Wanderlust Chronicles: Finding Synergy Across Passions - 5 Insights as a Professional Figure Skater and Lifestyle Journalist

What happens when we choose to follow not just one passion, but many? Can the intersection of diverse pursuits create something greater than the sum of its parts? History suggests it can, blending different paths often sparks creativity, innovation, and fulfillment. The idea that passions must exist in isolation feels outdated; instead, they can complement and enrich one another, creating a synergy that elevates both. Whether it’s an artist drawing inspiration from travel or a scientist finding creativity in music, embracing multiple dreams often leads to unexpected discovery and growth. Take the example of Leonardo da Vinci, an iconic figure who was not only a painter but also an inventor, engineer, and scientist. His ability to merge the fields of art and science resulted in some of the most innovative and timeless creations. This wasn’t a contradiction; it was the intersection of his diverse passions that made his contributions groundbreaking. Similarly, look at Charles Dickens, whose writing went far beyond the limits of the novel. Known for masterpieces like A Tale of Two Cities and Great Expectations, Dickens was also a social critic, journalist, and philanthropist. His experiences in the courtroom and his involvement with the impoverished deeply informed his writing. By blending his diverse experiences, Dickens created some of the most powerful, socially conscious narratives in literary history, proving that literature can be both art and a catalyst for societal change. Take also Marie Curie, who merged scientific achievement with groundbreaking social impact, or Frida Kahlo, whose personal pain transformed into iconic art that reshaped the cultural narrative. Misty Copeland redefined classical ballet, blending tradition with diversity, while Maya Angelou used her varied talents to champion empowerment. From explorers like Isabella Bird to writers like Elizabeth Gilbert, these examples show how different passions can converge to create something greater than the sum of their parts.


Connections and Intersections: Exploring Multiple Passions

What if pursuing multiple passions wasn’t about splitting focus but about managing time to bring different interests together in meaningful ways? Exploring diverse paths can lead to connections and opportunities we might not have anticipated. When I first stepped onto the ice as a child, skating felt natural. It didn’t need explanations, it was simply where I felt at ease. Later, writing became another outlet, offering a way to reflect and share experiences. Being both a journalist and a professional figure skater might seem like an unusual mix to some, fitting into categories like creative or athlete, performer or storyteller. Balancing both hasn’t been easy. It’s taken planning, prioritization, and flexibility to make it all work. At its core, this journey represents a balance between external support and internal drive. While the support of loved ones or access to resources plays a vital role, it’s ultimately up to the individual to transform those opportunities into something meaningful. Indeed, passion alone isn’t enough, it takes intelligent hard work, focus, and persistence to recognize and act on potential. But I’ve learned that all paths aren’t separate, they complement each other. Performing for example sparks ideas for writing, and writing gives me new perspectives on skating. One sharpens the other, and managing time effectively has been key. Both demand discipline, creativity, and consistency, like any project. It comes with its challenges, but the rewards make it all worthwhile. Though skating, writing and travel might seem unrelated, they share a lot in common as inextricably and undeniably connected. Traveling to over 29 countries, performing in live shows, and working as a journalist have shaped how I see the world and approach my work. Along the way, I’ve met people with remarkable stories and ambitions. These encounters and experiences have left a lasting impact. Performing live gives me the energy to deliver my best every time, while writing allows me to step back, reflect, and turn those moments into narratives that stay with me. During these years, I’ve seen how many people carry far greater responsibilities, juggling work and family or building lives in places with fewer opportunities. Traveling has been a constant reminder of the privilege I carry, and the resilience others show in circumstances far more challenging than mine. My challenges are simply part of the life I’ve chosen, and I’m grateful for the lessons and opportunities along the way.

In this article, I explore the unique connection between live performance and storytelling, travel and creativity, through defining moments that have shaped my journey. These reflections reveal how seemingly unrelated paths can intertwine to create something unexpected, and how trusting your instincts and putting in the work can lead to an unexpected harmony where opposing worlds coexist. Through five key reflections, I’ll share what I’ve learned about turning a childhood passion for skating into a career, navigating challenges like becoming an aerialist on ice, and discovering how storytelling through journalism has become another way to express myself. It also reflects on how travel has expanded my perspective, adding depth to both my skating and writing. Being surrounded by supportive people and experiencing different cultures has shown me how much we can learn from one another. Whether you’re curious about the backstage life of a performer, the creative process of a writer, or seeking inspiration to juggle multiple interests, this piece offers insights into finding harmony in a multifaceted life.






