Carmela is a well of knowledge for sociopolitical aspects of dance; salsa in popular culture, patriarchal constraints, team dynamics, and connection. Her confidence is contagious and has elevated my self esteem and ultimately enhanced my dance ability. She creates a safe space for newcomers to feel empowered and inspired. She always keeps it 100% so you can rely on her to be honest and professional.

Since working with Mela I have started training for competition for the first time. I never considered doing a solo performance before she pushed me to try it, and she has constantly encouraged me to do really hard things: face emotional barriers when it comes to dancing alone (and in front of judges), get through a challenging choreography while still paying attention to detail, and stand alone on a stage, which builds up my confidence as a dancer. Since working with her, my relationship with dance has evolved into a self-love, introspection, and personal growth project as I continue to achieve new goals and try new challenges.

Because I’m highly passionate about dance, it’s sometimes tempting to look a thousand steps ahead and want THOSE results, immediately. However, thanks to Mela’s guidance, I’m learning to fall in love with the process and trust that the rest will come. Dance can be so incredibly vulnerable, but Mela has helped create a space where I’m comfortable with feeling uncomfortable. Her patience and nonjudgmental demeanor allow me to explore, experiment, try, fail, question, and most importantly, be myself. It’s liberating.