Victoria G Interviews Travis Lim

Victoria G: What inspired you to become a dancer?

Travis Lim: I always had more energy than I could handle from a young age. My mom enrolled me in seven different sports and modeling and acting, but when I started dancing, it was clear I'd found my passion. My journey began almost 17 years ago in a small Hip Hop studio in Richmond, BC. From then on, I found myself enthralled with the thrill of competition and the energy and rawness of Hip Hop culture. Competing on global stages, collaborating with incredible artists, and teaching this craft have driven me. The culture's depth and the inspiring people I've met continue to push me forward.

VG: Who are some dancers that inspire you?

TL: Dancers like Alex Wong, who also comes from an Asian-Canadian background, inspired me greatly in my early career. Seeing his success was particularly motivating at a time when Asian representation in dance was limited. I also love watching B-boy Phil Wizard, a fellow Vancouverite and Olympic Breaking Champion, for his dedication to pushing the boundaries of dance and elevating Hip Hop culture.

VG: What is your favorite thing about dancing?

TL: I love how dance connects people. Whether teaching students, performing on stage, or engaging with other dancers in the cypher, there's an instant bond through movement that happens each time. I've been fortunate to travel the world through dance, and each time, I am reminded how dance is truly a universal language, allowing us to connect with others no matter our background, ethnicity, language barrier, or cultural difference.

VG: What is your favorite dance routine you have ever done?

TL: Canada's Got Talent Golden Buzzer performance with my team GRVMNT is a standout moment. That performance represented years of dedication, training, and teamwork, but it wasn't just the routine that made it special. Leading up to the show, we faced the challenge of preparing during the pandemic. I also lived in Los Angeles then, which meant hours of rehearsing through Zoom and video-something none of us had experienced before. We had to adapt to teaching and learning choreography virtually and bring it together in person a few days before flying to Niagara Falls. The energy in the room that night was electric, and when we got that Golden Buzzer, it felt like all the obstacles we'd faced had been worth it. That moment solidified everything we had worked for, and it was a dream come true to share it with my team.

VG: What can you share about your time on NBC's World of Dance?

TL: World of Dance was a huge learning experience. Competing on such a large stage, surrounded by some of the best dancers in the world, pushed me to improve and adapt. It also helped me better understand how to balance my mental acuity with my performance under pressure. Our journey to the stage had many unforeseen challenges, but how we responded to each challenge shaped our resilience and strengthened our bond as teammates. That is something that has resonated with me more than the accolade itself.

VG: How would you describe yourself in three words?

TL: Dancing with purpose

VG: What are your social media handles?

TL: Instagram: @travis_lim_ent. TikTok: @travy_lim

VG: Where do you see yourself in ten years?

TL: Much of my journey has been constantly reevaluating my goals and adapting to new opportunities. While I'm driven and set specific goals, I'm also open to the unexpected opportunities that may come my way. I'm only 23 right now, so I must remain flexible as I learn more about myself. Ultimately, I hope that whatever I do uplifts my community and grows the next generation of dancers. I want to ensure that Hip Hop culture is respected globally while achieving the personal goals I've set for myself. It's about balancing vision with flexibility, which hopefully leads to a positive impact overall.

VG: What are three qualities every dancer should have?

TL: Consistent, Open, and Curious.

VG: Do you have any advice for an aspiring dancer?

TL: The most important lesson I've learned along my journey is the role of passion and purpose. When transitioning from being a competitive dancer to pursuing a professional career at UCLA, I faced redefining my motivation. Without the awards and accolades that once drove me, I had to fall in love with the craft rather than the external recognition. This shift pushed me to discover a deeper sense of purpose and to lead with that vision. Embracing my purpose in dance-whether it's to inspire others, tell a story, or push the boundaries of my artistry-has been the guiding force behind my achievements and has helped me navigate both the highs and lows of my career.

VG: What's next for you?

TL: On the performance side, I'm constantly working to push myself creatively, whether working on personal video projects, choreographing for artists, or performing on the big stage. One such performance is the 136th Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena for New Year's. I'm also a resident performing artist with UniverSOUL, where we're using our platform to bring our H.O.P.E. Show across Los Angeles. The show promotes Peace, Love, Unity, and Hope through Hip Hop and aims to inspire young dancers by showcasing how the culture can uplift communities and lead to personal discovery and growth. On the teaching side, I'm continuing to tour with iDance, teaching at conventions, and adjudicating with 5-6-7-8 Showtime and Dance World Cup. Through my teaching company, UniverSOUL, I'm developing new programs to expand Hip Hop education to more students. My mission is to empower students to find their unique voices through Hip Hop dance, helping them connect with others and become positive influences in their communities. Last year, I reached over 1,500 students across more than 25 schools, and this year, I'm hoping to continue pushing positivity through Hip Hop Culture.

VG: RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS Who is a choreographer you would love to work with?

TL: I'd love to work with Luthor Brown one day. I've been watching his work since I was a kid.

VG: What is something you can't live without?

TL: Music-it's the heartbeat of everything I do.

VG: What is your biggest pet peeve?

TL: Realizing I'm out of milk after pouring myself a bowl of cereal.

VG: Do you have any hidden talents?

TL: Speed solving a Rubik's cube - Record: 29 seconds.

VG: Do you play any instruments?

TL: I played some piano and violin growing up, but as a dancer, I believe my body is my instrument.

VG: What is your favorite pastime?

TL: I enjoy hiking. It's a great way to clear my mind and be present.

VG: Do you have any pets?

TL: I want a dog soon, but I would never subject those beautiful creatures to the confines of LA's concrete jungle.

VG: What is your biggest fear?

TL: Not reaching my full potential and leaving goals unfulfilled... or heights.

VG: What is your favorite film genre?

TL: I really enjoy watching action movies, specifically action in anime. Something about the boundless storytelling techniques and unique aesthetic of anime draws me in.