With over 25 years of experience teaching movement and healing practices to children and adults — from NYC classrooms to communities in Colombia and Ethiopia — Calia brings a trauma-informed, justice-rooted approach to everything she does. Her DEIA work is grounded in the intersection of social justice and embodied practice, including yoga, music, and community facilitation.

At NDI, Calia co-wrote the organization’s equity statement, leads staff workshops on racial equity and gender inclusion, facilitates affinity spaces, and co-chairs the Board’s DEIA Committee. She has presented nationally at Race Forward, Gender Spectrum, and the National Dance Educators Organization, among others. Through her work, she creates spaces for belonging, transformation, and collective growth.