Legendary Xoey West / Icon Xoey Mulan is taking the world by storm.
In a digital world where most platforms try to be everything for everyone, Xoey West had a different vision: create a space built specifically for the ballroom community—by the community, for the community. What started as a dream in 2016 has become Ballroom Plus, the first-ever app solely dedicated to uplifting, preserving, and connecting ballroom culture around the world.
Originally from Baltimore, MD and now living in Richmond, VA, Xoey is more than just a tech founder—she is a full-time nursing facility worker and a student studying both cosmetology and business management. A proud trans woman, Xoey uses her voice and vision to empower others, particularly LGBTQ+ youth looking for representation and a real sense of community in the tech space.
A Digital Safe Space, Just Like Ballroom Was Always Meant to Be
“The app itself was created to make a space specifically for our community—especially ballroom,” Xoey shares. “A place just like how ballroom was created years ago: as a safe space.”
And that is exactly what Ballroom Plus offers. Live streaming, real-time chat, comment threads, sharing options, trending audio, a “find a ball” feature, and even an online store—it is all there. With these tools, users across the globe can vibe together, stay updated on events, and support each other’s artistry in real time.
“We are the #1 app for ballroom,” Xoey says proudly. “All of our features are about building real-time bonds that stretch worldwide.”
From a Dream to a Download
Though the concept began in 2016, the app officially went into development in 2022 and launched in 2024. With a small team—co-founders, international developers, family, and friends—Xoey built something that competes with social giants like Instagram and TikTok. And while shifting user habits takes time, Ballroom Plus is steadily gaining traction—especially in the wake of discussions about a potential TikTok ban.
“People are slowly switching, and the community response has been amazing. We have a 5-star rating across both platforms,” she says. “Yes, people ask about monetization like on TikTok, but they understand we’re only six months in.”
Xoey and her team keep their growing user base updated through Threads, posting about new features, bug fixes, and upcoming events.
Preserving the Past, Building the Future
Far from just being a social app, Ballroom Plus is a digital preservation tool. Available in 237 countries, with top downloads in the US, Brazil, Canada, and France, it keeps ballroom culture secure on Amazon Web Services—a top cloud platform used by major corporations.
“The misconception is that ballroom is still underground. It is not,” Xoey emphasizes. “With every swipe on our app, you see an art form that is mainstream. We post celebrity moments and sell fashion with terms like “fierce” and “cunt”—the language and style that we created.”
Her app challenges outdated perceptions and positions ballroom as both a global and digital movement. “We have come out of the group chats and private Facebook groups. Now, you can open an app and find a ball anywhere in the world. It has never been done before!”
Representation and Resilience
As a trans woman stepping into the tech world, Xoey is forging a path not just for herself, but for others like her. “My journey has had its ups and downs, but mostly, it has been great,” she reflects. “I do not have much experience in the tech industry, but I am working my way in.”
Her message to other trans and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs is clear: “The sky is the limit. Dream big and go after it. Never let anyone or anything stop you from achieving greatness.”
Featured image credit: DepositPhotos.com
