Grace Dada
In Her Shoes
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?
Grace Dada: I am Lady Grace Omolola Dada, a diverse vocalist, music director, and dedicated worship leader whose passion for music and ministry has shaped my journey from a very young age. I was born in Ibadan, Nigeria, to Choirmaster Isaiah B. Dada and Agnes O. Dada, and from the beginning, I was immersed in a world filled with music and faith. When my family moved to America at the age of three, my parents continued to nurture my love for singing, and by the time I was eight years old, I had stepped confidently into my calling as a Worship Leader and Choir Director.
Music has always played a pivotal role in my life. I began playing the trumpet in middle school and participated in the Marching, Concert, and Jazz Bands throughout high school. My dedication and love for music earned me a scholarship to Prairie View A&M University, where I pledged Tau Beta Sigma National Honorary Band Sorority. I continued my education and earned an A.S. from Lone Star College–Kingwood, a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Houston–Downtown, and an M.S. in Organizational Management & Leadership from Springfield College.
My passion for the arts and community led me to found Serenity Performing Arts Academy (SPAA), a faith-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing equal access to performing arts education for children and families in Northeast Houston and surrounding areas. As Artistic Director of SPAA, I lead vocal training, workshops for vocal development, and our Performing Arts Summer Camp, equipping young artists with the tools they need to grow in their craft and confidence.
Above all, I remain deeply committed to my calling as a Worship Leader, using my voice to uplift, inspire, and share the transformative power of music with my community.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
If you have a business, could you describe it and how you started it?
Grace Dada: Serenity Performing Arts Academy (SPAA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit performing arts organization dedicated to providing equal access and exposure to the performing arts for children and families in Northeast Houston and surrounding areas. Since its founding in May 2005, SPAA has been committed to nurturing young talent and encouraging creativity through high-quality arts programming.
The academy was created out of a passion for music, education, and community empowerment, recognizing the need for accessible performing arts opportunities for children who may not otherwise have exposure to such programs. SPAA offers a variety of program activities, vocal training, and workshops designed to help children develop their artistic abilities, build confidence, and cultivate a love for the performing arts.
Through structured programs and engaging experiences, SPAA continues to be a pillar in the community, ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to explore, grow, and express themselves through the arts.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
What would you do differently if you were starting in your industry now?
Grace Dada: If I were starting in my industry now, I would be more aggressive in social media branding. In today's digital landscape, visibility and engagement are key to growing a brand and reaching a wider audience. I would focus on creating consistent, high-quality content, leveraging platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube to showcase the mission and impact of Serenity Performing Arts Academy.
Additionally, I would prioritize collaborations, live engagement, and strategic marketing campaigns to build a stronger online presence. Social media has the power to connect with communities beyond physical locations, and if I had emphasized it earlier, I believe SPAA could have reached even more children and families in need of access to performing arts programs.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
What would you say is the #1 key to success in your business?
Grace Dada: The #1 key to success in my business is confidence—knowing that what I bring to the table is valuable, unique, and necessary. It's important to avoid comparisons and stay focused on my vision and mission. Every business has its journey, and success comes from embracing individuality and believing in the impact of my work. By staying true to my purpose and delivering with passion, I ensure that Serenity Performing Arts Academy continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
What does a typical day in your week look like?
Grace Dada: A typical day for me starts with working 9 to 5 from home for my family business. After that, my focus shifted to my passion—music and community engagement. I hold rehearsals at least twice a week with students from my nonprofit, Serenity Performing Arts Academy, as well as with other community organizations I collaborate with. Each day is a balance of work, leadership, and artistic development, ensuring that I contribute both to my family business and to the mission of providing accessible performing arts education. Whether it’s planning programs, mentoring students, or preparing for performances, my week is always filled with purpose and creativity.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
What have been some of the biggest challenges you've faced as a female entrepreneur in this industry, and how have you overcome them?
Grace Dada: One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as a female entrepreneur is ensuring that I lean in and assert my value, even when others don’t immediately recognize it. In a competitive industry, it can be easy to feel overlooked or underestimated, but I’ve learned that confidence and persistence are key. I’ve overcome this challenge by owning my expertise, staying consistent, and proving my worth through my work. I no longer wait for validation—I create opportunities, build strong relationships, and continue making an impact. By believing in myself and my mission, I ensure that my voice is heard and my contributions are recognized.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
How do you stay creative and innovative in an industry that is constantly evolving and changing?
Grace Dada: I stay creative and innovative by staying connected to the youth—they are my biggest source of inspiration. I make it a priority to keep up with the latest trends, new artistic works, and evolving industry techniques, ensuring that I bring fresh and relevant ideas to my programs.
By continuously learning, adapting, and embracing new styles, I can engage and inspire young artists in meaningful ways. Whether through modern music, emerging performance techniques, or innovative teaching methods, I strive to keep my approach fresh, exciting, and impactful for the next generation.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
How do you network and build relationships within the industry to further your business goals?
