FREE UP Caribbean Movement was created in 2014. 

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Chanel naturally found her love for dance by way of her Guyanese heritage, and early exposure to cultural arts and music. She is Brooklyn born and Florida grown. 

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During her earlier years, Chanel directed and choreographed routines for her high school and college Caribbean dance groups, performed in the choir and acted in school plays. Additionally, she worked as a character performer for Sesame Street, Disney World and Disney Cruise Line. Chanel served as a student leader for six years in the Caribbean Cultural Exchange organization at USF Tampa. She also volunteered as a math tutor for three years and served as an executive board member for four years with the Caribbean Community Association in Tampa, FL.

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Chanel completed the SHAPE UP NYC training course in 2018, and instructed classes in parks, hospitals and recreation centers.

Chanel currently instructs online classes for women in the community, hosts in-person events, collaborates with individuals and other entities, and provides choreography and performance services to local artists. 

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Chanel is a licensed master social worker, trained group fitness instructor and talented artist. She is extremely passionate about working with children and their families in the community. Her professional experiences include family counseling, elementary/middle school guidance, infant and early childhood mental health, elementary education, health education and mental health training. 

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"I've finally found a creative way to merge my Caribbean culture, my passion for helping others, my love for the arts and this energy that cannot be contained."  

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