Reality stars Willier and Jones are proof that dreams really do come true

If two is really better than one, then the reality-star duo of Linsay Willier, from “Canada’s Next Top Model,” and James Jones, from “So You Think You Can Dance Canada,” are ready for anything. After being friends for four years and experiencing individual success, the pair has united to form Dreams In Motion. Willier and James’ company offers interactive workshops for youth during which the stars not only share their personal experiences but also drive home the message of following your dreams.

Although they are best known as reality-TV stars, Willier and Jones emphasize that they are no different than anyone else.

“We’re very honest and down-to-earth,” said Jones, “We share our stories and tell people where we came from and how we got to where we are today.”

Willier was raised on the Sucker Creek First Nation outside of Edmonton, while Jones was born in Steen River in northern Alberta.

Willier said the most important aspect of their message is hard work. “Everything in life takes hard work and they have to do it,” she said, “We really focus on kids finding their own passion and what it takes to make their dreams come true.”

Depending on the needs of the organizers, Willier and Jones offer speeches as well as interactive, comedic workshops. During the workshops, participants can try their hand at learning a choreographed dance routine with Jones or participating in a runway walk with Willier.
“We try and make it as appealing as possible by putting ourselves in the kid’s shoes – would we think this is interesting or fun?” said Willier.

Although they share an important message, they acknowledge that their unique television experience definitely adds to their appeal.

When you’re on TV, people like that,” said Willier, “You’re tagged as a celebrity, so it gives you something behind your name.” During their workshops, they are open and honest about their experiences to satisfy their fans’ curiosity.

“They always ask her about the toilet paper dress,” said Jones with a laugh, referring to an episode of “Canada’s Next Top Model” when Willier wore a dress constructed of toilet paper which later ripped.

Because TV shows are heavily edited, they also share the nitty-gritty side that viewers don’t get to see. “Filming a show is hard work, 20 hour days,” says Willier, “You’re physically, mentally and emotionally exhausted.”

Looking ahead, Willier and Jones are focused on making their company a success.

“I really would like to see Dreams In Motion become a nationally-known entertainment/education company,” said Willier.

In the meantime, they continue to pursue their own passions. Most recently, Jones danced during the opening ceremonies of the Winter Olympics in Vancouver. This summer, he will be competing in a world breakdance competition in Los Angeles.

As for Willier, she is still involved in fashion. “I’ll be walking in Toronto Fashion Week next month and I just got in contact with the people from Vancouver Fashion Week,” she said.

Clearly, Willier and Jones have the drive to achieve all their dreams and then some.

For more information on Dreams In Motion, please visit: http://thedreamsproject.com