asking for community support through the GoFundMe platform organized by Mrs. Tamekia Rogers: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-janiyah-dance-in-paris. The deadline is June 30th. Competition is July 6th-15th.
(Photos: BJxn Media Group)
