Karina’s enchanting dance journey began in her hometown of St. Petersburg, Russia, where at the tender age of five, she embraced the world of ballroom dancing. For over fifteen years, she graced the stages of St. Petersburg, competing in the amateur division with remarkable success. Her relentless dedication and exceptional talent led her to claim numerous titles, including the esteemed St. Petersburg Multi-Time Champion and Multi-Time European Championship Winner and Finalist. Additionally, she achieved the honor of being a Semi-Finalist in the Russian Open International 10 Dance and a Finalist in the Dutch Open Ballroom under 21 years old.
In 1996, she added scholarly accomplishments to her illustrious journey, graduating with honors from the esteemed St. Petersburg Humanitarian University as a Professional Ballroom and Latin Coach. Furthermore, she earned a Judge Degree and Qualifications, further solidifying her expertise in the dance world.
In 2002, Karina embarked on a new adventure, relocating to the United States. There, she graced the esteemed halls of the Fred Astaire East Side Manhattan Studio, where she shared her artistry and knowledge as an esteemed instructor. Even as she embraced her role as an instructor, her passion for competitive dancing remained undiminished. Together with her husband, Vlad Ivanov, she continued to shine in the Professional Ballroom Division, achieving the distinguished accolade of USA Professional International Ballroom Championship Finalists.
In 2006, Karina’s dreams and aspirations culminated in a beautiful crescendo when she moved to Syracuse, NY. With boundless enthusiasm and dedication, she opened a new chapter in her dance journey by becoming an esteemed owner of a Fred Astaire Franchised Dance Studio in the heart of Syracuse.
Karina’s exceptional artistry and extensive experience in the world of ballroom dancing make her an invaluable asset to the Fred Astaire Syracuse team. Her unwavering commitment to excellence, paired with her nurturing approach, creates an environment where students flourish and develop a deep appreciation for the beauty of dance. Karina’s inspiring presence and the wealth of knowledge she brings enrich the lives of students and instructors alike, solidifying her as an integral part of the Fred Astaire Syracuse family. Her passion for dance, coupled with her genuine dedication to sharing its joys with others, makes Karina a cherished mentor and role model, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who have the pleasure of dancing under her guidance.
