Kati Hernández

Born and raised in Cuba, Kati Hernández was immersed in the captivating beats of the drum and the vibrant world of Afro-Cuban dance from a young age. Her deep understanding of dance and choreography unveils a captivating and adaptable style, establishing her as a revered artist both nationally and internationally. Her diverse dance education encompassed Afro-Cuban and international folklore, Cuban popular dances, contemporary, ballet, choreography, composition, and staging, shaping her into the dynamic choreographer, educator, and performer she is today. Embarking on her international journey early on, Kati has graced stages across Europe, the Caribbean, and the Americas, collaborating with renowned Cuban productions, musicians, and visual artists.
 

In her current hometown of Los Angeles, Kati Hernandez is a prominent figure in the thriving dance community. Recognized with the prestigious Community Leader of Excellence 2023 award, she is celebrated for her artistry, dedication, and leadership. At the heart of Kati's work is a deep connection to her Afro-Cuban heritage, which she shares with passion. Through her innovative and acclaimed program, Oricha Dance Therapy, she weaves together the rich tapestry of Afro-Cuban dance diaspora, using movement and rhythm as a language of expression, empowerment and healing. As the founder of a pioneering Cuban online dance and music program, she is on a mission to preserve and showcase Cuban culture on a global scale, fostering vibrant cross-cultural connections. Additionally, Kati serves as the artistic director of Kimbambula Cuban Dance and Music Ensemble and is the co-founder of Kimbambula Productions, both dedicated to promoting Cuban culture in Los Angeles through events like the annual Anual Día de Changó Celebration and "Essence of Cuba," a paramount reunion of Afro-Cuban masters from Cuba in LA. “Kati’s Cuban Ganga” Dance Intensive and “The Cuban Social” events.

Not only a prominent figure on stage, Kati Hernandez also leaves a lasting impact as an esteemed educator, conducting workshops, lectures, and performances at renowned institutions and events across the nation. Her influence reaches far and wide, from prestigious venues like Yale University, Jacob's Pillow, Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Music Center Grand Park, and The Getty Museum, to cultural showcases at MOLAA (Museum of Latin American Art), Cal Arts, UC Irvine, Pomona College, and many Cuban dance congresses in the USA. In these spaces, Kati's creative brilliance and dedication to cultural exchange shine brightly.
 

Renowned as a choreographer and cultural advisor, Hernandez has forged collaborations with leading artists, pioneering projects, and esteemed institutions, elevating Afro-Cuban dance and music to unprecedented levels of expression and innovation. Her exceptional versatility shines through in a diverse array of ventures, including music videos, theater productions, commercials in both Spanish and English mass media, film productions, and public campaigns, where she consistently pushes boundaries and challenges stereotypes.

With a spirit that transcends borders and a talent that knows no limits, Kati Hernández stands as a true ambassador of Cuban culture, inspiring global audiences to celebrate diversity through the universal language of rhythm and movement.