OUR TEAM

Annabelle Bowman

InSpira EXP Ballet InStructor

Annabelle Bowman, a versatile dancer from Washington DC, is trained in ballet, pointe, modern, contemporary, and jazz dance. With a rich educational background including BalletNova's pre-professional conservatory and training at esteemed institutions like Princeton Ballet School and the Ailey School, she has also collaborated with renowned companies such as Mark Morris Dance and Matthew Bourne's New Adventures. Currently studying at Mason Gross School of the Arts as a BFA dance student, Annabelle teaches ballet, jazz, and creative movement classes for children while pursuing her Pilates certification through Polestar Pilates.

Bria Vainqueur

InSpira EXP Ballet & Jazz InStructor

Bria, a New Jersey native and InSpira "lifer," started dancing at age three and trained with InSpira Performing Arts Academy, Princeton Youth Ballet, and other prestigious institutions. "Dance is my life; I can't imagine it any other way," she says. Currently part of the Pa’lante Scholarship Program at Ballet Hispánico, Bria is finishing her studies online with Kean University and pursuing her professional ballet dreams in New York City. She aspires to inspire audiences and make a lasting impact through her passionate performances.

Jerryl Sharif

Little InSpirations & InSpira EXP Hip Hop InStructor

Jerryl "Butta" Sharif is a renowned dancer and choreographer known for his cool and collected attitude. With extensive experience teaching all age groups, he excels at improving students' knowledge of music and dance. From private schools to workshops, Jerryl has taught in various settings, specializing in hip-hop, poppin, locking, and house dance. He has collaborated with esteemed dance companies, including Dance Warrior and NJPAC, and has been featured on America's Best Dance Crew and Showtime at the Apollo. Jerryl's teaching style revolves around connecting music to emotions and ensuring a fun and enriching experience for his students. Expect to leave his classes with confidence, a deeper understanding of music, and eagerness for the next session.

Johsian Martinez

InSpira EXP Hip Hop InStructor

Johsian Martinez is an emerging choreographer and performer in the tristate area specializing in Hip Hop, Modern, Contemporary, and Latin Dances. He holds a Masters in Dance Education and BFA in Dance Performance both from Rutgers University. Currently, Johsian serves as the Dance Teacher at Rutgers Preparatory School in Somerset, NJ. In addition, he leads the Hip Hop portion of the Rutgers Dance auditions and teaches dance at Inspira, Woodbridge School of Dance, and NYOD. He choreographed Addams Family and Matilda musicals at Rutgers Preparatory School and Woodbridge High School.

Karen Callaway Williams

InSpira EXP & Centric Tap InStructor

Karen Callaway Williams is celebrated as the first African-American female tap dancer and dance captain in RIVERDANCE - THE SHOW and RIVERDANCE - ON BROADWAY. She has performed and taught extensively worldwide, earning numerous accolades for her contributions to tap dance. Karen is also an accomplished author and dedicated educator.

Karen Miles

InSpira Centric African Dance InStructor

Born and raised in Jersey City, NJ, Mrs. Karen is a passionate dancer with a career spanning over four decades. She started teaching African dance to the Girl Scouts of America in her community and founded the Zawadi School of African Dance, which has thrived for over 27 years. Karen has been a principal dancer with esteemed companies like Maimouna Keita School of African Dance and Umoja Dance Company. She has performed throughout the United States and internationally, including St. Croix and Australia. Karen has also collaborated with organizations like the Brooklyn Academy of Music and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. Her mission is to enrich the community through traditional African dance, song, and history while nurturing cultural awareness and respect among youth. She honors the legacy of our ancestors in all her endeavors.

Kiana Smith

Admin Team Member & Web Designer

Kiana Smith is a dynamic individual currently interning at ATOP Meaningful World, an NGO. She holds an intern position at the UN, spending significant time each week on this role. Additionally, she contributes to the organization's social media outreach and assists with newsletter coordination. Kiana is part of the InSpira Administrative Staff, having been involved with the studio since its inception in 2002. She is an alumna of Wilbraham and Monson Academy and Dickinson College, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and International Relations. Kiana's studies took her to Spain, where she researched the influence of black bodies in Spanish culture. She gained experience in marketing through internships in New Jersey and New York City. Currently pursuing a Master's Degree in diplomacy and international relations at Seton Hall University, Kiana also runs her own web design company, having created websites for various organizations and eCommerce stores.

Kristine Smith

CEO/Artistic Director & Little InSpirations Ballet, Tap, and Jazz InStructor

Kristine, the founder of InSpira, started with a small group of 14 kids in 2002 and has grown the studio to nearly 300 students and a team of 16 faculty members. She has a lifelong passion for dance and holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mass Media Arts and a Master of Science Degree in Sports Administration. Kristine is a recognized entrepreneur, winning competitions and completing prestigious programs. She authored a children's coloring book, supporting dance scholarships at InSpira. In 2019, she opened a second location in Newark. Kristine is dedicated to community service, scholarship programs, and partnerships with organizations like Dance New Jersey. She has received various awards and is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Kristine is married to Leon Smith and is the proud mother of twin daughters.

Nancy Faison

Admin Team Member

Nancy is a dedicated member of the InSpira Administrative Team, joining in 2006. She shares the vision of building students' confidence and helping them realize their potential both in dance and in life. With a background in administrative and project management roles, Nancy effectively manages day-to-day interactions with InSpira families, students, and instructors. She is also actively involved in her church, serving as Church Administrator and Secretary of the Executive Board, among other responsibilities. Nancy's diverse experience and caring nature make her an invaluable asset to the InSpira community.

Quinique Bennett

Little InSpirations & InSpira EXP Hip Hop InStructor

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Victor Marshall

InSpira Centric African Dance Drummer

Victor Marshall, founder and director of Marshall Hand & Drum Ensemble, is a highly skilled percussionist specializing in African Diaspora drumming. With a background in West African and Afro Cuban drumming, he has studied under renowned master percussionists and performed with notable artists. Victor has taught West African drumming at various educational institutions and conducted workshops across New York and New Jersey. He is also an accomplished solo percussionist and serves as the musical director of Iwa L'ewa Heritage Dance Ensemble. Victor's passion for drumming and dedication to sharing his knowledge make him a valued performer, teacher, and lecturer.