HER BIO
Kayla Marie Jackson is a Milwaukee, Wisconsin native who has always harbored a deep passion for the arts. Since early childhood, she has trained in various dance genres under premier facilities, including the Milwaukee Ballet School and the Debbie Allen Dance Academy. Her dedication to her craft has shaped her into a versatile and accomplished artist, known for her exceptional talent and innovative vision.
Kayla earned her B.A. in Economics with a concentration in Marketing from Spelman College, where her leadership and artistic abilities shone brightly. At Spelman, she was a member and captain of the Morehouse College Dance Team, affectionately known as "Mahogany N Motion," and actively participated in organizations such as the NAACP and the Miss Kappa Alpha Psi Morehouse College, Scholarship Pageant earning the winning title of Miss Kappa Alpha Psi, Morehouse College Pi Chapter. She also served as the lead choreographer for the Miss Spelman Pageant. Currently, Kayla is furthering her education by pursuing her MBA, demonstrating her commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth.
After graduation, Kayla chose a traditional career path and spent five years working in tech as a Marketing Consultant. However, her love for dance remained unwavering. Determined to reconnect with her passion, she auditioned for the Atlanta Hawks Dancers and was selected to join the NBA's Atlanta Hawks entertainment teams. During her five-year tenure with the Hawks, Kayla served as both a Captain and choreographer for the Atlanta Hawks Dancers and other specialty performance squads.
In 2018, Kayla embraced her dream of becoming a touring performer when she joined the legendary '90s R&B sensation GUY, featuring Teddy Riley, Aaron Hall, and Damion Hall. This pivotal opportunity marked her transition to a full-time career in the performing arts, leaving behind her tech job to pursue her lifelong dream.
Since then, Kayla has performed with some of the world’s most iconic artists, including Aretha Franklin, CeeLo Green, John Legend, Jack Harlow, Latto, H.E.R., Ciara, Ella Mai, Victoria Monet, and Saweetie, for whom she serves as Dance Captain. Her performances have graced prestigious stages, award shows, and TV screens, including the MTV EMAs, BET Awards, BET Hip Hop Awards, Billboard Awards, and appearances on CW’s Legacies, BET’s Boomerang, and STARZ’s Step Up Series, among others.
Kayla credits her success to her faith in God, the unwavering support of her community, and her principles of grit, dedication, discipline, and determination. She believes every barrier she breaks paves the way for future generations to achieve their dreams.
In addition to her work in the arts, Kayla is a dedicated community leader and an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated through the Tau Tau Omega Chapter. Initiated in 2015 in the Epsilon Kappa Omega Chapter, she has used her expertise in performing arts to support the Sorority's initiatives and targets. Kayla remains deeply connected to her roots at Spelman College, where she volunteered her time with Mahogany N Motion and later joined the coaching staff as an assistant coach for five years. Her choreography and creative direction for the team’s 2020 basketball performances further solidified her legacy and impact.
After relocating to Los Angeles, Kayla continued to uplift her community through the performing arts and became the Creative Director and Head Coach of UCLA’s newest dance organization, The Elegant Bruinettes. This trailblazing team proudly showcases the rich tradition of HBCU Danceline style—a culture that Kayla holds near and dear to her heart as a product of HBCU excellence and the marching band legacy she embraced with Mahogany N Motion. Under her leadership, The Elegant Bruinettes perform alongside the UCLA Band during football and basketball seasons, bringing the vibrancy, precision, and artistry of HBCU dance culture to a broader stage.
Kayla Marie Jackson is a true renaissance woman, continuously elevating herself, her peers, and her community through her multifaceted talents and unwavering dedication. With an impressive legacy already taking shape, her journey is far from over—it is only just beginning.
To Kayla, an icon is someone who is not only highly skilled but also legendary and impactful—an individual whose influence transcends generations. She aspires to embody this definition by achieving unparalleled mastery in her craft and leaving a lasting legacy through both her professional accomplishments and philanthropic endeavors.
Kayla’s journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and purpose. She attributes her success to her faith in God, the support of her family and community, and the principles of grit, discipline, and determination. In her free time, she enjoys hiking with her dog, Princeton, relaxing at the beach, or taking classes at local dance studios to refine her craft.
Kayla continues to inspire those around her to dream boldly, aim high, and work tirelessly to achieve their goals. For Kayla Marie Jackson, the best is yet to come.
