Local teenager uses TikTok platform to spread love and joy through dance videos

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) — In the TikTok bio of Nina Simone Ray she says she was “born with a little extra flare”, but that is an understatement.

At the age of 19, Nina has become TikTok famous for her infectious joy and her extra chromosome that makes her stand out.

Nina was diagnosed with down syndrome at just 19 days old.

“It was an answered prayer,” Nina’s mother Susan Ray said. “I prayed and said ok this extra chromosome is here and I just want her to be seen for herself. I never wanted her to be an accessory to the family.”

As a recent Central High School graduate, Nina has begun planning for her very bright future.

“I’m going to be a Zumba instructor and I’m going to be a dancer and teach all the classes to the dancers.” Nina Simone Ray said.

Nina’s mother says she has been dancing since she was 4-years-old, but she has been swaying and bobbing to music from before she could even walk. Her popularity on the social media platform started when her mother posted two videos of her dancing and by the end of the week, Nina was at nearly 10,000 followers.

As of today, Nina’s TikTok page sits at 2.2 million followers and has garnered more than 70.7 million likes.

The TikTok star not only wants to spread hope and joy through her fun videos, but also love.

“I’m Nina because I love myself and being me is amazing. I love you and I love everybody.”