Grace Dada: Word of mouth has been my most powerful tool for building relationships and expanding my reach. The impact of my work speaks for itself, and through positive experiences, referrals, and community engagement, I’ve been able to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations.
In addition, I leverage social media to showcase my work, engage with industry professionals, and stay visible within the performing arts community. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook help me connect, collaborate, and create opportunities that align with my mission. By maintaining strong relationships and consistently sharing my vision, I continue to grow my network and further my business goals.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
What are your future plans and goals for your business, and how do you hope to make an impact in the industry?
Grace Dada: My plans for Serenity Performing Arts Academy include transitioning to an enrollment-driven structure to provide more consistent and structured programming for our students. This shift will allow us to better serve our community by offering ongoing, high-quality performing arts education to children and families.
Additionally, we are actively working toward securing our own dedicated space to operate from. Having a permanent location will enable us to expand our programs, host more workshops, and create a vibrant space for young artists to learn and grow.
Through these efforts, I hope to increase accessibility to the performing arts, nurture young talent, and make a lasting impact on the industry by ensuring that every child—regardless of background—has the opportunity to develop their artistic abilities and thrive in a supportive, creative environment.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
What does being an empowering boss mean to you, and how do you strive to embody that in your everyday life and interactions with others?
Grace Dada: Being an empowering boss means leaning in—owning my talent, standing confidently in my abilities, and being assertive yet kind in my leadership. It’s about more than just personal success; it’s about paving the way for others by sharing knowledge, inspiring growth, and creating opportunities for those around me.
I strive to embody this every day by creating learning spaces where individuals feel supported, encouraged, and free to express their performing arts gifts. My goal is to lead with purpose, uplift others, and create an environment where creativity thrives and talent is developed. Being an empowering boss is about making room for others to shine while continuing to elevate and grow together.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
How do you prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy work-life balance? What tips can you offer other busy women?
Grace Dada: Balancing work and life—especially with a 2-year-old—requires intentionality. I make it a priority to set boundaries by cutting off work at a specific time each day, ensuring that I dedicate quality time to my daughter and family.
Self-care is also a must! I prioritize getting massages, staying hydrated, and finding small moments to recharge. My advice to other busy women is to schedule self-care like any other important task, protect personal time, and remember that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself allows you to show up stronger, more focused, and more present in both your business and personal life.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
How do you stay motivated and inspired, even in the face of adversity?
Grace Dada: My faith is my foundation—God is my strength, and He keeps me grounded through every challenge. When adversity comes, I lean on prayer, scripture and trust in His plan to push forward.
I also stay inspired by listening to podcasts, learning from other women in my field, and surrounding myself with motivating and purpose-driven individuals. Watching other women thrive reminds me that resilience, consistency, and faith can turn any obstacle into an opportunity.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
What new projects or initiatives are you currently working on?
Grace Dada: This year, Serenity Performing Arts Academy is celebrating 20 years of impacting the community through the performing arts! To mark this milestone, we are hosting a Fundraiser Gala in May, bringing together supporters, artists, and community members to celebrate our journey and future growth.
In addition, we are gearing up for our Summer Camp in July, where we will continue providing young artists with opportunities to develop their talents, gain confidence, and express themselves creatively. It’s an exciting year for SPAA, and we’re looking forward to making this anniversary a memorable and meaningful one!
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
What changes or advancements do you hope to see for women in your industry in the next 5-10 years?
Grace Dada: I believe women in the performing arts industry are making great strides, but I would love to see more women owning their own spaces—whether that means leading performing arts organizations, running their studios, or creating platforms that uplift the next generation of artists.
Having more women in leadership roles, making executive decisions, and shaping the future of the arts will ensure that diverse voices and perspectives continue to be heard. The goal is for women to not just participate in the industry but to own and redefine it on their terms.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
What advice would you give to women who are just starting in your industry?
Grace Dada: Stay committed. Keep your blinders on and block out the noise—distractions, doubt, and outside opinions can easily derail your progress. If you have a vision, stay the course, no matter who supports you or who doesn’t.
Stay humble and trust that your gift will make room for you. Success comes from consistency, perseverance, and faith in your purpose. Keep pushing forward, and the right opportunities, connections, and support will follow.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
How have you continued to empower and inspire other women in your industry or community?
Grace Dada: I empower and inspire other women by showing up and being prepared. Consistency, professionalism, and readiness set the tone for leadership and influence. When I lead by example—whether in my industry or community—I demonstrate the importance of discipline, confidence, and perseverance. By being present, engaged, and committed, I hope to inspire other women to step into their greatness, trust their abilities, and create opportunities for themselves and others. Empowerment starts with action, and I make it a priority to show up fully in everything I do.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
How have you continued to empower and inspire other women in your industry or community?
Grace Dada: This journey is not given to the swift or the strong but to the one who endures to the end. Success isn’t just about reaching the destination—it’s about the growth, lessons, and impact made along the way.
Stay committed to your vision. Lean into your purpose. And most importantly, be light and love in everything you do. Your perseverance will pave the way for your success, and your journey will inspire others to do the same.
Website: www.serenityarts.org