Homegrown Business: Vanessa Imrie of Nessa Soca Fitness

Nessa Soca Fitness is a local business in Montreal that provides group exercise classes called “Socacize,” which are fun, exciting, and judgment-free workouts. Socacize training blends real Caribbean African dancing with efficient training techniques. We spoke with founder and licensed socacize instructor Vanessa Imrie to learn more.

Nessa Soca Fitness

What is your business called and what does it do?

Nessa Soca Fitness, I teach Socacize classes which are group fitness classes: Socacize Fitness combines authentic Caribbean African dance with effective fitness moves for a fun, exhilarating and non-judgemental workout experience.

What made you want to do this work?

I have always loved dance and fitness. Soca and calypso music are part of my heritage and give me so much energy. I love people, soca music, fitness and a good sweat! A few years ago I suffered from a lower back injury. I couldn’t walk, stand, sit or basically do anything physical without intense pain. During my recovery time, I decided that I would get certified to share my passion and become an instructor. This was a win-win situation since it would keep me moving which was necessary for me to maintain my back and overall body health all the while encouraging others to do the same!

What problem did you want to solve with the business?

My goal is to get people active and create a community. I wanted to offer a fun and effective way to work out and share positive energy and good vibes!

Who are your clientele/demographics?

Socacize is open to everyone, generally, my clientele tends to be females between 30 to 60 years on average. We encourage all to join!

How does your business make money? How does it work?

By offering classes (sessions) for a fee, clients can drop in or purchase passes or a full session package. I may also get hired by organizations to offer classes to their clientele and/or members.

Where in the city can we find your profession?

Various locations such as the West Island (DDO), Cote-des-Neiges and downtown Montreal right now, new locations may get added, stay tuned!

What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.

How are the classes? “The classes are so much fun and a great workout, I’m sweating! Vanessa’s energy, positivity and passion keep me coming back!”

What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?

Getting to share dance fitness with others and spreading joy and healthy habits. I wouldn’t say “worst” as it is part of being in business and I learn a lot but what is more difficult is spreading the word and marketing my business, it requires a lot of work outside of preparing for and teaching the classes.

What is your favourite joke about your own profession?

How many dance teachers does it take to change a light bulb? Five!…Six!…Seven!…Eight!

Where can we follow you?

Instagram | Facebook | Email

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?

Here are 2: Sara’s Sea Moss and SheaDrea Skin and Hair Care