 

I started skating at four years old because I was really sick with asthma, and the fresh, cool environment of the rink was recommended to help me breathe better. What began as a practical decision quickly became something I loved. Growing up in Saint-Nazaire, a city known for its shipbuilding, I didn’t think about where skating could take me, it just became part of my life. By six, I was competing, and skating became my main focus. Coming from a modest background, I’ve always understood that hard work and focus are essential, as nothing in life is guaranteed or to be taken for granted. This mindset has shaped the way I approach every opportunity. I've grown through being driven by hard work, determination, humility, and love. Training as a young skater in France’s sports-study program till my Bachelor University degree, I had to balance school and intensive training that required discipline and commitment. Mornings started at 5 or 6 a.m. with practice, followed by a full day of school, and then more skating in the evening. Homework and studying stretched late into the night. Some days felt overwhelming, and there were moments when exhaustion blurred my focus. But I never doubted my love for skating or my desire to make it a career. Academics served as a backup plan, a safety net in case things didn’t work out, but of course, my heart was always on the ice. Knowing that every early morning and long day brought me closer to my dream kept me motivated. It taught me that doing your passion as a living doesn’t happen by accident. It’s about showing up every day, staying focused, and putting in the work.

Pair Skating Dreams and Global Stages

As I grew, my path took a new direction when I decided to specialize in pair skating. As a child, I admired the beauty of pair skating during summer camps. The intricate lifts and seamless coordination fascinated me, and it felt natural to pursue this discipline. I was always drawn to acrobatics, the thrill of jumping, spinning, and flying, the trust, the synchronization, and the strong connection with a partner. What made pair skating truly special for me was the feeling it gave: like riding a roller coaster, a mix of adrenaline and freedom that added a new dimension to skating. I learned new techniques, and trust and mutual understanding developed naturally through shared practice, often without words. It taught me that a true connection with someone on the ice transcends language; simply sharing the same love for the same passion creates a bond. In 2014, my path shifted again when I transitioned from competition to show skating. Leaving the structured world of scoring systems behind, I embraced the artistry and storytelling of performance. Show skating allowed me to connect with audiences in a new way, transforming routines into creative expressions. Performing in ice shows came with its own demands: skating multiple shows a week required physical endurance, and performing live meant constant focus. But it also brought joy, the applause of the audience, the thrill of performing in incredible venues, and the camaraderie of working with a cast of talented skaters and performers from around the world. Over the years, I’ve performed in arenas and theaters across 29 countries. Touring with skating companies felt surreal at times, especially when performing in venues that once hosted NBA or NHL games. This year, I achieved another milestone by performing on a cruise ship. Working alongside artists, musicians, and crew members from all over the world has been a reminder of how collaboration brings diverse talents together to create something meaningful. Along the way, I met my fiancé, who shares the same profession as me. Traveling and living all these skating experiences together has made the journey even more rewarding. Sharing the challenges, triumphs, and joy of performing with someone who understands it so deeply has brought an added layer of meaning to this life on the ice.

Skating has shaped more than my career, it’s shaped my character. It’s taught me persistence, adaptability, and how to rise stronger after every fall. It started as a childhood passion, but it’s become a journey of growth, expression, and resilience. Every stumble, every happy moment on and off the ice, every person I’ve met, and every challenge has played a role in shaping who I am today, both as a performer and as a person.

The COVID-19 pandemic turned the world upside down, and the performing arts industry was no exception. With ice rinks, theaters, and training facilities closed indefinitely, performers like me had to find creative ways to keep our passions alive. For me, this period became an unexpected turning point, introducing me to the world of aerial skating, a blend of movement on the ice and the ethereal grace of aerial performance. Aerial hoop on ice is exactly what it sounds like: a combination of figure skating and aerial acrobatics performed using a suspended hoop, or lyra. Imagine the elegance and precision of skating, but with the added dimension of flight. Performers use the hoop to execute spins, poses, and transitions while seamlessly moving between the ice and the air. It’s a visually striking discipline that requires both the technical skill of a skater and the strength and artistry of an aerialist.

