Michula discovered pole dancing in 1999 years ago and soon began instructing it in the evenings in 2002. With the trained and natural ability of a teacher (due to teaching elementary school science), she was able to break down and teach the most difficult elements to her clients. For six years, Michula continued to teach science during the day and pole dancing in the evenings. Yet she soon realized that she preferred teaching pole dancing to adults moreover than instructing elementary school students.
It was then that Antix Fitness Studio was born in July 2006 with her studio opening in February 2007. Michula, now a master-instructor is able to meld her love of teaching and fitness into one – pole dancing. Michula, was the former west coast representative for the U.S. Pole Dance Federation and is now the West Coast Ambassador and board member of the Pole Fitness Association. Michula is also a member of the elite performance troupe, the VertiGirls doing workshops and touring. As a founding member of the East Meets West, Michula wants to help unite other studios around the world in promoting this amazing sport/art with events and competitions that set the highest of standards.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Samantha Jones started pole dancing in 2006, after the birth of her first child.  For her, the challenge of getting moves and the fabulous women she was able to befriend, created a passion that is still going strong.  In 2008, she began instructing at E-Fit Dance in Charlottesville, VA and has enjoyed helping to create new programs and encouraging students to challenge their physical skills and performing art.  She is a member of the performance troupe, the Femme Fatales, who perform burlesque and aerial acts for local businesses and venues.  In 2009, Samantha acted as the USPDF east coast representative and hosted the regional competition in Charlottesville with her studio.  In doing so, it further cemented Samantha’s desire to create fun and unique events for everyone, and so with Michula, East Meets West Pole Events was born.  Samantha is also a partner in “Whatever, Kitten,” a pole and burlesque inspired t-shirt and handbag line.   She looks forward to positive changes in the pole community and more opportunities for that community to come together.