Ja’nese Brooks-Galathe is a New Orleans based multidisciplinary artist and a native of Lafayette, Louisiana. In the last 18 years, she has developed a unique and effective instruction style, teaching and performing a variety of dances of the African Diaspora. She goes beyond technique to share a deep understanding of music, movement, and culture with students and dancers at all levels of experience. Ja’nese is committed to encouraging dialogue among cultural communities through dance, with students, dancers, and non-dancers. Outside of teaching, she is also the co-founder of AYA Designs Global, LLC, a fashion and costume design company. AYA has designed various award-winning costumes for theater companies, TV, and film productions.

Ja’nese, whom we lovingly call Mamma Jay, has worked with Young Audiences of Louisiana since 2004, as a Teaching Artist and Arts Integration Specialist. Presently she holds the position of Professional Development Coordinator as well as a YA National Credentialed Teaching Artist. Having taught across the state of Louisiana, she has honed her practice of arts integration with students and now works to make sure this practice continues through the professional development of teachers and teaching artists. The job that is the most rewarding for Ja’nese is being the mother of three beautiful daughters.