Nehjma has been in love with dancing ever since she can remember, formally
since the age of 7, taking Tap, Jazz, Ballet, and Figure Skating. She also has more
recent dance experiences in Hip Hop, Funk, African, Flamenco, Bollywood, Yoga,
Tai Chi & even Hula Hooping.
It was in her late teens, when she happend upon the Beautiful Artform of Bellydancing and knew then that she had found her calling. In 1995-1999 she traveled and lived in Europe, Egypt, the Middle East, & Central America, immersing herself in different cultures, & learning much of this captivating dance. In the new Millennium she returned home to Calgary, Ab, and founded Belly Elements Dance Co. where she teaches beginner to advanced levels, is the artistic director and choreographer for both Solo and Group Performances.
She has trained with some of Calgary's finest teachers: Aziza Habib, Chereefa,
Dahlia, & Jamilee Abir. She has taken many workshops with fantastic Bellydancers from around the World, including: Denise Enan (Egypt), Hadia (Montreal,Que),Venus
(Vancouver, BC), Rhea (Greece), Suzy (Airdrie, AB), Aschera Rose (Regina, Sask.), Cassandra (USA), Tito Seif, Nourhan & Yousry Sharif (NYC) Yasmina Ramzy (Toronto, ONT) and more!
In 2001 Nehjma launched the Bellydance program at Mount Royal College and held residency for 4 years, as well as at Westside Recreation where she taught for 2 years.
Also since 2001, she is honored to have taught at, & have a loyal following at
Decidedly Jazz Danceworks and the Bow Valley Club.
She has performed both as a solo artist and w/ Belly Elements Dance Troupe at many
events & festivals. Calgary performances include: the Greek Festival, the Lilac Festival, Marda Gras, HipFest, Sun&Salsa, the Hyatt Hotel, the Palliser Hotel, Jack Singer Concert Hall, "If the Stars Could Bellydance", Artists Elite -"Calgary's Got Talent", ongoing student shows & "Haflas" (means "Parties"- in Arabic) has made many restaurant appearances, as well as spots on A-Channel & City TV.
Now 16 years later, Nehjma is still a dedicated dancer & supporter of Calgary's
Bellydance Community! A busy mother of two amazing children, she incorporates
Bellydancing into her daily life, Everyday! (yes, you can do shoulder shimmies while you do dishes, lol)
Nehjma's Classes fill quickly, & her Workshops are always anticipated & well-received,
Give one a try!
A personal goal for Nehjma is to grow as a dancer & enhance her teaching skills. One way she does this is by handing out evaluations. Here's what people have been saying:
..."More than exceeded my expectations!"
..."The teacher's methods were excellent! Great attitude, fun, patient
& great music!"
..."Fantastic energy! Fits all levels!"
..."I have more body awareness and appreciation of the dance!"
..."Lots of Fun!"
..."I hope we can have this class again!"