Faced with the challenge of having nowhere to train, my fiancé surprised me with an incredible gift: a custom-built aerial apparatus in the garden of his house. This setup became my sanctuary during the quarantine, allowing me to continue my training under the guidance of two exceptional circus coaches. Using video conferences, I began learning both silk and lyra, training at least twice a week with them and practicing every day on my own. Despite the world feeling like it had come to a standstill, those training sessions became a way to stay connected to my craft and to continue exploring new dimensions of performance. When quarantine was over, I was able to move my training to the ice rink where I currently practice. I felt incredibly grateful for the opportunity to bring this project to life, building and refining multiple aerial hoop acts on the ice. This was a pivotal step in merging the fluidity of skating with the feeling of aerial performance, creating routines that felt both unique and transformative. This dedication led the following years to two breakthrough contracts in Germany, officially launching me as an aerialist on ice. Performing internationally as part of professional casts was the realization of a dream a milestones that marked the beginning of a new chapter in my career, where two art forms blended seamlessly to push the boundaries of what’s possible in performance. I’ve been fortunate to always have my loved ones by my side every step of the way. Then and now, whether it’s helping me film, record, photograph, or brainstorm ideas for my acts, or simply ensuring I have ice time at the rink to rehearse, their support has been invaluable. Having people who believe in my vision and actively contribute to its realization makes every day of this journey even more meaningful. I know for certain that I couldn’t have achieved this alone. And, looking back, what began as a necessity during a global crisis became a defining moment in my career evolution. Aerial skating has allowed me to express myself in ways that feel fresh and transformative, renewing my artistic perspective and deepening my sensibility.

Through this journey, I recognize that having supportive loved ones, resources, and opportunities is a privilege, and I’m deeply grateful for them. I've also learned the importance of humility. Even though the audience may not see it immediately, this is a dangerous discipline that requires constant preparation and attention. I recognize that having supportive loved ones, resources, and opportunities is a privilege, and I’m deeply grateful for them. I fully acknowledge the importance of the resources and people who believed in me, but it was as well my determination, creativity, and tireless commitment to growth that turned those opportunities into lasting achievements. True progress is the result of a harmonious combination of support, preparation, and the drive to succeed.

People often admire the final results, the achievements, the recognition, or the polished outcomes, but rarely do they see the effort behind the scenes: the early mornings, the late nights, and the relentless dedication required to excel in any pursuit, whether it’s in sports, the arts, business, or everyday life. It’s easy to admire the elegance of a routine, the sparkling costumes, the applause, the spotlight, and the glamour of live performances. But few realize the years of work and dedication that lead to those fleeting moments on stage. As performers, part of the magic lies in making it all look effortless, and we take great pride and joy in doing so because those moments are our happiness too. Behind every graceful routine lies countless hours of falling, learning, and refining skills.

Those early years taught me resilience and determination, but they were undeniably exhausting. It requires constant repetition, not just until you get it right, but until you can’t get it wrong. There were countless days when I fell more times than I succeeded, but every fall was a lesson, every stumble an opportunity to grow. This principle isn’t unique to skating. Take Michael Jordan, one of the greatest basketball players of all time. He famously said, "I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times I’ve been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed." His success wasn’t built on talent alone but on the relentless effort to refine his craft and the courage to keep trying despite failure. People also tend to attribute success to "luck," as though it’s something handed to you effortlessly. But the reality is that success is rarely about luck; it’s about intelligent hard work. It’s not just about putting in effort—it’s about the right kind of effort, focusing on the areas that truly matter. As a child, though, you don’t immediately understand this principle. Back then, it was all about sheer hours on the ice, pushing through exhaustion, and following instructions. The concept of working smarter, not just harder, comes later—through experience, guidance, and reflection. The painter Pablo Picasso captured this perfectly when he said, "Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working." Whether you’re an artist, athlete, or entrepreneur, true progress comes from consistent effort combined with purposeful action. Over time, I learned that success isn’t simply about grinding endlessly; it’s about working with intention, knowing what to prioritize, and finding balance.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that the process matters as much as the outcome. For example, writers like Ernest Hemingway rewrote their work countless times before creating the masterpieces we admire today. Skating, like writing or any other creative pursuit, is about refining over and over until every element feels authentic, seamless, and impactful. Performing live also taught me to embrace imperfection. No matter how much preparation goes into a performance, the unexpected can happen,a stumble, a missed step, or a technical issue. What defines us isn’t whether everything goes perfectly, but how we adapt and keep going. As Leonard Cohen so beautifully wrote, "There is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in." These lessons extend far beyond skating. Any career, any dream, requires a foundation of hard work, resilience, and a willingness to learn from failure. Whether you’re starting a business, pursuing a creative passion, or simply trying to improve in your chosen field, the principles remain the same. Success is built step by step, through small wins, setbacks, and the quiet, consistent effort that nobody sees.

