Aliya “Valentine,” a student at Cal State Dominguez Hills, overcomes religious barriers to pursue higher education and dance.
On a Sunday morning, some people, including Valentine’s partner Shae Archer, enjoy the opportunity to relax before heading into another week of work. While Archer relaxes, Valentine works out and stretches because she is getting ready for an unparalleled opportunity CSU Summer Arts Program. The intensive summer program will allow Valentine to enhance her skills as a dancer and give her a chance to work with instructors from Diavolo Institute and Lux Aeterna.
Valentine, born in Long Beach California, was raised in Saudi Arabia, a place where “respectable” girls are taught not to dance and to respect the decisions made for them by their male family members. Her love of dance and education prompted her to leave her family and friends to pursue her dreams in the United States.