Walker Dances his way to Missy Elliot Music Video

Juwaan Walker

Posted by: admin on November 17, 2015, 8 Comments

At five years old Juwaan Walker was busy performing dance routines between couches in the middle of his family’s living room. As his skills began to improve, Walker realized that his passion for dance was enhanced by his undeniable talent. Competitions came, and Walker conquered. Now, years later, the East Stroudsburg University sophomore from Piscataway, N.J., will be dancing on a bigger stage with Hip-Hop Queen Missy Elliot. Elliot has been making music since 1994, received hundreds of awards, and was featured in last year’s Super Bowl half-time performance. Come December, Walker will receive his own spotlight when he is featured dancing in one of Elliot’s music videos.

Dancing has always been an important hobby in Walker’s life. He started young with guidance from his cousins. But when Walker was only in sixth grade his cousin, Edward “Eddie” Griffin, passed away, and that became the catalyst that made Walker pay attention to the evolution of new dance styles he could master.

“He and I were very close, and dancing brought us together,” said Walker.

Though coping with the death of his cousin was difficult, Walker did not give it the power to discourage his focus. Dance became even more of an influence in his life, and he thrived on it. After competing in numerous competitions, Walker decided to go for something big. Over the summer, he came across the “Sharaya J & Missy Elliot Banji Certified Dance Competition.” The competition gives unknown dancers a chance to perform in an upcoming Missy Elliot music video. Without any hesitation, Walker drove to New Jersey for the audition process. The following weeks were spent waiting by the telephone.

“I started to feel like I hadn’t gotten the part. Hundreds of people auditioned, so the odds weren’t really in my favor,” Walker said.

A couple of months later, he received news that made “his entire world stop.” The part was his. Walker was told that he would appear in a Missy Elliot music video.

“It was insane. I was holding the phone and felt at that moment everything was perfect. I gave it my all, and it paid off.” Walker said.

If there ever was a testament to “doing it all” while in college, Walker would be its cosigner. He wears many hats at East Stroudsburg University. If you see him around campus, there is a good possibility that he will be dressed in football gear, walking with his books for class, ready for a track meet, or attending a step team meeting. He admits that his busy lifestyle comes with its own set of challenges; however, he knows where his priorities lie.

“School is always first. If I don’t do well in school, I am unable to do the other things I love. ESU has allowed me to branch out in the best way possible,” said the athletic training major.

Walker’s practices will intensify during the upcoming weeks to prepare for his video debut. Understandably there is a great deal of pressure, to which Walker says “I will do my best, and that’s good enough for me.”



8 Responses to “Walker Dances his way to Missy Elliot Music Video”


Keep shooting for the stars because you’re already on the road to become one! Congrats!


YES!!!!


It’s just nice to see positive things from my community!!


Tonyah Walker (Mother)

Posted November 18, 2015 at 6:55 AM

My son Juwaan has always set his mind on something and put 110% into achieving it. Every since he was a little boy. No matter what it was. He said mommy I can do that and he did it. Juwaan you know that your father and I are your #1 fans, we support you in everything you do. We love you very much. We are so PROUD of you. Watching you grow from our little boy to our young man has truly been our blessing from God.


Ju’waan words can’t explain how proud I am of your achievements,your drive and dreams are becoming reality,the goals your setting and doing may surprise others but those that’s been around you and supported you knows what you’re capable of doing, ,love you and stay focused as well as being humble


Congratulations and all the best!


John Paul (Cousin)

Posted November 25, 2015 at 11:01 AM

It’s 11/25/2015 they day before thanksgiving and I’m smiling/tearing while at my desk working. More than proud of the young man you have become, for more than your accomplishments but how you’ve accomplished them. You’ve displayed an effort and drive that many can’t find within themselves. I’m thankful to have a cousin who will bless this world with many talents and memories.