Meet our PJ ambassador: Kheanna Walker
Kheanna Walker is an international pole artist & instructor based in Glasgow, UK. She is also our Creative Lead and ambassador here at Pole Junkie. Find out more about our inspirational ambassador in this short and sweet Q&A.
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Pole is not all sunshine and rainbows. It takes a grit, dedication, pain, sweat & hard work. What you see on IG is just the highlights - what goes on behind the scenes is a lot of fails, repetition and sometimes even lack of drive and motivation... but if you want it bad enough, you can make create a wonderful life for yourself working in this industry.
Kheanna Walker
What is your hometown and where did you start your pole journey?
I started my pole journey at Fitness Evolution in Montreal, Canada in 2015. I then moved to Australia for 2 years where I trained in Melbourne and Sydney. That is where I started competing and teaching pole. I also met my Scottish partner there, and that's what brought me to Glasgow, Scotland.
What made you want to start pole?
I saw somebody make a post about poledancing classes near me, and I thought, "why not give it a try?" I'm a big advocate for not knocking ANYTHING until you try it. And I'm sooo happy I did! It literally changed my life.
What are your fave kinds of tricks?
I love big dynamic tricks that require a lot of strength, flexibility and power. This goes for aerial, basework & floorwork tricks.
What kind of career would you have if you didn't become a professional poledancer?
Before pursuing pole as a career, I saw myself becoming a journalist/TV reporter. I have a degree in Communication Studies where I specialized in video production... so I probably would have been working in the media/entertainment industry.
Who has heavily influenced your pole style?
I would have to say Gracie Buntine and Miss Filly! My pole journey really started when I moved to Australia. I started competing and teaching in Melbourne, which is where they are both based. Gracie was my main pole instructor at Pole Divas and I would do private lessons with Filly to prep for my competitions. It honestly feels like a lifetime ago, but I'm so grateful to have been surrounded by such strong and powerful women who inspired me to go after my dreams.
What has been your biggest achivement in your pole career?
My biggest achievement has been winning my first professional title this year at Pole Theatre UK in the Classique category. I am also very proud to be Pole Junkie's Creative Lead & brand ambassador.
What advice do you have for people who are wanting to pursue a career as a pole instructor?
1) Don't compare yourself to others. Stay in your own lane and stay focused on you and your goals.
2) Don't settle for anything that doesn't fulfill you. You can create the life you dream of living.
3) Your mind is your biggest asset, but also your biggest enemy. Mental fitness is no different than physical fitness. You need to work on your mindset if you want to achieve great things in life.
