Yendi Phillipps shows some moves at the Miss Jamaica World 2007 coronation show, held at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel, New Kingston, on Saturday, August 25, 2007. - Winston Sill

Yendi says she does not want to pursue a professional dance career in Jamaica although she has been dancing all her life.

"I have veered away from a typical dancer's life 'cause it does not pay much in Jamaica," said Yendi, while noting that she will pursue a master's degree in recreation and leisure management instead of dance.

Her parents enrolled her in the Edna Manley College Junior Department between three and 15 years old. With the group, she performed in Finland and Canada.

After completing St Andrew High School for Girls, Yendi attended Edna Manley College's School of Dance, where she got her first degree and the Rex Nettleford Award for Choreography. While there she was also part of the National Dance Theatre Company.

The financial benefits of being a professional dancer are small but Yendi says she loves teaching the art to children.

"I love teaching dance. I love seeing children fresh and trying to learn a dance. I love seeing the joy on their faces when they get it right," she told THE STAR.

Though the training is rigorous, Yendi loves the perks of dancing which include a toned and conditioned body, being fit and healthy, as well as the posture and poise she gets from doing the art.

Chat with Yendi

Yendi fans, this is your opportunity to interact with the STAR of the Month via the internet and telephone.

STAR of the Month, Yendi, will be giving her special fans a chance to chat with her on Tuesday, July 29. Log on to www.go-jamaica.com to chat online with Yendi between 5 and 6 p.m. or call THE STAR toll-free line at 1-888-The Star to speak with her via telephone from 6-7 p.m. Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime chance!!!