Born in 1989 in Thun, Switzerland, Jessica Rieben, known in the dance community as B-Girl Jazzy Jes, embarked on her breaking journey at the age of 10. Her mother, a former ballet dancer, played a pivotal role in nurturing her passion for dance, providing a foundation that would later influence her unique style. and8.dance+4Bgirl Bboy+4Red Bull+4
Rise in the Breaking Scene
Immersing herself in the predominantly male-dominated world of breaking, Jazzy Jes trained diligently alongside male counterparts. Her dedication and talent led her to co-found The Yard Dance and Culture District in Thun, a hub for dancers and artists to collaborate and hone their skills. Bgirl Bboy+1Red Bull+1
Association with Prestigious Crews
In 2012, Jazzy Jes achieved a significant milestone by becoming a member of the legendary Rock Steady Crew, one of the oldest and most renowned breaking crews globally. This association not only elevated her status in the international breaking community but also connected her with influential figures who further shaped her artistic journey. Red Bull+4Bgirl Bboy+4Schweizer Radio und Fernsehen (SRF)+4Schweizer Radio und Fernsehen (SRF)
Innovations in Dance: Top Rock Hustle
Collaborating with her partner EZ Mike, Jazzy Jes co-created “Top Rock Hustle,” a dance style that fuses elements of traditional top rock with party dances, drawing inspiration from the Hustle. This innovative approach emphasizes the social aspect of dance, encouraging interaction and connection between dancers, and has been taught in workshops worldwide. and8.dance+3Schweizer Radio und Fernsehen (SRF)+3Red Bull+3
Entrepreneurial Ventures: Jazzy Sensation
Beyond her contributions to dance, Jazzy Jes ventured into entrepreneurship by founding Jazzy Sensation, a jewelry brand that reflects her artistic sensibilities and offers unique, handcrafted pieces. This endeavor showcases her versatility and commitment to artistic expression beyond the dance floor. Red Bull+1Bgirl Bboy+1
Accolades and Achievements
Jazzy Jes’s dedication and skill have been recognized through various accolades. In 2020, she was honored with the Thun Culture Award, acknowledging her contributions to the local arts scene. The following year, she clinched victory at the Red Bull BC One Cypher Switzerland, earning her a spot at the World Final in New York City. Additionally, she secured a commendable ranking in the Paris Olympic Qualifiers 2024, highlighting her as a formidable competitor on the global stage. and8.dance+2Bgirl Bboy+2and8.dance+2
Advocacy for B-Girls in Breaking
As a prominent female figure in a male-dominated arena, Jazzy Jes has been an advocate for the inclusion and recognition of B-Girls in the breaking community. She has expressed enthusiasm for events like the Red Bull BC One World Final, which introduced a B-Girl category, emphasizing the importance of showcasing female talent and inspiring the next generation of dancers. Schweizer Radio und Fernsehen (SRF)+1Red Bull+1
Legacy and Impact
Jazzy Jes’s journey from a young girl in Thun to an internationally recognized B-Girl exemplifies her resilience, creativity, and passion. Her contributions to dance, entrepreneurship, and advocacy have left an indelible mark on the breaking community, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their passions and challenge societal norms.
