Nineteen-year-old Amanda LaCount is shattering stereotypes in today’s dance industry. Proud of her figure, the teen conquers commercial dance with boundless confidence, practicing body positivity and encouraging others to stray from the “skinny dancer” norm. Through her campaign “#breakingthestereotype,” LaCount inspires dancers of all shapes and sizes to ignore the haters and own what makes them unique. Indeed, that optimistic mindset is what led her to a role in Katy Perry’s “Swish Swish” music video, as well as appearances on reality shows such as Dancing with the Stars and The Voice. Read up on LaCount’s empowering journey for inspiration on how to embrace your own individuality.

When did you first develop your passion for dancing?

I started dancing at the age of two because I had two older sisters that danced. When my mom drove them to dance classes, I’d watch them through the window and dance around. Later, around age nine, I realized that dance was my passion and dropped my other extracurricular activities, which included figure skating and all-star cheerleading.

How are you shattering barriers in the dance world?

I’ve been told by dance teachers, peers, parents, studio owners, and even Richard Simmons that I can’t be a dancer because I‘m too fat. I’ve shattered the stereotypes that dancers have to be tall and thin by my successes in the dance world.

What is the main message you would like to get across through your platform?

I’d like to inspire everyone to follow their dreams and not worry about what other people might say or think. If you love it, do it. It's as simple as that.

What is the most challenging part of your career?

The most challenging part is when I walk into a dance class or an audition and ‘the look’ that says, “Who does she think she is? What is she doing here?” I have to dance twice as well as anyone else just to be acknowledged as a good dancer. Otherwise, people are too busy worrying about my body type to even notice my skills.

What tips can you give others on how to be their most confident selves?

Loving yourself is the first step. The next is not to compare yourself to others. Everyone is on their own journey, and comparing yourself to others only hurts you. It‘s like comparing apples to oranges.

What was it like working with ‪Katy Perry‬ in her “Swish Swish” video?

‪Katy Perry was amazing. She was very sweet and had watched a lot of videos on my Instagram. In between filming, she just sat on the sidelines in a folding chair with her dog, Nugget, and her blanket. She was talking to everyone, and we all had a great time during the shoot.‬

Any memorable behind-the-scenes from dancing on The Ellen Show that you can share?

When Keala Settle arrived on set, the first thing she did was come to the green room where the other dancers and I were. She came in and hugged me for five minutes, not saying a thing. It was very surreal, and I’ll never forget it. She still supports me and my dancing to this day. I’m honored to call her a friend.

What were your experiences on Dancing With the Stars and The Voice like? Did you have a preference?

Both were great experiences, but I really loved dancing with Disney’s Descendants 2 cast on DWTS.

What are your future plans?

I plan to keep training and following my dreams of continuing to dance professionally. I’d like to travel and teach more master classes as well as dance for a major artist on a national or international tour. I also aim to choreograph more.