Armani Latimer left a lasting impact on the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Not only was she one of the members of the squad that spearheaded the fight for higher pay, but she also used her platform to spread awareness about alopecia. Latimer spoke to NYOTA about balancing her professional pursuits with cheerleading, performing without her wig, and her advice for young women trying to build their self-confidence.

The day you found out you made the team and would be a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, what was the first thought that ran through your head?

My first thought after making the team was that I couldn’t believe I could actually call myself a DCC, and I couldn’t wait to call my family!

An inspiring aspect of watching America’s Sweethearts was seeing how you balanced your love of dance and cheerleading with your law career; instead of giving one passion up for the other, you explored both. Did this juggling act help you become more organized and disciplined and aid you in both of your professional pursuits?

Yes, for sure! You have to learn time management and separate your lives. When I was at work, I was only focusing on that, and then when it was time to head to practice, I shifted my focus. It also helps you become more organized and learn how to create a routine that works for your lifestyle.

Once the team started filming Season 1 of America’s Sweethearts, did you immediately see it as a way to spread awareness about alopecia? 

No actually. We didn’t know the type of impact the show would have, so I was very nervous about sharing something so raw and personal on a large scale.

When you performed without your wig at the #MyCauseMyBoots game, it was emotional for both you and your teammates. How do you hope that moment impacts viewers who tune into the show and young women who have alopecia?

I believe so! Everyone gave me a hug beforehand and afterwards! They all knew how big a deal it was for me to be stepping out on the field bald, and I was so happy to have all of them cheering me on! I obviously felt all the emotions from that day and still do when I think back to it! I hope that it shows people it’s okay not to be “normal” or “perfect.” The things that make us the most special are our differences.

A huge part of Season 2 was the fact that you helped spearhead a historical pay increase for the team. What were some of the biggest lessons that experience taught you?

That we are more powerful than we think, but even more than that, there is power in numbers! The change was possible because we stuck together.

While you were a DCC, you went from rookie to veteran to first group leader, and now you’re a DCC All Star. Did being on the team and having these milestone moments help build your self-confidence, not only as a dancer but on a personal level?

I think so! It definitely helps you feel confident in your abilities and preparation! Knowing that your hard work is recognized is a boost that everyone deserves in life!

You were once part of the Carolina Dance Team and returned to choreograph a special dance for halftime. Was it exciting to return to your roots and help the next generation of USC dancers?

Oh absolutely! I love seeing how the team has grown and gotten more challenging over the years! I always joke that I was born at the right time because I wouldn’t make the team now, but it’s seriously because of how incredibly talented they are! I was absolutely honored to go back and teach them. I hope they were able to learn a little something from me even if it’s something small. My heart bleeds garnet and black, so any and every opportunity to go back to my roots I will absolutely take!

What advice would you offer to young women seeking to develop their self-confidence?

First and foremost, always believe in yourself. It’s easy to become your own toughest critic, but choosing kindness toward yourself—especially in challenging moments—makes all the difference. One of my favorite quotes comes from a movie: ‘Don’t let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.’ Cheesy or not, it’s a powerful reminder. Nerves are natural, but if you let fear hold you back, you’ll never know what you’re capable of. Confidence doesn’t come from avoiding challenges—it comes from facing them and proving to yourself that you can achieve anything.

This story first ran in NYOTA’s Empowerment Issue. Read more from the Issue here and purchase a print copy here.