Middle Eastern, North African, And Belly Dance Lessons
About
Jesenia is a multi-award-winning professional dancer based out of Orlando, FL. Her performances tell a story of discovery and preservation that are often described as captivating and dynamic. She began her dance journey at the age of 5, learning and dancing Puerto Rican Folk dances. At 8, she was introduced to North African and Levant dances. She fell in love with the dance, music, and culture immediately, and began her endless pursuit for education in Middle Eastern arts. Jesenia is an advocate for always being a student first and avidly participates in workshop; she has studied Esmeralda Colabone, Oxana Bazaeva, Samer Fares, Luna of Cairo, Aziza of Canada, Sadie Marquardt, and Lebanese Simon – among others.
Captivated by history and art that was created due to Arab and African Diaspora, Jesenia continued her studies at the University of Florida to explore the idea of cultural identity in the United States. In 2015, she received a Bachelor of Fine Art with a focus on interdisciplinary art. Since her graduation, Jesenia has taught dance workshops all over Florida, appeared as a guest lecturer at Full Sail University in 2017 and 2019, and is currently a proud member of Tampa’s premier dance company Midnight Lotus Dance Company directed by Oriana.
In relation to dance, Jesenia defines authenticity as the dancer performing in their own essence. Her goal in all her workshops are not only to open dancers to experimentation but to also challenge them to incorporate their own essence and mannerisms while still respecting the culture and art of the Middle East.
AWARDS / RECOGNITIONS
2017 Essence of Belly Dance 1st Place Oriental Category
2017 Essence of Belly Dance People's Choice
2017 Belly Dance Masters 1st Place Pro Oriental Category
2017 Belly Dance Masters 1st Runner Up Pro Fusion category
2017 River City Raqs 1st Place Pro Oriental category
2017 River City Raqs 1st Runner Up Fusion category
2016 River City Raqs 1st Runner Up Pro Oriental category