Leila Elizabeth became a student of Dean and Leela in 2018 after nearly 15 years of intensive percussion and dance studies. She has focused almost exclusively on the traditional and modern music and dances of West Africa and the Diaspora, focusing on the arts of several different ethnic groups within Mali, Guinea, and Senegal.

Leila's study of music and percussion dates back to childhood and is recognized both in the Bay Area and abroad for her performances and workshops as a drummer in various musical ensembles. Her dedication to her practice at Santa Cruz Movement over the years has not only enhanced her ability to perform better as a dancer and musician, but has also helped facilitate dramatically improved physical and mental health, a deepened sense of community and most humbly, the opportunity to elevate to a teaching position where she is  able to passionately share the beauty and magic of a movement practice with others in a kind, supportive, and empathetic way.