More Than Dance…We Build Diamonds!
Dazzling Diamonds is committed to encouraging all dancers to strive for excellence and enjoy the journey along the way!
About Dazzling Diamonds Dance Academy
Our Mission
Our mission is to instill a great love of dance, while inspiring self-confidence, discipline and respect of the performing arts. We inspire every dancer to find the creativity inside herself/himself as we dance to express ourselves and to tell a story.
Meet our Dancers
Dazzling Diamonds accept girls and boys ages 5 to 19. Our dancers range in different ages and most of them have different levels of dance experience. They are all passionate about dance and committed to excellence. Get to know our talented Diamonds as they shine on their journey and telling their story through the art of dance.
Our Vision
Our Vision
Our vision is to empower and uplift youth through the art of dance while inspiring change within our community. At Dazzling Diamonds Dance Academy, we cultivate excellence, discipline, and confidence in every dancer. Through our performances, education, and community involvement, we not only create beautiful dancers but compassionate lead
Our vision is to empower and uplift youth through the art of dance while inspiring change within our community. At Dazzling Diamonds Dance Academy, we cultivate excellence, discipline, and confidence in every dancer. Through our performances, education, and community involvement, we not only create beautiful dancers but compassionate leaders who will make a difference in the world. We will build an environment where dancing dreams are shared throughout our community. We will create change in our world's future through our dancers. We will strive for excellence and accept only positive thinking. Dazzling Diamonds will promote strong self-confidence, self-respect, discipline, and appreciation through fine arts of dance.
About the Founder
Yolanda Cole is the proud Founder of Dazzling Diamonds Dance Academy, established in August 2023. Dance has always been a part of who she is—woven into her heart, spirit, and story. To her, dance is more than movement; it is a language of the heart.
Her journey began many years ago as a dancer, where she trained under the direction of Diane Rogers and Michael Files—an experience that ignited her lifelong passion for performance and deepened her appreciation for discipline and artistry. Over the years, she has explored various styles, including African, hip hop, and praise dance, each shaping her unique expression.
During high school, Yolanda took on a leadership role in the African American Club, organizing Elmhurst High School’s first talent show—an experience that strengthened her commitment to the performing arts.
Today, through Dazzling Diamonds Dance Academy, she is dedicated to creating a positive and inspiring environment where young dancers can grow in confidence, discipline, and self-expression. Her mission is to empower youth to follow their dreams, embrace their individuality, and tell their stories through dance.
Coach
Destanie Simone is a Fort Wayne, Indiana native whose passion for dance began at the age of two. With a strong foundation in ballet and contemporary, Destanie has spent her life devoted to the art of movement and the joy of teaching others to express themselves through dance.
She received four years of intensive ballet training at New American Youth Ballet (now known as Project Ballet), where she performed lead roles in iconic ballets including *Snow White*, *The Nutcracker*, and *Sleeping Beauty*. Her exceptional talent was recognized early on when she won first place in the Junior Category of the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) ballet competition, earning an invitation to the national finals in New York City.
Destanie’s dedication to her craft has opened doors to elite opportunities. She earned a scholarship to the prestigious Netherlands Dans Theater and attended the School of American Ballet’s summer program in NYC on full scholarship from ages 12 to 14. At 16, she was awarded a full scholarship to the Alvin Ailey Summer Program, followed by a full scholarship to their year-round program. She later trained on full scholarship at the Dance Theatre of Harlem’s year-round program as well.
With over 10 years of teaching experience, Destanie now shares her expertise and passion with aspiring dancers in her community. Her mission is to inspire and nurture the next generation of dancers, fostering confidence, creativity, and discipline through the transformative power of dance.