GUTS Dance

From a shy nine-year-old to a confident young woman embarking on a dance career, Jasmine’s story is a powerful example of how community and creativity can change a life.

Jasmine's Story

Programs like Brave Bodies and Alice Can Dance gave me the strength and resilience I need – not just in dancing, but in life. – Jasmine McGinness

My name is Jasmine McGinness and I am a proud Gurindji and Kungarakany woman from Central Australia. I started dancing with GUTS when I was nine years old, through the Alice Can Dance program at Sadadeen Primary School. That was back in 2013. Now I’m 18, and I’ve been involved in 11 out of the 12 years the program has been running.

From the very beginning, dance gave me something I didn’t have before: a place to be myself. I felt safe, supported and encouraged to express my identity. Being part of GUTS has helped me grow in so many ways. I’ve become stronger – physically, emotionally, and mentally. Over the years, I’ve participated in weekly studio classes, the Brave Bodies program, and countless performances. These programs connect me not just to my love of dance, but to other young women who understand what it’s like to face racism and sexism. In Brave Bodies, we dance, but we also talk about our feelings, check in with each other, and learn about boundaries and respect. It’s a space created for us, by people who listen and care.

Without GUTS, I honestly don’t know where I’d be. These programs helped me realise that I want to pursue a career in dance. This year, I’ll audition for NAISDA, Australia’s only fulltime dance school for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people. GUTS has given me the training to take this next step and the confidence to believe I belong there. But even more than that, it’s given me a sense of belonging here in Mparntwe/Alice Springs. I’ve seen how much GUTS means to our community, how it gives young people a reason to believe in themselves – and I feel proud to be a part of that.

Photo credit: Lisa Hatz Photography

About GUTS Dance

Based in Alice Springs, GUTS Dance empowers young people through inclusive dance and wellbeing experiences that build confidence, celebrate identity, and strengthen community connection. Their approach is grounded in intercultural respect, youth-led feedback, and creative expression. GUTS works closely with educators, elders, families and local organisations to ensure their programs are accessible, responsive, and impactful. Designed to reach young people who may feel alienated by traditional arts or education settings, GUTS programs are free or low-cost, built around consistent, long-term relationships, and centre care and accessibility. Whether through iconic community events like Alice Can Dance, or smaller group programs like Brave Bodies, GUTS ensures every young person has the chance to see themselves as creative, capable, and valued.

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