Meet Brijet Finister - Financial Advisor, Former Professional Dancer for the Oakland Raiders, San Francisco 49ers, and the Golden State Warriors, Current Professional CheerleadHER!
She is beauty. She is grace. She is a guiding light with a story that will leave you in awe.
For this week’s edition of MTP we are exclusively featuring…
Brijet Finister
Financial Advisor, Former Professional Dancer for the Oakland Raiders, San Francisco 49ers, and the Golden State Warriors, Current Professional CheerleadHER
1. Tell us all about Brijet! Your background, your dance journey, your personal career, and the highs and lows that molded you into the woman you are today!
My dance journey began at the age of 5 when my parents enrolled me in dance classes as a means to burn off energy. Little did they know that this would become my true calling in life. I inherited my dance genes from my father, who always supported and encouraged my passion. At the age of 19, I achieved a major milestone by joining the Oakland Raiders as part of their professional dance team. It was during this time that I also entered college as a freshman, navigating the challenges of living away from home for the first time.
As I continued my dance career, tragedy struck when my father battled cancer and ultimately passed away the following year while I was with the San Francisco 49ers. Despite the immense heartache, I dedicated that season to him, finding strength and solace in my art. After his passing, I made the courageous decision to transition to the NBA, as my heart could no longer bear returning to the NFL. This new chapter allowed me to grow exponentially as a dancer, but my resilience was truly tested when I tore my ACL during my second season. The road to recovery was arduous, forcing me to learn to walk again and rediscover my passion for dance. Throughout life's ups and downs, one thing remained constant – dance. It became my sanctuary, saving me in times of hardship, and I am eternally grateful for the outlet it provides in my life.
Dance became not only an outlet but also a means to empower and uplift others. It is my mission to inspire women to embrace their strength, both on and off the dance floor. This led me to develop a deep passion for helping women find confidence in themselves and specifically in their finances. With my investment business and seminars, I have been given the opportunity to do so for over 10 years. In addition to that, I recently created “CheerleadHERS," an encouragement page aimed at providing support and fostering confidence in women across all areas of life. Through this platform, I strive to inspire and empower women to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams with unwavering determination.
2. Was your ultimate goal growing up to become a professional cheerleader / dancer? What inspires you to keep dancing and continuing to reach new heights in your career?
Dance has always been my dream, serving as my emotional outlet and the primary means through which I express myself. I knew that dance would forever hold a special place in my life, but little did I anticipate the profound impact it would have on my business endeavors and personal growth. The dance community has become an integral part of my journey, propelling me into womanhood in the most remarkable way. The women I've had the privilege of meeting and the experiences I've shared have enriched my life beyond measure. Dance is not merely a hobby; it has become a lifestyle for me, connecting me with a supportive and empowering community that is truly invaluable. It's more than just movement—it's a powerful force that unites and uplifts, reminding me that together we can achieve extraordinary things.
3. What was your motivation behind creating the CheerleadHER community? What are your hopes and dreams for it as it begins to take off?
The motivation behind creating the CheerleadHER community stems from my deep desire to celebrate and support women throughout life's various challenges and triumphs. I have personally experienced the power of community and support, particularly from my dance sisters, in navigating the ups and downs of life. It is through their unwavering encouragement and understanding that I have found strength and inspiration. Inspired by my father's belief in recognizing and appreciating others while they are still with us, I wanted to create a space where women can uplift and honor one another. A simple act of kindness and a genuine word of appreciation can have a profound impact on someone's life. I want every woman to know that she is valued and cherished for simply being herself. In the CheerleadHER community, we strive to spread positivity, celebrate accomplishments, and create an environment where every woman feels seen, heard, and appreciated. Together, we can cultivate a supportive sisterhood that empowers women to embrace their unique strengths and live their best lives.
4. With a focus in finance, being a published author, making a professional dance comeback post knee surgery, and now starting the CheerleadHER community - what drives you to accomplish so much in separate areas of your life?
The driving force behind my relentless pursuit of success in life is the incredible individuals who have poured their wisdom and support into me, challenging me to keep pushing forward through their own achievements and triumphs. Women like my mom, sisters, Jackie Bob Pearson, Melissa Galvin, Jennifer Amburn, and many others whom I have admired for years have walked the path before me, inspiring me to step into my own journey of empowerment. They have shown me that no matter what life throws at you, it's the ability to bounce back and persevere that truly defines one's strength and determination. Now, it is my turn to pay it forward and become a guiding light for another woman on her journey. I want young women who are coming up alongside me to know that they have the power to achieve what I have accomplished and so much more, even when faced with life's toughest challenges. I strive to be a living testament that resilience and unwavering determination can propel them to new heights. Together, we can create a generation of empowered women who refuse to be defined by their circumstances and instead embrace their innate strength and limitless potential.
5. What is your best piece of advice that you'd like to share with others?
My advice is simple yet powerful: never give up. Never give up on yourself or your dreams. Life has a way of throwing unexpected challenges our way, hitting us hard at times. But remember, if you have a dream, it was placed within you by God for a reason. You were destined to see it through. In the face of adversity, lean on your community for support. Surround yourself with those who believe in you and uplift you. Draw strength from their encouragement and keep pushing forward. Believe in your own capabilities and resilience. You have the strength to overcome any obstacle that comes your way. Trust in yourself, trust in your journey, and trust in the process. You've got this, babe. Keep pursuing your dreams with unwavering determination, and you will achieve greatness.
HUGE thank you to Brijet for taking time out of her schedule to share with the MTP fam. Wow… honestly, I am speechless. I am in awe. I am inspired. I am truly grateful for the vulnerable, humble, and empowering message that Brijet shared today. My hope is that you walk away from reading this article a little happier and encouraged to go after your dreams regardless of what you have gone through/are currently going through, and are inspired to empower others to do the same. Like Brijet said - you’ve got this babe.