Meet Valeria Facio Sierra

We had the good fortune of connecting with Valeria Facio Sierra and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Valeria, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I’m originally from Venezuela, with a Brazilian father and Venezuelan mother. Growing up in Venezuela, I experienced a country that was getting destroyed every day, especially as we entered a dictatorship. I lived through protests, felt the burning sting of tear gas, and witnessed the heartbreaking sight of police and military forces turning against their people.

I grew up watching my mom, a lawyer, not only practicing law but also selling Brazilian beauty products to stylists in the area. My aunt, a dentist with her own practice, would take me to work with her and taught me how to count money and charge cards as a child. I grew up surrounded by strong women entrepreneurs, and they became my role models. From a young age, I knew that I wanted to follow in their footsteps and create my own path as an entrepreneur. In 2018, at 15 years old, I moved to the US with my mom, but I never forgot where I came from.

These experiences shaped who I am today: resilient, passionate, and driven by a desire to build something meaningful. They taught me the importance of hard work and never giving up on your dreams. My love for dance has always been at the core of who I am, and with Goddess Productions, I’ve been able to combine my passion for dance with my entrepreneurial spirit to share the beauty of Middle Eastern dance and create unforgettable experiences for my clients.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is my passion, and bellydance is at the center of it all. Dance has been a part of my life since I was three years old, and it has always been a way for me to connect with my emotions and share my soul. While bellydance is my true passion, at Goddess Productions, we also offer a variety of other dance shows and styles, each performed with the same level of dedication and authenticity. What sets us apart is our commitment to quality; only dancers professionally trained in that specific dance style are selected for each performance. We also have strict guidelines for costuming, with each costume custom-made by independent designers to ensure every show is unique and aligned with the highest standards.

Getting to where I am today hasn’t been easy. Growing up in Venezuela, during a time of political unrest, I learned resilience at a young age. Moving to the United States as a teenager, starting fresh, and building my business, Goddess Productions, were all challenges that required perseverance. The hardships I faced taught me the power of never giving up.

As a perfectionist, my business has taught me that it’s okay to take a step back sometimes. It’s important to take time off, even when your heart tells you to keep going. Giving your brain and body the rest they need is essential; learn to delegate. It’s okay to let opportunities go; not every client or venue is the right fit. Staying in the wrong place instead of saying no will only cost you in the long run. The arts and entertainment space is very competitive, but I believe it’s important to never let negative energy change who you are. Be kind, respectful, and stay consistent; no one else is you, and that is your superpower. And most importantly, never, ever, sign away your freedom to dance and work as your true self.

I want every reader to know that Goddess Productions is more than just a business; it’s a manifestation of my passion for dance, culture, and creating unforgettable experiences. My story is about following my dreams, no matter the obstacles, and using my art as a way to spread happiness to others.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting for a week, we’d start by indulging in some delicious meals, like Italian at Divieto, a beautiful dinner with Miami views at La Mar, and the best Brazilian food at Sagrado Café. For a unique experience, I’d take them to Zuri in Wynwood for a Moroccan dinner and a show by Goddess Productions. If they’re craving something sweet, we’d stop by +58 in Doral for Venezuelan baked goods and head to Knaus Berry Farms during their open season for fresh cinnamon rolls.

We’d spend some relaxing days at Key Biscayne beach, then head to my mom’s house to enjoy food fresh off my stepdad’s grill, pick fruit, and play with the dogs! For nightlife, we would go to Perro Negro, MAD, El Patio, Tu Candela, and Dirty Rabbit. Depending on the timing, we would also enjoy some art exhibits in the area.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I dedicate my shoutout to the two pillars that have supported me and brought me to where I am today: family and education. First, to my mom, Beatriz, thank you for always ensuring I have the tools to succeed in life. Without your love and guidance, I wouldn’t be here. To Gary, my stepdad and mentor, thank you for showing me what entrepreneurship in the United States truly looks like. I’ve watched you turn every idea into a successful business, and I am forever grateful for your unwavering support, business advice, and presence in every important moment.

To my fluffy baby Carly, thank you for always making sure I never feel alone. You’ve been by my side since elementary school, through every step of my journey. I’m so grateful to have you healthy and happy. You’ve stayed up with me through countless nights of studying and now wait for me to come home after every show.

I also want to thank the institutions and teachers who have helped shape me into who I am today. To Colegio Las Colinas, thank you for teaching me English and giving me the foundation to succeed as an American. To Ronald Reagan High School, especially Ms. Mazeppa, for always providing a space to dance and create freely. A special thanks to my first bellydance teacher, Maria Gassan, for showing me the magic of bellydance and sparking my passion for the art form. Last but not least, a heartfelt thanks to the faculty at the FIU Honors College and Business School, each professor imparted wisdom that not only deepened my understanding of business but also helped me grow as a person.

Website: https://www.goddessproductionsent.com

Instagram: @goddessproductions_ and @valbellydance

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriasfacios/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/goddesproductions/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@valbellydancemiami

Other: TikTok @miamibellydancer
Email & Phone number for bookings: goddessproductionsent@gmail.com and 3057949248
For classes dm @valbellydance, text or call 3057949248

Image Credits
White studio backdrop image by @acabonito
Three dancers with love sign in the back by @juanito_visual_
Pink and black costume dancing with person sitting down by @defiestanight