by
Chinwe
Makeda Smith may be 56 years old, but her physicality exudes youth. The grandmother and business owner came across pole dancing by sheer coincidence (or fate) and has proven that “age ain’t nothing but a number” when it comes to the art.
After operating my [PR] agency, Jazzmyne Public Relations for almost 30 years I crashed financially in 2008, losing about a dozen real estate properties, my house, my cars, my dog and my man. But I Am still here and the pole has been an instrumental axis sustaining me.
I started poling when I turned 50. I am 56 now and getting younger by the moment. I hope to inspire people, but especially women and particularly older women, because it is true, we can do any thing we put our minds, heart and spirit into!
For Smith, pole dancing revitalizes her entire being. Performing the art is not as much for others — beyond instilling inspiration — as it is for herself. Nonetheless, she has faced some cyber bullying according to an interview she did with xoNecole:
Although pole dancing assisted in anchoring her life and getting back her mojo, in July 2016, Makeda went viral for her skills – but not in a good way. She became a victim of cyberbullying, ageism, and body-shaming by commenters on websites like Worldstar and Baller Alert. Even comedian Earthquake got in on the humor when he asked, “Whose Granny is this???” …
While many might have hung up their heels and headed back to their usually scheduled agenda in light of controversy, Makeda simply shrugged her shoulders and stated, “I wasn’t fazed.”
In spite of internet haters, Smith has many who admire and are inspired by her ability and drive. That includes us here at BGLH!
5 Responses
Good for her for continuing what she loves! Being a 50+ woman, I’m so impressed by her!
There is just something magical about the black female body when its fit and healthy. I am reminded of Merlene Ottey of Jamaica who was still sprinting in her 50’s, or the oldest body building champ, one Miss Enerstine Shepherd at the age of 76 and has the body of a twenty ssomething.
Black women are blessed with gorgeous bodies that are unrivaled when FIT!
She looks strong and young! Iam sure it is a confidenxe booster. It’s NOT for the timid and not for everyone over 40 or 50 but all the best to her.
Heck its not for everyone over 20 or 30! You have to be confident.
Ikr…I was wondering how she can do those moves on the pole….at any age. As a woman ages, she’s told to: cover up, be a granny, sit, down, and don’t have a sex drive. Heck, if I could get just ONE leg on the pole, that’s progress to me!