Brighton Girl Award Win - A Moment I’ll Never Forget!

Photography by Sophie Sheinwald

I’m still not quite sure how to put this into words, but here goes!

Recently, I was honoured to receive a Brighton Girl Award, and honestly, I’m still processing it.

Attending the Brighton Girl Awards ceremony was an amazing experience in itself. It was incredible to meet so many strong, vibrant women doing such brilliant work for our communities across the city. So as I sat in my seat, preparing for the winner's name to be announced from the stage, absolutely the last thing I expected was for that name to be mine!

If you know me, you’ll know I don’t do what I do for recognition. I do it because I genuinely love bringing people together, creating spaces where people feel good, and helping others connect with their confidence and joy through movement.

So when my name was called, my immediate reaction was a mix of surprise, gratitude, excitement, and a little bit of “wait… really?!” 😅

Honestly, to have this result...it means a lot.

What this Brighton Girl Award represents

For me, this isn’t just about one moment or one event.

It represents every class where someone walked in feeling nervous and left smiling.

Every "I nearly didn’t come today, but I’m so glad I did.”

Every mum who rediscovered a piece of herself through Mummas Got Moves.

Every single person who has shown up, danced, supported, raised funds for great causes, and been part of this community.

Because that’s what Zumba with Mon has always been about.

It’s never just been about the dancing.

It’s about connection, confidence, and creating a space where everyone feels welcome.

The Power of Community

If there’s one thing this award has really highlighted for me, it’s just how incredible this community is.

Zumba with Mon isn’t just me - it’s all of you!

The energy you bring to every class, the support you show each other, the laughter, the encouragement - that’s what makes it special.

I might be the one at the front of the room, but the magic comes from everyone in it.

A Moment to Reflect

Winning this award has definitely made me pause (which I don’t do very often ) and reflect on the journey so far.

From starting out with a passion for dance and people, to building something for the last 10 years that now reaches so many amazing individuals...it’s all been a bit of a whirlwind.

Moments like this remind me how important it is to keep showing up, keep creating, and keep doing things that genuinely make a difference - however big or small they might seem.

Thank you

To everyone who has ever:

• Attended a class

• Moved with me

• Supported, shared, recommended or cheered from the sidelines

  
  

This award might have my name on it, but it really belongs to this whole community.

I’m so grateful to be on this journey with you all - and I can’t wait to see what we keep building together.

Let’s keep moving! 

Mon

x