Meet the Founder

Emily Hulstein’s journey as a dancer is a powerful story of growth, passion, and transformation. She began her dance training at the age of two, and her mom’s dance studio quickly became her second home. Emily began competing at the age of nine and went on to hold 15 titles, including the prestigious Dupree All Star National Dancer of the Year title. Throughout her competitive career, she received numerous scholarships and first-overall awards. Emily has been featured in several music videos. Emily also attended the Joffrey Ballet School’s summer intensive for four years and was offered a scholarship to train with the Joffrey Ballet School’s pre-professional trainee program, where she trained for two years as pre-professional. Emily currently holds 16 choreography awards and thousands of dollars worth of college scholarships.

Despite her many achievements in the dance world, Emily’s life took a profound turn when she encountered God. Although she was offered the opportunity to move to New York to pursue a Broadway career, her encounter with God led her to a whole new perspective on success. In 2020, she was introduced to Zion Dance Project, where she attended their winter intensive. During this time, the Lord met her in powerful ways, revealing the truth of eternal success and deepening her faith. 

Emily now believes that dancing at the altar for Jesus is far more fulfilling than any worldly recognition or success. Her desire is for dancers to encounter Jesus and dance in freedom with Him. She hopes to see a generation of dancers rise up and declare truth through their art, dancing before God in His throne room. Emily is passionate about releasing a dance that ushers in God’s presence, allowing others to experience Him in powerful ways. She envisions a community of dancers using their art to prepare the way for Jesus’ return.

Driven by this vision, Emily founded The Sword Dance Convention, where she hopes dancers will unlock a new power to navigate life through the art of dance. Emily continues to mentor, teach, choreograph, and guide the next generation of dancers into truth. Her heart is to equip young artists to use their dance to glorify God, make a difference in the world, and boldly declare the truth of His love.