Period Poverty Pandemic

Imani Gaudin, a distinguished artist and visionary leader, stands out as the Artistic Director, Founder and President of Gaudanse Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering creativity and access in the dance and arts community. Her remarkable journey began at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA), where she earned a Certificate of Artistry in Dance, followed by an honors degree from the Conservatory of Dance at Purchase College, SUNY. Imani further enriched her expertise with studies at the Amsterdam University of the Arts, Academie Voor Theater en Dans. Her exceptional training continued at prestigious institutions such as The Juilliard School, The Ailey School, Dance Theater of Harlem, b12, and Orsolina28. In March 2024, she was honored as a resident artist at Kaatsbaan Cultural Park and is recognized as a Baryshnikov Arts Center and Pepatian Dancing Futures 2024 AIR. These experiences highlight her deep commitment to the craft and her ability to innovate within the dance world. As the Artistic Director of Gaudanse Inc., Imani has successfully created a dynamic platform for artists, emphasizing education and collaborative opportunities. Her leadership extends to her role as an independent dance teacher and as an educator for Battery Dance in the New York school system. Imani's tenure as Purchase Dance class President and her receipt of multiple accolades, including the National Performance Network – Take Notice Fund Award and the Purchase College Foundation Bert Terborgh Dance Award, attest to her leadership and excellence in the field. Imani's commitment to societal impact is evident in her current project, a digital and visual performing arts installation commissioned in collaboration with the River Road African American Museum. This work commemorates the GU272, a significant historical event, and reflects her dedication to integrating art with social justice. Additionally, through Gaudanse Inc., Imani is tackling Period Poverty by spearheading a campaign to raise awareness and provide sanitary products to those in need. Her entrepreneurial spirit also shines in her property investment ventures, where she focuses on developing affordable housing for artists. Imani Gaudin's blend of artistic excellence, leadership, and social advocacy defines her as a trailblazer in the dance community and a champion for transformative change through the arts.