I got to know Irene when she came to attend my art classes. I was instantly taken by her ageless beauty, genuine care, and the most generous heart.

At age 10, Chelsea started a charity to provide art supplies for underprivileged kids. During the pandemic, she has sent out thousands of art supply kits to children in foster care and homeless shelters.

My friend Delphine was one of the first people in my local community to make masks voluntarily when they were in great scarcity. To date she has handmade thousands of beautiful masks!

Tiassa Samayian Mutunkei is a courageous girl living in Kenya. A teenager who calls herself the “Wildlife Warrior”, Tiassa started the movement Teens4Wildlife, empowering African teens for change.

In her later 70s, Rita is active in building community. Like grandmothers would do, Rita gently and firmly nurtures not only my personal growth, but also the community's well being.

While balancing a part-time career in IT, Raka is devoted to the ancient Vedic Arts such as Indian Classical Dance and Ayurveda. It is not an easy pursuit but she is courageously taking this journey within.

Jane is my dearest mentor and role model. Jane has shaped my life in so many ways. To me, she is a true leader of both great kindness and great strength.

Chen Shu is my beloved collaborator when we created empowering art projects with migrant workers in Beijing, China. Petite and sweet, Chen Shu has a fierce spirit and tremendous power when it comes to pursuing social justice.

This painting is my humble effort to convey the beautiful spirit of my beloved dance teacher and internationally renowned artist Colleena Shakti, who has inspired me for many years.

I was beyond thrilled when Hazel Soan, the world renowned watercolor artist agreed to be in this series.  Hazel is a true inspiration to me. Her watercolor exudes passion for life and nature. I have learned so much from her many books and videos.  

Fariba is a great friend of mine. Originally from Iran, Fariba is a retired nurse living with her husband, two wonderful sons, and one super smart cat in Florida. She is the most gentle soul I've ever met. 

Jenny Hennek and her dance sisters from Chicago. Jenny is a very inspiring belly dance artist, yoga teacher, and life coach. She radiates light of love, literally, and she helps me be more fully in who I truly am.

Vanda Rice is one of the kindest people I’ve met, a community leader and advocate for social justice. I’ve had the privilege to collaborate with her on several empowerment theater projects in her beloved Appalachian community. 

Coco from Berlin. Coco is an inspiring belly dance artist and educator. I have benefited so much from her YouTube channel, through which she generously shares knowledge about belly dance and women's vitality. 

Andrea Zang, a graduate student studying urban planning at Florida State University. I met Andrea at the Building Creative Communities Conference. I was very touched by Andrea's story and her courage and perseverance.  

Erin from St Petersburg, Florida, is a professional belly dance artist pursuing her graduate degree to become a therapist. Erin is one of my favorite belly dance teachers! She is full of life and her passion is so contagious. I just love to be around her!