Proudly sponsored by Nelson Auto Glass Specialists
At just 24, Jess Hannah is already a powerful force in our local dance and wellness scene – and a clear choice as this month’s Local Legend. A passionate and tireless teacher of both dance and Pilates, Jess works with everyone from toddlers to seniors, offering movement as a way to heal, strengthen, connect and thrive. Nominated by Maree Hanford, Jess is described as someone who “inspires many young dancers and encourages with her passion and endless energy. She works long hours to ensure others get the opportunity to learn, grow, recover – and enjoy the joy of dance.”
For Jess, that passion runs deep. She began dancing at the age of three, starting with ballet before branching into jazz and contemporary. “Dance has been a constant in my life,” she says. “It’s shaped not just my physical ability but my creativity, discipline, and love for movement.” Pilates, too, entered Jess’s life early. At 17, she began using it to recover from a back injury. “What started as a necessity quickly became a passion,” she explains. “I saw how effective it was for core strength, posture and body awareness – and I wanted to share that with others.”
Jess began her teaching journey at 16 under the guidance of local dance mentor Peta Spooner. By 18, she was a fully qualified instructor with the International Dance Teachers Association (IDTA), and since 2022, she has expanded her expertise with multiple Pilates certifications. But what drives her? “The positive impact movement can have on people’s lives. Whether it’s helping someone build confidence through dance or improve their wellbeing through Pilates, it’s incredibly rewarding.”
Dance isn’t just about performance, she says. It’s about people. “Dance is joyful and empowering. It teaches life skills like resilience and teamwork, and it creates a strong sense of community. It brings people together, often in unexpected ways.” As someone who gives so much to others, we’re proud to say thank you to Jess – and celebrate her as a true Nelson Auto Glass Specialists Local Legend.
