Imagine swapping the security of a steady paycheck for the thrill of shimmying under the spotlight—something most folks only daydream about. But for one woman, the COVID-19 pandemic wasn't just a global upheaval; it was the unexpected catalyst that turned her long-held fantasy into a vibrant reality. How did a former flight attendant pivot to becoming a full-time belly dancer? Let's dive into this inspiring story, packed with twists, triumphs, and a few surprises that might just challenge what you think about chasing unconventional dreams.
Lizzie Abou Chedid, a 37-year-old from Cheshire, left behind her career as a flight attendant to embrace belly dancing professionally. It all kicked off during the lockdowns when she was residing in Dubai. Stuck at home like so many of us, she turned to daily online belly dance classes for some creative escape and physical activity. Her instructor, seeing her natural talent and enthusiasm, encouraged her to dive deeper—suggesting she pursue formal training to become both a performer and a teacher as a lucrative 'side gig.'
But here's where it gets intriguing: Lizzie discovered a huge gap in the market. Due to the pandemic, many belly dancers had left Dubai, creating a scarcity that opened doors for newcomers. She launched her performing career almost immediately, all while juggling part-time shifts as cabin crew. It was a balancing act that proved incredibly rewarding, blending her love for travel with her newfound passion.
Then came a major life change—she relocated to Cheshire following the arrival of her son. Adjusting to life back in the UK with her husband and little one, Lizzie worried she might not find the same level of opportunities she enjoyed in Dubai's bustling scene. Yet, fate intervened when another dancer in the community put in a good word with a UK agent. Boom—she landed gigs right away, starting with restaurant performances that showcased her skills.
'From that point on, it snowballed,' she shares with a grin. 'I never imagined I'd be this in demand, performing one or two shows every single week throughout the year. It's been an incredible ride!' On top of her stage work, Lizzie now instructs belly dancing classes in Nantwich, Cheshire, and Market Drayton, Shropshire. What began as a casual side project has blossomed into her primary vocation— a dream she never thought she'd achieve fully.
Reflecting on her journey, Lizzie explains that belly dancing had always tugged at her heartstrings, even during her flying days—a role she adored but felt limited her creative side. She describes it as an empowering celebration of the human form, a dance style that liberates rather than confines. For beginners curious about it, think of it as a workout that demands precision: it's not just random hip shakes, but a disciplined art where you train specific muscle groups to move independently, creating fluid, isolated motions that can seem almost magical. 'It's a phenomenal way to stay fit,' she notes, 'and it builds incredible self-assurance by encouraging you to embrace your body fully.'
Her adventure with belly dancing goes back to age 18, when she first experimented with it. Interestingly, her years as a flight attendant honed the poise needed for public performances. Picture this: crammed into a tight airplane cabin for hours on end, with hundreds of eyes on you during long-haul flights up to 16 or 17 hours. Lizzie admits to tripping, spilling items, and making all sorts of blunders in front of passengers. But those mishaps taught her something invaluable—to chuckle at her own slip-ups and not sweat the small stuff. 'It stripped away any fear of judgment,' she says. Plus, her self-confidence has grown naturally over time; she jokes that attempting this career 15 years earlier would've been way too daunting.
And this is the part most people miss: living in a quaint rural village with such a distinctive profession has made her a local celebrity of sorts. Neighbors often recognize her as 'that belly dancer lady,' treating it like an amusing quirk. It's a novelty that adds charm to her everyday life, but it also sparks conversations about how society views non-traditional paths.
But let's get a bit controversial here. Belly dancing often carries stereotypes—some see it as exotic or provocative, while others dismiss it as frivolous. Lizzie pushes back, emphasizing its roots in empowerment and culture. Yet, could pursuing a 'far-off dream' like this be seen as irresponsible in a post-pandemic world, where job security feels more crucial than ever? Or is it a bold reminder that life is too short not to follow your passions, even if they defy norms? What do you think—does swapping a 'safe' job for something unconventional require bravery, naivety, or both? Share your take in the comments; I'd love to hear if you've ever ditched the ordinary for something extraordinary, or if you disagree with chasing such dreams amid life's uncertainties. Tell us which inspiring stories from Staffordshire you'd like us to explore next!
