Jamilia’s passion for dance and serving the community began at an early age. She has over two decades of dance experience and has led several community and church based youth programs throughout the last 15 years. It was through these experiences that she learned just how beneficial early exposure to caring adults and arts programs can be on the mental wellbeing of youth. Jamilia noticed the concerning rise in adolescent depression, school violence, and youth suicide and felt compelled to make a change, one child at a time. This led to the founding of Abundant Youth Empowerment (AYE). With a strong background in youth development and dance instruction, Jamilia ensures the children that go through the AYE program are provided with a foundation for success and are empowered to reach their full potential in life.