Meet Safiyyah Joseph-Francois

We had the good fortune of connecting with Safiyyah Joseph-Francois and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Safiyyah, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I see risk differently when my faith is firmly rooted in Christ. On the surface, a risk might look like a gamble—but through the lens of faith, it becomes a step of obedience. Hebrews 11:6 says, “Without faith it is impossible to please God,” and that truth shapes the way I move. I don’t take risks recklessly; I move when I sense God leading, even if the path is unclear. When my faith is established in Him, I can step forward with confidence, knowing I’m not walking alone or relying on my own understanding.

In both my life and career, the most defining moments have come from trusting God enough to take bold steps. Whether it was launching a new program, leaving comfort zones, or stepping into unfamiliar territory, each risk has stretched me—but it’s also grown me. My greatest breakthroughs have come from moments where I chose to trust God fully. Faith turns risk into purpose—and when He’s leading, no step is ever wasted.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’m not your typical dance educator, owner and neither is ECMoves, LLC.—and for a very long time, I struggled with that.

While many of my peers were establishing traditional dance studios and focusing on the technical side of dance, I found myself walking a different path. I used to question it. I wondered if I was behind, if I was missing something, or if I had somehow veered off course. But over time, I realized I wasn’t behind—I was just being built for something different.

I am a dance builder. I don’t just teach dance—I build spaces, systems, environments, and platforms. While others are constructing within the four walls of a studio, I’m often the one building the studio itself—or venting out the vision that helps others shine in theirs. I’m the creative mind behind the curtain, the strategist helping someone else’s spotlight glow brighter, the one who dares to dream of what doesn’t yet exist and then creates it.

My calling goes beyond choreography and clean lines. I think about the environment—not just the steps being taken, but where they’re being taken and why that space matters. I care about atmosphere, influence, impact, and transformation. Dance, for me, is a tool for purpose—a gateway to healing, confidence, expression, and calling.

But let me be honest—it hasn’t been easy.

There were many seasons where I felt unseen and overlooked, building platforms that others stood on while I remained in the background. I questioned my value. I dealt with discouragement, comparison, and self-doubt. There were moments I wanted to quit—when I couldn’t understand why my journey looked so different. I had to wrestle with identity, with purpose, and with trusting God even when I didn’t have all the answers. I had to fight through the emotional weight of creating in silence and the frustration of being the “visionary” when all I really wanted was visible results.

But those challenges taught me something precious: that purpose doesn’t always look like popularity, and impact doesn’t always come with applause. I learned that I’m not called to do what’s typical—I’m called to do what’s intentional. I learned that there’s power in being the builder, even if others don’t always see the blueprint.

What I want the world to know is this:
My brand isn’t just about dance—it’s about divine design, creative leadership, and building legacy through movement. It’s about creating space for people to discover who they truly are, not just in their technique, but in their identity and calling. ECMoves is about elevation, transformation, and birthing purpose in unlikely places. It’s bigger than choreography—it’s about shaping cultures, raising leaders, and shifting environments.

This is my story. It’s untraditional, it’s raw, it’s real—but it’s mine. And I thank God for it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Of course, the one and only place “The 305”! If I had to pick my absolute favorite spots, I’d say Aventura Mall—no one can go wrong there. It’s the perfect mix of shopping, dining, and good vibes all in one place. Then there’s Bayside Marketplace and Bayfront Park—great for soaking in that waterfront energy, live music, and people-watching.

Miami’s brunch scene is next level, and I love that it’s so diverse. From incredible Haitian brunch gems like Kreyol Kitchen and Leela’s Haitian Kitchen, to spots like L’Auberge Restaurant that bring a unique and elegant touch to the brunch experience.

And of course, who visits Miami and doesn’t go to the beach? The sun, the sand, the ocean—that’s the heartbeat of The 305. So whether we’re soaking up rays by the waves, exploring Aventura Mall, enjoying brunch with a Haitian flair, or vibing at Bayside, that’s the real Miami experience.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Before I recognize anyone else, I must first give all glory, honor, and praise to my LORD and Savior, Jesus Christ—the true author and finisher of my faith. He is not only the foundation of who I am, but the One who has held me together in the moments when everything around me was falling apart. Through the highs and lows, the wins and losses, and especially through the nights of silence, confusion, hurt, and postpartum depression—He stayed with me. He was the quiet strength when I had none left. He spoke to me in the dark when I didn’t even have the words to pray. When I didn’t feel seen or understood, He reminded me that I am chosen, called, and loved. Every platform I’ve built, every room I’ve walked into, every creative idea that has come to life—it has only been by His grace, His vision, and His divine timing.

I also want to give deep honor and recognition to my father, Farid Joseph—the man who has never stopped believing in me, even when I struggled to believe in myself. From my earliest memories until this very moment, he has spoken life into the little girl within me—the dreamer, the dancer, the fighter. In moments when I felt small, he reminded me that I carry greatness. In seasons when I felt broken, he reminded me of my worth and purpose. He’s been a steady voice, a safe place, and a source of unwavering encouragement. There’s something powerful about a father’s affirmation, and his words have often been the bridge between my pain and my healing.

To both my Heavenly Father and my earthly one—thank you for seeing me, loving me, and helping me rise. You are both foundational in the story of who I am becoming, and I dedicate this journey to you.

Instagram: @ecmovesllc