A Coach, A Dad, A Mentor: How Vimi Rivera Builds Families Through Dance
Dance coach, director, and Legit Status founder Vimi Rivera talks about his love for dance and how it made him a better dad to his daughter
Filipino talent is world-class, as seen in the personalities who have made waves on the international stage. It’s not just in singing—Filipino dance groups have made the country proud in global competitions. One of them is Legit Status, a dance crew that has competed internationally in several hip-hop competitions and won many awards.
At the heart of this success is Vicente Miguel “Vimi” Rivera, founder and head choreographer of Legit Status. Aside from competing in different hip-hop dance competitions, he has choreographed for numerous dance groups, served as director for World of Dance Philippines, is a UAAP Streetdance commissioner, and judged different dance segments of ABS-CBN shows. His most recent stint was as one of the dance council members on Time to Dance, the reality show hosted by Gela Atayde and Robi Domingo.
For years, Vimi’s world revolved around choreography, competition, and creating magic onstage. Everything changed when he met the rhythm of his life—his daughter, Aleyna, and wife, Winshayna.
How Dance Redefined Vimi Rivera as a Dad
Vimi Rivera has dedicated his life to the art of dance. His first formal dance training started when he joined the U.P. Streetdance Club under Jerome Dimalanta. He later coached and mentored dance groups like U.P. Streetdance Club in 2013, The Assumption Dance Company, Assumption College Dance Company, and La Salle Greenhills AirForce.
Before Winshayna and Aleyna came into his life, it was all about work.
“My 20s were mostly just work, and relentless at it,” he shares with Modern Parenting. “You do something with laser focus for a decade, and eventually, the productivity comes with less effort and time. You master your craft, build a professional team, and overall manage time better. This helped me with work-life balance. I wanted to be as present with my family as I am with work.”
Now a dad, Vimi says dance and mentoring have taken on new meaning.
“It expanded my perspective and sense of purpose,” he said. “The commitment, professionalism, and passion have always been there, but fatherhood further cemented my values system as a coach and leader.”
The Support System He’s Grateful For
As a choreographer, dance director, and coach, Vimi’s work has taken him all over the Philippines and the world. With training and rehearsals consuming much of his schedule, he’s thankful that he and Winshayna can balance their responsibilities and ensure Aleyna is cared for.
“Our dance careers don’t overlap as much as before. She’s a professional makeup artist and has a costume business. We have a dance studio together, and she still helps take care of Legit Status—that’s where our dance lives still meet,” he says. “We just make sure to be each other’s solid support system—whether that’s through listening or offering suggestions when needed.”
Vimi adds that Aleyna already understands what he does—and he’ll support her fully if she chooses to dance.
“She’s now 3 and loves to dance, that’s for sure,” he beamed. “But whatever she eventually chooses to pursue, we’ll support her fully. Our role is to help her understand the value of hard work, excellence, and consistency.”
Aleyna has also taught him one lesson that he now brings into his dance leadership: patience.
The Joy of Mentoring Dance Groups
Beyond being Aleyna’s dad, Vimi is a father figure to many of his dancers, something he takes seriously during rehearsals.
“I try to make sure that my members feel safe and like they belong. This goes beyond how it affects them during competitions,” he shared. “The trust amongst the team helps with overall togetherness when they compete, but the main goal is for them to feel like they have a second family. I built this culture with the core members first, and they helped instill this in the rest of the team.”
While he has enjoyed competing on the world stage, Vimi has embraced a deeper calling: mentorship.
“Coaching is truly a calling for me. It’s something that, fortunately, also helps provide for my family,” he says. “I realized early on that my purpose was to guide others. Coming from a family deeply involved in church ministry, that sense of service always stayed with me.”
What keeps him driven as a mentor is the belief that excellence inspires.
“These kids listen more when they’re inspired by something they can relate to. To be an effective leader, intention is never enough. That’s why I use excellence in competition and performance as an anchor—to lead them closer to God.”
The Lasting Impact of Dance
As Filipino dance groups like Legit Status continue to improve their craft, Vimi is aware of the sacrifices dancers make, especially in a field that isn’t always predictable.
“The concern for financial security is valid, but really, nothing is ever secure,” he explains. “There’s no perfect timeline for figuring out your calling. Once your heart leads you to something, commit to it. Having a backup plan helps—but ultimately, you need to give your all to your chosen path.”
He believes the arts have already proven themselves as a viable career, and that this is just the beginning.
Giving Back to the Dance Community
Having achieved so much as a performer, choreographer, and mentor, Vimi is committed to helping the local dance community grow.
“Beyond guiding my circle, I’ve always pushed for the growth of our community,” Vimi said. “From organizing events to flying in international choreographers early on, to representing the Philippines and being involved in TV and other projects—yes, it’s personal growth, but the intent is always to help the community grow in reach, relevance, and opportunity.”
His Message to His Daughter and Students
Because it’s Father’s Month, Vimi closes with heartfelt messages to Aleyna and all his “kids.”
To my lovely daughter Aleyna,
Our world revolves around you. You give us so much joy. Life will be full of ups and downs, but know that your Mom and I will be celebrating with you and comforting you always and forever. Never ever hesitate to reach for the stars, we will always be behind you. We love you!
Love,
Dad and Momma
To my students,
I’ve dedicated my life to coaching. You all truly are family to me, and I’d go the extra mile to give you the best support and guidance. Dance will forever connect us! Always strive for excellence, no matter how hard life may be at times. Never rely on emotion; focus on developing habits that help you progress. Whatever career path you may pursue, always apply the lessons we’ve established. Here to support you even from afar.
Always with you,
Coach Vimi
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