Meet the Teachers
Ms. Briana
Hip Hop Mini - Junior Level
Hey! My name is Briana Mota. I am 24 years old and have been dancing since the age of 6. Although I have studied all styles, my heart immediately fell in love with hip hop. I have competed and won in many regional, state, national and world competitions throughout the years in high school and after graduating as well. My biggest dance achievement has been winning The Dance Worlds in 2021. I am now a dance teacher/choreographer in Miami teaching ages 3-18. I absolutely love connecting with my students and passing on my passion to the next generation.
Ms. Cristie
Jazz Teen - Senior Level
Born and raised in Miami FL, Cristie began dancing ballet at the age of two. As a teenager she transitioned to other styles; Jazz, Latin Ballroom, Contemporary and more. Around that time, she began teaching at the age of 16.
As an adult, Cristie has continued her dance journey by working for The Star Dance Alliance, being a finalist in many auditions such as the Miami Dolphins, Walt Disney World and The Florida Panthers Dance Team, as well as being in a contemporary company in 2022.
Cristie loves to share her knowledge and love for dance with the younger generation and hopes to make a difference.
Ms. Emelie
Baby Jazz & Ballet
Jazz Mini - Junior Level
Emelie found her passion for dance at 3 years old. She trained at a few studios, however, she is currently training at Dance Attack Miami and she has been on the Somerset Academy Pantherettes dance team for 3 years now, going on 4, under the direction of Stacey Swogger. Emelie is excited to be a part of the first season of Essence Dance Project. She hopes to spark an interest in dance among kids, inspiring them to follow their own artistic paths.
Ms. Saydi
Movement Teen - Senior Level
Our movement class, led by Ms. Saydi with the assistance of Ms. Ava, offers students a dynamic exploration of various dance styles. In this class, students dive into the world of lyrical dance, expressive movement, and improvisation, allowing them to feel the music and express themselves through their bodies. The focus is on learning how to connect with different musical styles and discover the freedom of movement. With personalized attention from both Ms. Saydi and Ms. Ava, students gain a deep understanding of how to interpret music and enhance their creative expression.
Mr. P.K.
Hip Hop Teen - Senior Level
Philip Kendrick (also known as P.K.) was born in West Palm Beach FL. And is a native of south Florida. As a dancer he is part of Tae Talent which is one of the most respected agencies in Miami. As one of the most sought after Hip Hop teachers in Florida he has taught/is teaching in some of the most respected and talked about studios throughout South Florida. (DanceTown. Dance Attack, Focal Point, Stars, Sean's Dance Factory, etc.)
P.K has also shared the stage with Jason Derulo, Don Omar, Marc Anthony, Daddy Yankee, J Balvin, Trick Daddy and Danity Kane and has done videos with the likes of Luis Fonsi, French Montana, Yandel, Maluma, One Direction, Flo Rida etc.
And it doesn't stop there he has also appeared on shows such as MTV Super Sweet 16, BET Spring Bling, Premios Juventud, Premios Lu Nuestro and Rolling Loud.
His passion for dance has inspired others through his artistry of dance. And he is happy to pass on his knowledge and experience to the next generation of dancers as a sought after master teacher and judge.
Ms. Rosy
Ballet Mini - Senior Level
Rosalia is a highly trained classical ballet dancer and instructor with over 20 years of experience. She studied ballet for eight years at prestigious art schools in Cuba, graduating as a professional dancer and instructor in 2007. After her graduation, she joined the Camagüey Cuba Ballet, where she quickly advanced to the rank of Principal Dancer in 2014. Rosalia has also held Principal Dancer positions with the Ballet National of Ecuador and performed internationally in Spain, France, Mexico, and the United States.
Throughout her career, she has danced lead roles in many iconic ballets, including Giselle, Swan Lake, and Romeo and Juliet. She has worked with renowned choreographers and participated in national and international ballet festivals. In addition to her performing career, Rosalia has taught ballet at various studios, including those in California and Florida. She now focuses on teaching, aiming to inspire and positively influence the next generation of dancers.