Nyemah Gillespie, a powerhouse of talent and inspiration, hails from the Garden State of New Jersey. From a young age, Nyemah's life has been an extraordinary dance, and her journey is a testament to her unwavering passion and dedication.
Born and raised in Camden, NJ, Nyemah's dance odyssey began at the tender age of 3, sparking a lifelong love affair with movement and expression. Her initial training at Sydney King School Of Dance, Girls On The Move, and Dance Sensations of NJ set the stage for an illustrious career. Nyemah's star continued to rise as she pursued her passion at Creative Arts High School, where she majored in Dance. Over her four years there, she dazzled audiences across the tri-state area, performing for artists, politicians, and newscasters.
A pivotal chapter in Nyemah's journey was her membership in Eleone Connection in Philadelphia, under the mentorship of luminaries like Shawn Lamere Williams, Wayne St. David, Laceda Nelson, and Dara Stevens-Meredith. Her senior year proved transformative, as she embarked on a journey to Ghana, West Africa, sharing her art with churches, schools, and community centers, fostering cross-cultural connections that continue to resonate. Her remarkable talent also caught the eye of Jill Scott, leading to numerous performances for the Blues Babe Foundation and the prestigious Coca-Cola Scholarship for Best Performance in Dance in 2006.
Nyemah's pursuit of excellence led her to Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland, where she further honed her craft. She became a key member and leader of the Magnificent Marching Machine's Foxxy Ladies and the Modern Dance Ensemble. Her dedication was rewarded with scholarships and opportunities to attend Dallas Black Dance Theatre's Summer Intensives. This experience paved the way for a dynamic stint with the Atlanta Dance Connection in Georgia, where she graced the stage with Allyne D. Gartrell, Juanita Bynum, and T.C Carson, solidifying her reputation as a dance virtuoso.
Upon her return to Camden, Nyemah was determined to give back to her community. She initiated her journey of mentorship and community engagement, organizing successful Alumni Benefit Concerts and teaching dance to local youth through programs sponsored by the Police Athletic League (PAL). She also brought her talents to the city's senior citizens by teaching Sweating To The Oldies and other fitness classes at Malandra Hall. Her passion extended to the Camden High School Marching Panthers, where she served as the coordinator of the award-winning dance line. Nyemah's mission was clear: to be a positive role model, instill college-level dance routines, and promote etiquette, self-respect, and dedication to the craft among young women in her community.
Today, Nyemah is the proud Owner and director of Dare 2 Dance, LLC in Camden, NJ. Her mission has always been to "Raise Great Dancers & Even Greater Human Beings." Nyemah and Dare 2 Dance are deeply embedded in the community, spearheading Back-to-School giveaways, Coat Drives, Hygiene Tours for local high schools, Community Clean-ups, Trunk or Treats, Toy Giveaways, Mentoring young women & so much more. In 2019, she expanded her brand and added Gymnastics to her programming as well, encouraging traditional values with the sport such as Strength, Flexibility, Self-Confidence, Independence & Sportsmanship.
She is a recipient of numerous accolades, including the Women Of Purpose Award from former Camden Mayor Dana Redd, Outstanding Woman In The Arts Award from the National Hook-Up Of Black Women Cherry Hill Chapter, D.I.V.A Award from the Camden Chapter, Outstanding Service Award from I Dare To Care Association, the Angel Award from Starlet Rose Creation and acknowledged on the famous blog “Baller Alert” for her contributions to her community.
Nyemah Gillespie is not only a remarkable dancer and teacher but also a philanthropist, motivational speaker, and catalyst for positive change. Serving as a Mother, Daughter, Business Owner, Community Leader and School Board Member, Her journey is a testament to her belief that "It's More To Life Than The Block You Live On."