Many roots, many colors, one vision.

MISSION

SHAE Movement’s mission is to share and celebrate West African dance, drum, song and energy with local, national, and international communities!

We do so through classes, performances, workshops, volunteering and for-profit events. Through dance, we bring the rich heritage of African performance to children, teens, adults, and seniors of all levels and abilities. Whenever possible, we nurture and expand contacts between our African dance community in Charlotte, NC and other enthusiasts of African dance across the world.

HISTORY

SHAE Movement African Arts, co-founded by Niche Faulkner and LeShea Stukes, was created to further the knowledge and study of African culture beyond the dance floor.

Under the guidance of the two, the company has soared including hosting multiple community dance concerts, growing its community class offerings, performing around the country and co-hosting its first West African Dance Conference, Nanioubolo.

LeShea Stukes & Niche’ Faulkner, Co-Founders

PRESENT

SHAE Movement is currently led by Co-Founder and Artistic Director, Niche Faulkner and its Board Members.

Having studied African Dance extensively under the tutelage of the late Mama Kadiatou Conte and Balafon West African Dance Ensemble, Faulkner hopes to not only keep West African culture and Conte’s tradition alive but also continue to expand the knowledge of and respect for the deep beauty and artistic fortitude of Africa.

Master Teacher, The Late Mama Kadiatou Conte, Guinea, West Africa

Board of Directors

  • Niche Faulkner

    EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

  • Sydney Weaver-Bey

    CO-CHAIR

  • Mavis Gant

    CO-CHAIR

  • Hope McDougald

    SECRETARY

  • Jeanne Elishebah Macklin

    TREASURER