Born and raised in Portales, New Mexico, Yolanda (Yoli) has always been captivated by the rhythm and art of movement. From a young age, her fascination with dance began to shape her path, eventually leading her to the transformative world of belly dance in 1999. That first class ignited a passion that would grow into a lifelong journey of exploration and artistry.
Yolanda's dedication to her craft quickly deepened. She joined the Natarajas, an acclaimed dance troupe and given the dance name Yogini Yoli. She expanded her horizons by attending her first professional workshop in Santa Fe. Hosted by Pomegranate Studios, the workshop featured the legendary Carolena Nericcio, founder of American Tribal Style® Belly Dance. This experience cemented Yogini Yoli’s commitment to the art form and inspired her to share her knowledge with others.
In 2004, Yoli began teaching belly dance classes at Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU). Her influence blossomed further as the advisor and director of Fusion Funk Collective from 2008 to 2014, the largest student organization on campus. Fusion Funk Collective brought together a vibrant community of belly dancers, fire dancers, artists, and drummers, creating a unique platform for artistic expression. During this time, Yogini Yoli’s collaborated with performers from Roswell, NM, and took part in Leyla Najma’s professional production of *Cleopatra*.
Today, Yogini Yoli continues to share her love for dance as the director of Fusion World Dance Company and The Hipslingers. Her groups are renowned for their dynamic performances at local events, including the annual Ethnic Fair and Clovis Comic Con. A lifelong learner, Yoli remains deeply inspired by the dances of the Romani Trail and has expanded her repertoire to include East Indian and Rajasthani Folk Dance, Tribal and Cabaret Belly Dance, and Spanish Folk Dance. Her experiences at the Middle Eastern Music and Dance Camp, where she earned scholarships in 2008 and 2009, enriched her understanding of these diverse traditions.
Ygini Yoli’s most cherished memories include performing at Amaya’s Oriental Potpourri and participating in Farfesha’s *East Meets West* productions. She also had the privilege of hosting the late Bollywood superstar Queen Harish in 2008 and 2009, forming a close friendship with the renowned artist who became a mentor and profound inspiration.
In 2024, Fusion World Dance brought the world to New Mexico by hosting the Rajasthani Caravan featuring the Ashraf Khan Group and Katrina Ji at ENMU, a testament to her commitment to cultural exchange and artistic celebration. She was invited to judge the world dance category for the Colorado State Dance Championship. As a breast cancer survivor, Yogini Yoli embodies resilience and grace, channeling her life experiences into her art and teaching. She is deeply honored to be a part of the New Mexico Belly Dance Association, where she continues to inspire others through movement, culture, and community.