Jia Ballentine-Zhu

Jia’s dance journey didn’t begin in childhood. At 21, she took her first ballet class—and never looked back. She went on to earn certifications in ballet, train in New York, and explore improvisation, folk dance and Eastern movement practices. Over the years, she has facilitated movement programs for diverse groups. She has also collaborated with other artists to create original works.

Through it all, dance became her sanctuary—helping her navigate stress, major life transitions, and moments of uncertainty.

During pregnancy and after the birth of her first child in 2023, Jia experienced dance in a new way. Movement became a source of emotional strength, a way to prepare for birth and a special way to bond with her baby. This deepened her belief in movement as a universal language that nurtures both body and soul.

With a background in anthropology, Jia brings a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and sees movement as a powerful tool for connection and growth. Inspired by nature and the beauty of simple things, she continues to explore new ways of moving and dancing.

Prenatal & Well-being Certifications

• Qualified Babywearing Consultant – Australian Babywearing Association

• Pregnant & Post Natal Training for Personal Trainers – Women’s Fitness Education

• First Aid & Mental Health First Aider

Dance & Movement Training

• Presenter on Inclusive Dance Teaching – Dance and the Child Conference, Slovenia, 2025

• Advanced 1 Certification in Classical Ballet (Merit) – Royal Academy of Dance (4000+ hours), 2021

• How Movement Works Intensive – Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, London, 2020

• Full-Time Contemporary Dance Study – Martha Graham School, New York City, 2017-18

• Intermediate Cecchetti Ballet (Merit) – 2016

• Flamenco (Grade 3–4, Allianz syllabus) – 2016

Diversity & Facilitation

• BA Anthropology – Australian National University

• Working with Diversity – TAFE

• Group Facilitation Training – Groupwork Centre