Nationality: Filipina, Spanish, German
Born and Raised: Born in the Philippines, moved to the United States at age 7. Lived in NJ, VA and FL. Currently in Orlando, FL.
Children: A 10 year old son named Noah who is in 5th grade and does competitive swimming and tennis.
Pole Fitness: Dara has always had a love for sports, and stayed in shape in her younger years with tennis, volleyball, field hockey and cheerleading. Looking for a new way to stay fit, Dara first noticed a Groupon to try out Pole Fitness and was very curious to give it a try as it seemed like a very fun way to get exercise.
Her fellow mom friends didn’t need much convincing to join her, and they all attended their first class together in 2013. From that moment on they were immediately hooked. They have continued to make Pole Fitness a significant part of their everyday lives, and it has managed to bring them even closer as friends.
For Dara, in addition to keeping physically fit, Pole Fitness also brings a challenging and fun aspect to her busy “working mom” routine.
Inspiration for Fitness: Dara’s son, Noah, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in September 2014. He is her main source of inspiration. The drastic change of diet and seeing what her son has to go through on a daily basis, Dara decided to take her fitness up a notch and decided to compete in the WBFF Fitness Show in Orlando in May 2015.
Fitness Competitions
- WBFF – Orlando – May 23rd 2015
- 1st Place – Bikini Short Class
- 1st Place – Bikini Masters (35+)
- Pro Card Award
- WBFF Worlds – Las Vegas – August, 15th, 2015
- Pro Debut
- Bikini Pro Competitor
Career and Education
My education is technology based. I have 2 Associate’s Degrees and a Bachelor’s Degree from University of Central Florida. I’m currently working on my Master’s degree as well. I am certified as an Electronic Discovery Specialist.
I am a Litigation Technology Coordinator at a law firm in downtown Orlando. I manage cases involving electronic discovery. I have been at the same firm for over 10 years.
Non-Profit
I am co-founder of a 501c3 charity called iPrevail International Foundation. This was formed during the wake of Typhoon Haiyan which destroyed the Philippines (my homeland). My friends Tina, Todd and I decided to create this organization so that we can do our part to help. Our mission is to help those in need who have encountered personal tragedies.
I am a huge advocate for the JDRF. When my son was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in September 2014, I immediately joined the JDRF. In March 2015, I ran my first JDRF One Walk team, raising over $3000 to help find a cure.