Neilah Carrillo Noa

2023-2024 Towards Creative Leadership Fellow

Neilah is a dedicated professional dancer, martial artist, photographer and community leader with a deep passion for dance, hip-hop culture, photography, community and unity. With 15+ years of experience, Neilah has coached dance and martial arts, supported community leaders and led One Take Studios for 6+ years, wearing multiple hats as the owner, program director, event organizer, photographer, videographer, instructor and community leader. Her journey in dance and hip-hop began at 5, intensifying in her teens. She has committed to teaching volunteers who help kids from Puerto Rico's public schools through dance, striving to uplift the community by impacting souls through the art forms, believing that small steps create lasting change. Passion, love and commitment make the impossible possible.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Neilah finds joy in giving back through hip-hop culture. This balance enriches her creativity and contributions to Words Beats & Life. Chosen by Red Bull for four years running, she has been part of events like Red Bull Dance Your Style and BCOne. Collaborating with DMV community leaders, including dancers, DJs and graffiti artists, they unite as One Take Studios providing fun and educational activities for youth while fundraising for schools. She has also worked with WBL in the past. Hola! Celebrities, Voyage Baltimore, DC Contigo, Fox Baltimore, Red Bull, Loudoun Now and others recognize her work. She is excited to collaborate with WBL on future projects and is grateful for the opportunity to explore and uplift hip-hop culture. Let's create and learn together.