Unleashing strength and confidence through movement – A conversation with the founder of Savage Pole Studio
By Argjenda Miftari
From corporate life to climbing poles, Ayuna has built more than just a studio. Savage Pole Studio and Fitness is a community, a creative outlet, and a celebration of body confidence. We sat down with her to talk about inspiration, challenges, and what makes Savage truly savage.
“I don’t consider myself a professional pole dancer, I wish I was!”
She laughs when I ask how she developed her personal style.
“I just genuinely enjoy it. I get so much inspiration from the incredible dancers I’ve met, either in person or through social media. And honestly, my own team is full of talented people. I’m learning from them all the time.”
Her journey didn’t start in a studio, but in the corporate world, a world that eventually felt too tight for the creativity she wanted to express.
When I ask about Savage’s deeper mission, her eyes light up.
“Pole dancing made me feel completely different about myself.”
“There’s something so powerful about realizing what your body can do. I was doing tricks I thought only gymnasts could pull off. After long, draining days in the office, it became a kind of therapy for me. And when you’re hanging upside down on a pole, trust me, your brain doesn’t have space to think about stress or emails!”
She explains how that feeling, the mind-body disconnect from the chaos of everyday life, became the heart of Savage’s philosophy.
“It’s more than fitness. It’s confidence. It’s a support system. When someone nails a trick for the first time and the whole class claps, it’s priceless. You feel seen. You feel strong.”
“The name Savage is intentional. We want people to unleash their strength.”
Branding Savage wasn’t just about a look or logo. It was about a message.
“We’re still shaping our identity, but what’s always been clear is that we want people to feel empowered. You don’t need to be a pro or have a dancer’s body to start. Anyone can learn. Anyone can feel powerful.”
It’s this inclusive message that resonates with her community and keeps the energy in the studio buzzing.
“I genuinely listen to my team. I learn a lot from them.”
When I ask her how she keeps morale high among instructors and staff, her answer is refreshingly honest.
“Open communication. I take their feedback seriously, and we try new things together. It’s collaborative. It’s a team.”
For anyone hesitant to give pole a try, her advice is simple:
“Don’t be intimidated. We all start somewhere.”
“Everyone feels shy at first. But pole classes are full of supportive, kind people who just want you to have fun. You’ll surprise yourself with how quickly you build strength – and how much you’ll love it.”
Looking ahead, Savage has ambitious plans.
“We want to grow. I want to bring pole to as many people as possible.”
Whether that means expanding class types, launching new programs, or even opening another location, the studio’s mission remains the same: making pole fitness accessible, fun, and empowering.
Being based in Great Western Studios has played a big part in shaping that experience.
“People walk in and say, ‘Wow, this place is amazing.’ And they’re right!”
“Being here gives us a creative edge. The vibe of the building, the community – it’s such a cool environment. Plus, being close to Portobello, Little Venice, and Bayswater makes it special.”
The studio’s creative location allows students to linger after class – grab a coffee, co-work, or just soak in the atmosphere.
Before we wrap up, I throw her a few fun questions. She grins, ready for the quick-fire round.
Describe Savage Studio in 3 words.
“Fun, cozy, supportive.”
First thought when you think of pole dancing?
“It’s so cool. Even now, when I see someone do a new trick or choreography, I’m like, ‘Whoa.’ It pushes me to keep practicing.”
If you had a pole dancing superpower, what would it be?
“Spider-Man hands! Webs to stop me from falling!”
Dream celebrity student?
“Madonna. And it could still happen.”
Post-class go-to snack?
“Water, and a big hearty meal.”
Want to unleash your inner savage?
Visit savagepolestudio.com or drop by Great Western Studios to try a class, meet the team, and see what the hype is all about.
