Courtney Feliz

Assistant Director

Courtney Feliz is a lover of exploring cultures of the African diaspora through dance, music, language, and food.

Courtney began her dance journey by exploring Latin dance when she moved to NC in 2015. Her heart was first drawn to Dominican Bachata, which she still dances regularly. She is a certified Dominican Bachata instructor through the Academic Network of Dance (formerly Alex and Desiree Dance Worldwide).

Courtney was first introduced to samba by NC Brazilian Arts Project Director, Jenny Geska, and later went on the train with the other NC BAP directors and student team. In December 2020, Courtney began regularly training with Mestre and Director de Passistas Alex Coutinho. She has also trained other Brazilian dance styles with Mestra Nildinha Fonseca, Kellyn Rosa, Mayara Lima, and Duda Dance. In 2022, Courtney paraded in Rio de Janeiro’s Carnaval with three different samba schools.

Samba has brought so much joy to Courtney’s life. She is grateful for the opportunity to respectfully honor and share samba with everyone willing to experience it.