Today we’d like to introduce you to Doreen Faaloua.
Hi Doreen, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started LaniSina Polynesian Dance Academy in the simplest and most meaningful way, through love. After having my kids with my amazing partner Danny Cedano, my connection to Polynesian culture grew even deeper. I wanted them to feel the same joy, pride, and grounding that dance gave me. I wanted to pass down everything I’ve learned, everything I’ve lived, and everything that was poured into me by the people who raised and inspired me.
My journey truly began with my beloved guardians, Mema Jenny and Papa Sasina. They were the foundation of my world, and without their love and guidance, none of this would exist. I also began dancing at a young age at the Makahiki Luau at SeaWorld under Netane Production, a place that shaped me, challenged me, and gave me a second family. I’m forever grateful that the Netane family is still in my life today. They, along with my sisters, brothers, aunties, and uncles who guided me when I was young, are a huge part of why I am who I am.
Remembering where I came from reminded me why my desire to teach my own children naturally grew into something bigger. I realized there were others who wanted to walk this journey with me — to learn, to connect, to feel seen, and to be part of a community rooted in culture and heart. That’s how LaniSina was born.
I am where I am today because of the incredible people who stand with me, near and far. My students especially are the heartbeat of this academy. They are the reason our school has grown into such a beautiful, safe, and supportive community. Their dedication, their trust, and their love have shaped LaniSina into more than a dance school — it’s a family.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Has it been a smooth road? Absolutely not, nothing worth building ever is. The truth is, this journey has had its highs and lows, and I’ve had to learn how to push through every season. You win some, you lose some, and sometimes you just have to hold on and trust that you’ll make it through the hard moments.
For me, staying humble has always been the anchor. I remind myself to keep learning, to stay inspired, and to grow alongside my students. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy. There are days where I cry, where I feel frustrated, lost, or overwhelmed because things aren’t going the way I hoped. I’ve lost people along the way, I’ve been betrayed, and I’ve had moments where I questioned everything.
Running a school while being a mom and a partner is its own challenge. Balancing all of that takes strength, patience, and a lot of grace. But I also believe that struggle is part of life. If you never face challenges, something is off because growth comes from the hard parts, not the easy ones.
What keeps me going is the bond I have with my family and students and the love and support from the people who truly stand by me. They are the reason I push forward. They remind me why I started and why I continue. This journey isn’t perfect, but it’s real, and it’s made me who I am today.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a professional Polynesian dancer and currently dance with Polynesian Proud Productions, where I work alongside with the owner, Talani Gagliano, in South Florida. Through dance, I’m able to share my passion for our Polynesian culture with the community. At the moment, I’m taking a brief pause as I prepare to welcome my third child. Even with this break, my heart is still fully in the world of dance. However, I’m the owner of LaniSina Polynesian Dance Academy, where I teach, create, and guide my students through the beauty and depth of Polynesian dance.
Right now, our main focus is ‘Ori Tahiti, but I’m slowly introducing foundational basics from other islands — Samoa, Hawai‘i, Aotearoa, and Tonga. My goal is to help my students understand not just the movement, but the culture, the meaning, and the pride behind each style.
What I’m most proud of isn’t a performance or a title, it’s watching my students transform. Seeing where they started and where they are now fills me with so much joy. I get to witness their confidence grow, their strength build, and their passion deepen. I’ve watched them face challenges, push through, and come out stronger. That growth is everything to me.
I don’t claim that LaniSina is “different” from every other dance school out there. What I can say is that I’m learning and growing right alongside my students. The bond we share, the love we have for each other, and the safe space we’ve created together that’s what makes this place special. Honestly, if anything sets us apart, it’s them. They’re the ones who make me feel special, supported, and inspired every single day.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Something that might surprise people who know me or know LaniSina is how much fear I actually carry behind the scenes. I come across strong, confident, and full of tough love and that part is real but what most people don’t see is how deeply I worry about letting my loved ones or my students down. I hold a lot inside. I try to stay composed, like everything is fine, but the truth is, I’m constantly hoping I’m doing enough for the people who trust me.
I think because I lead with strength, people assume I never struggle with doubt. But I do. I care so much about my family and students’ growth and their dreams that sometimes I’m afraid I won’t be able to give them everything they deserve. That fear sits with me more than anyone realizes.
Another thing people might not know is that I’m not a social butterfly at all. I actually get nervous speaking in front of groups. It’s funny because I can perform in front of a crowd with no hesitation but talking to that same crowd is a whole different story. Dance has always been my safest language. I express myself better through movement, emotion, and storytelling than I ever could with words.
So while people see the leader, the teacher, the director… behind that is someone who feels deeply, who loves fiercely, and who is always trying her best to show up for her community, even when she’s scared.
Pricing:
- $60 Monthly Membership (ages 13+)
- $30 Monthly Membership(ages 12 and Under)
- $25 for Single Class (ages 13+)
- $15 for Single Class (Ages 12 and Under)
- Offer Private as well.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Lanisina.com
- Instagram: lanisinapolynesian
