Instructors

Sierra Padilla

Co-Owner, Choreographer, Teacher, & Pilates Instructor

Sierra Padilla’s dance training started at the age of 4 and danced competitively for 8 years. Her journey becoming an instructor started after high school where she and Braya taught alongside one another. Sierra’s passion for teaching led her to the dream of creating a dance studio. She’s eager to open the doors to Nova Dance Co and welcome all dancers to their home; where they will bring art alive.

Braya Belay

Co-Owner, Choreographer, & Teacher

Braya Belay has been training and performing in dance since she was 6 years old. Once she got to high school her love for choreographing and teaching began. Her and Sierra became fast friends and their shared dream of owning their own dance studio began to materialize into reality. As a mother herself, she understands how to encourage and teach children and her love for children will certainly show through at Nova Dance Co.

Brooklyn Rice

Teacher: Jazz tech, Ballet, Contemp/Lyrical, etc.

From the age of 4, Brooklyn Rice has been a dance prodigy, training in Paula Morgan’s technique—a celebrated method renowned for its emphasis on precision and artistry. Her competitive dance career is marked by numerous titles, scholarships, and technique awards. She also has worked with various famous dancers. Beyond the dance floor, Brooklyn has modeled for Discount Dance. With her expanding achievements, Brooklyn Rice is emerging as a significant rising star in the dance world.

Maliyah Miller

Teacher: Hip-hop and Acro

Maliyah Miller’s dance journey began in high school; throughout that experience she excelled in hip hop. In high school Maliyah was selected for a competition team and participated in competitions like Vibe Jrs, Bridge and more. She is currently a college student at UC Irvine where she participates in URMO, an exhibition dance team, as well as a team called Project Renegade. Maliyah has a 7 year competitive gymnastics background. Since then she has been using her knowledge to teach students in dance acrobatics.