Invite them to find their own light.
Yholima Vargas-Pedroza is a leader in cultural arts and community connection. Originally from the Caribbean coast and raised in Colombia, she moved to Canada for college and later to Durham, North Carolina, transitions she describes as “jumping from one fast-moving train to another.” The experience reshaped how she understood her identity and the way others perceived her country.
Over time, Yholima learned to fully embrace her roots, expressing her pride. “Today, more than ever, I celebrate where I come from,” she says. She was drawn back to dance, a big part of her upbringing in Colombia, which became a source of confidence and grounding.
Since immigrating, Yholima has founded and co-founded several dance academies in the United States and Canada, creating spaces that uplift culture and community. One of her most meaningful moments came during the Esperanza Festival, where she watched children in her troupe perform live for the first time, a reminder of the impact that creative expression can have on families.
For Yholima, authenticity and connection are at the heart of her work. She remains committed to supporting others through dance, storytelling, and cultural celebration, continuing the journey that began with a young girl stepping into a new world more than twenty years ago.