Meet Luvabull Imani

Age/Birthday

23 / September 22

Hometown

Chicago, IL

Occupation

Thomas and Herbert Consulting/Student

College

Bachelor of Arts in Print Journalism from Howard University

Nickname(s)

IJ

Ethnic Background

African American

Dance Experience

My love of dance probably extends back to my first steps (and was reinforced by Janet Jackson’s “Rhythm Nation” video) and I’ve subsequently been trained in ballet, various modern techniques, jazz, hip hop, and tap. As a child, I began instruction at the Detroit Windsor Dance Academy, Reach for the Stars, and Studio One Dance Conservatory (now Studio One Dance Theater). In high school, I was a member of the Whitney M. Young Magnet High School Dance Department (Stage and Performance) as well as the Guys and Dolls Dance Team. As I continued my education, I couldn’t give up my love of dance and went on to join the Howard University Bisonette Dance Ensemble as well as Howard University’s VIZION Performance Team. Post-undergraduate studies, I joined the Chicago Mustang Dancers and currently serve as the team’s co-captain. I also do independent training with ChildsDance.

Lifetime Goal

The funny thing about life is that it’s not about the beginning or the ending points, but really the journey. I want to make sure I live a regret-free life, full of rich and diverse experiences.

Three words that describe me are

Resilient, Driven, and Surprising!

Quote to live by

“One only sees with the heart. Anything essential is invisible to the eyes.” - The Little Prince

Pet Peeve

Carelessness, Insincerity

My claim to fame is...

Being Miss Chicago for the Miss America Organization and a Luvabull!

Most people don’t know this about me...

I’m pretty short. Most people mistakenly think I’m average height until they literally stand next to me. But with a father who is 6’4, a mother who is 5’0, and a sister who is 5’10, I had to be the child who got the runt genes ;)

Years on squad

This is my ROOKIE year!

Why I chose to be a Luvabull

Actually, I was blessed to become a Luvabull! I’ve danced my entire life, so when I came back to the Chicago-area post-undergrad, I wanted nothing more than to perform with such an esteemed team! And why did I choose to dance for the Bulls? Did I mention I grew up during the Jordan years?!

Favorite Holiday

Christmas! I love holiday ham and turkey, and probably know the lyrics to every Christmas carol fathomable (trust me, I tune up around October).

Favorite Movie

The Godfather Part II

Best Quality

I’m a good listener

Book I’m reading now

Okay, I’m sure I won’t make the list for “Best Read Luvabull” with this, but I love the Twilight Series. I re-read the books all of the time.

Favorite type of music

Old-school R&B a la Phyllis Hyman and the Isley Brothers

How do friends see you (three words)

Supportive, Nonjudgmental, and Surprising!

My proudest accomplishment to date is...

My proudest moment to date would be winning my first title in a national pageant system and becoming a Luvabull in the same year. This experience is a dream come true. Whoever thought a little girl from the South Side would be able to represent and entertain her city in such a big way?

What is the best gift you have ever received?

My grandmother bought my evening gown for the Miss Illinois competition the week before she passed away. It’s a beautiful beaded gown and it is yellow as that is her favorite color. There’s a saying in pageantry that the girl in the white wins, but in my eyes there was not a more stunning gown in existence.

Ideal Job

Ruling the world ;) J/K! In all seriousness, a job where I get to maximize my creativity without being trapped behind a desk would be ideal. Ruling the world would be a great perk of employment though!

Advice to young dancers

There is no dishonor in giving it a second try! In this world of difficult and challenging auditions, the first try may not be the time for you to make it. However, don’t let pride get in the way of your blessing. I will say without shame that I DID NOT make Luvabulls my first attempt, but I knew that being a member of this team was a goal I had for myself. With that said, I tried a different approach, put in more work, and was able to reach my goal. Remember, abrupt failure is just an opportunity to make a glamorous comeback.