In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Journey Dance Connection was born as the first-ever, all-teen faculty dance convention. At just 17-years-old, founder Jesse Kohn envisioned a platform where the next generation of creatives could lead, educate, and inspire, all while providing a welcoming and inspiring space for dancers to grow. In a time when the world felt disconnected, Jesse brought the dance community together in a new way offering a bold, fresh shift in the convention industry. The original goal was to be a one-time virtual convention, but after the overwhelming support, Jesse knew this was something that could not be over.
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Within just four months, Journey Dance Connection hosted multiple virtual workshops and even an in-person event in New Jersey, proving that innovation and passion could thrive in the most challenging times.
 
The journey didn’t stop there…
 
In order to continue the journey, we knew we needed to reach studios from all over, which led to Journey Across America. Journey Across America is a cross-country RV tour where the JDC team works with dance studios across the country, offering workshops, choreography, and an unforgettable experiences. The tour has made its trip ‘round the country in 2024 and 2025, reaching over 700 students from 20 dance studios.
 
Journey Dance Connection also proudly offers opportunities for emerging artists through opportunities like the Journey Dance Awards. The Journey Dance Awards is a choreography showcase designed for emerging artists 24-and-under. Participants present original work, receive personal feedback from industry professionals, earn scholarships and cash prizes, and leave with professional footage of their work. Events have been hosted in both Southern California and New York City, spotlighting the next generation of choreographers in a professional and uplifting setting.
 
At Journey Dance Connection, our goal is to connect artists with opportunities in spaces where they are seen, supported, and inspired to grow. Whether we’re visiting your studio on the road, hosting a convention, showcasing new voices in choreography, or anything in between, we strive to uplift the dancer and the human being.
 
We believe that dance is a journey and we can’t wait to be a part of yours.