In 2018, I started a new chapter that brought something different to my life as a performer: journalism. Writing had always been something I enjoyed, a way to take a step back, think things through, and tell stories. Going into journalism felt like the right choice after finishing my double bachelor’s degree in Sport Management and Law and Economy. I wanted to do something I was passionate about, so I joined the Master’s program at the Superior Journalism School of Paris. That’s when I started working with the International Podcast Journal, writing about topics that mattered to me and finding my voice as a journalist. With the help of my editor-in-chief, I was able to continue writing for this journal while enjoying the freedom to create what I wanted, including developing my own chronicle.

Through the Podcast Journal, I wrote about a range of subjects, from art and travel to fashion and lifestyle. I came to see fashion not just as clothes but as a way people express who they are and respond to the world around them. Lifestyle journalism wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about finding the stories behind what we see and exploring how people create and live. During Fashion Week events, I had the privilege of meeting incredible designers and PR houses, many of whom I remain in contact with today. Their guidance and collaboration have been instrumental in helping me flourish as a fashion journalist. Balancing writing and performing hasn’t always been simple, but it’s been rewarding. Performing is all about energy and being in the moment, while writing gives me the time to step back and process everything. One feeds the other. Skating and writing may seem different, but they both come down to telling a story, whether it’s through movement or words.

Since I started, journalism has taken me to places I never expected. I’ve been to fashion events, met talented people, and written about things that genuinely inspire me. These experiences have changed how I see the world and helped me think about storytelling in a broader way. That, in turn, has given me fresh ideas to bring back to the ice. Writing is another way of doing what I love: connecting with people and exploring ideas. It works alongside skating, not against it. Both are about figuring out how to say something meaningful, just in different ways.
 

Over the past decade, skating has taken me to 29 countries across five continents. It’s hard to describe what it means to perform in so many different places. Each country has its own energy, its own way of seeing and responding to art, and that changes how you approach what you do. From arenas in Asia to theaters in Europe, and now cruise ships at sea, every setting has taught me something about connecting with people and adapting to different cultures.

Traveling so much has opened my eyes to perspectives I wouldn’t have encountered otherwise. It’s not just about the places—it’s the people I’ve met, the conversations I’ve had, and the way those experiences have shaped how I see the world. Performing in different parts of the world has shown me how art crosses language barriers and cultural differences, and how skating, like writing, is another way to connect with others. When you’re constantly moving, you also learn how to be flexible. No two gigs are the same—new casts, new environments, new challenges. But that’s part of the appeal. Every new place pushes you to adjust, grow, and bring something different to the table. Those lessons have carried over into my writing, too. Travel has given me stories to tell and a way to bring more depth and detail to what I write.

Skating, writing, and aerial work may seem like separate parts of my life, but for me, they’re deeply connected. Each informs the other. Skating teaches how to perform, adapt, and tell a story without words. Writing allows for reflection, turning those stories into something tangible. Aerial work challenges boundaries, pushing both creativity and movement into new spaces.

Over time, I’ve realized these passions don’t stand alone, they intertwine, shaping how I create, approach challenges, and interact with the world. Traveling, performing, and writing have shown me that there’s no one way to move forward. It’s about finding where different paths meet and letting those intersections guide you to new opportunities and perspectives.
Life isn’t meant to follow a single track. Our passions, skills, and experiences often overlap in ways that aren’t obvious at first but create something stronger when combined. It’s not about compartmentalizing or narrowing focus; it’s about letting these layers enrich one another and seeing what emerges.

Through my Wanderlust Chronicle, I continue exploring these intersections, sharing stories that reflect the richness of blending different passions and perspectives. Whether it’s through art, movement, or storytelling, there’s always more to uncover and ways to bring seemingly separate worlds together. Whether on the ice or with pen in hand, I’ve found meaning in the process, in adapting to change, and in looking forward to what comes next.