Today we’d like to introduce you to Raquel Rodriguez.
Hi Raquel, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My name is Raquel Rodriguez, and I’m a choreographer, heels instructor, performer, and the founder/director of The Raquettes based in Chicago. Dance has always been a huge part of my life, but over the years it became much more than just a passion. It became my purpose and a way to create opportunities not only for myself, but for other women as well.
Back in 2024, I started The Raquettes because I wanted to create a safe space where women could feel confident, empowered, challenged, and inspired through dance. What began as a small vision quickly grew into a strong team and community of 40+ women who share the same love for dance. I wanted to blend confidence, femininity, technique, and performance quality into something that felt both powerful and authentic to us.
Since starting the team, we’ve had the opportunity to perform at major events including pregame performances for the Chicago Bulls at the United Center, compete and qualify for the World of Dance Summit, debut at Miami and Chicago Fashion Week, and participate in many other live entertainment events. We continue to expand our presence throughout Chicago and beyond.
Where I am today is honestly the result of consistency, resilience, and trusting my vision even during moments of uncertainty. Building a team and personal brand from the ground up hasn’t always been easy, but seeing the impact dance has had on the women around me makes every challenge worth it. Currently, I’m focused on continuing to grow The Raquettes, expanding my dance classes and events, traveling more for dance opportunities, and building a long lasting career in entertainment and artistry. Above all, I want people to remember that dance is more than movement. It’s community, confidence, storytelling, and transformation.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
One of the biggest struggles for me has definitely been learning how to believe in myself as an entrepreneur, especially during moments when doubt creeps in or when there’s a lack of support from the outside. Building something from the ground up is not easy, and there are a lot of moments where you question yourself, your vision, or whether everything you’re doing will truly pay off.
At the same time, those obstacles have always motivated me to work even harder. I’ve always had a strong growth mindset ever since I was a child. Deep down, I’ve always believed that if I truly put my mind to something, I can accomplish it. I know that may sound cliché, but it’s genuinely how I live my life.
My faith has also played a huge role in my journey. Through Jesus Christ, I’ve learned to trust my purpose, understand my “why,” and keep going even during difficult seasons. One verse that continues to inspire me is Psalm 46:5, “God is within her, she will not fall.” That reminder has carried me through many moments of uncertainty and continues to motivate me to keep building, creating, and leading with intention.
Every challenge I’ve faced has pushed me to become more resilient, more creative, and more determined to continue building not only my career, but also opportunities for the women around me through The Raquettes.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a choreographer, heels instructor, performer, and the founder/director of The Raquettes based in Chicago. I specialize in heels choreography, performance training, and creating empowering dance experiences for women through classes, live performances, and entertainment events.
I’m most proud of building The Raquettes from the ground up and growing it into a strong community of over 40 women. Watching the impact dance has had on the confidence, growth, and friendships within the team means everything to me.
What sets me apart is my ability to combine strong performance quality, femininity, storytelling, and leadership while creating a safe and motivating environment for others. I truly care about helping people feel confident both on and off the stage.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.raqquelr.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raqquelr
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@raqquelr
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@raqquelr
