I am delighted to invite you to the BrasilFest 2023, celebrating its glorious 25th anniversary. At this captivating event, you'll have the incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the richness of Brazilian culture, including its vibrant music, captivating dances, and, of course, its delectable cuisine.

It is a privilege for me to share that I will be one of the distinguished guest speakers for the "Stories of Success" series. During this engaging session, I will delve into my remarkable journey in the world of dance, particularly in ballet. From my humble beginnings to the challenges I've encountered, as well as the significant milestones I've achieved along the way. This discussion will cover my experiences performing with multiple ballet companies and culminate in the pivotal moment when I proudly assumed the role of Principal Dancer at the prestigious Pacific Northwest Ballet.

This achievement was not only a personal victory but also a historic one, as I became the first Black Principal Dancer in the company's history.

Looking ahead, I will also reflect upon my aspirations for the upcoming generation of young Black talents in the realm of ballet. It is my sincere hope that my journey can serve as an inspiration for others and contribute to the diversification and empowerment of ballet's future talents and stars.