Program empowers teen girls through belly dance, art

When Malia Elmer first saw a belly dancing performance at the annual mango festival, she was captivated. The 15-year-old Konawaena High School sophomore said she fell in love with the movements, but also the grace, confidence and attitude exhibited by the women dancing.

“I love dance, but have never been a kind of ballet or hula type girl,” Elmer said. “I was intrigued by this tribal style of dancing at first because it looked like a fun way to become fit, coordinated and more confident. Through my participation, I learned it was more than just a fun exercise. I learned more about myself.”

— West Hawaii Today