We had the good fortune of connecting with Ikuko Milton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ikuko, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I”m from Japan, which has a different business culture. I feel that in Japan people work very hard, but are afraid to fail and do not have the vision to innovate, to build something unique, that I see in the US business world. I think that I benefit by being Japanese and being a hard worker, but being a business owner in the U.S with the opportunity to have a vision, to try to build something special without fear of failure, and being able to work very hard toward that goal. I think blending Japanese culture and American culture is the best thing for me!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m most proud of my ability in the art of teaching, and helping my students discover and feel the love of ballet and dance. I teach my students dance, but I feel I share my life experiences and I learn from my students as much or more than I teach them. I believe if you have a passion for something and a passion to share, people will recognize it and pay attention to it and you’ll both be better for that experience. This type of experience I believe helps give meaning to our lives.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would definitely take them to the Garden of the Gods – I love walking the different trails there, and I like to see people from other countries and speaking different languages there. I may take them to the top of Pikes Peak, since it is such a spectacular drive and mountain. We would visit the Air Force Academy, since that’s such an important part of our city’s culture and economy. We would probably do some strolling, shopping and dining in Manitou Springs and old Colorado City. It would be a full week!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
All my students and their families for all their hard work and sacrifices, and my own family for their support and patience.

Instagram: Studio Iku

Facebook: Studio Iku

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