Nelly Quijano
What is your current or recent profession?
I am a Bilingual Teacher (Online) and a Teaching Artist Assistant.
Where is the most exciting place you've traveled?
The most exciting place where I have traveled is Ciudad Perdida "Lost City" in Santa Marta-Colombia, it was such a meaningful experience. It’s one of the oldest Indigenous cities in the Americas, and local communities still see it as a sacred place. The trek is challenging but beautiful. You walk through the jungle, learn about the Tairona culture, and really feel the connection between nature, history, and the people who protect the site. For me, it wasn’t just a trip; it was a reminder of how deep Colombia’s heritage runs and how important it is to respect and support Indigenous communities and their land.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was a child, I used to say that when I grew up I would be an Army Soldier, an Air Force Pilot, an Archeologist, a Paleontologist, a Marine Biologist, a Singer and a Dancer.
What do the arts bring to your life?
The arts have truly given me life. Music and dance have been a part of me since I was born, and when I faced serious health challenges with my brain and heart, they became my therapy through CTB, helping me heal, find joy, and reconnect with myself and the world around me.
Why Celebrate the Beat?
Celebrate the Beat has been a true blessing for me and my family. It came into our lives just when I thought there weren’t opportunities for me to engage in something meaningful, especially after returning to the U.S. and changing my visa status. CTB has given me a space to connect with the arts, with children, and with a supportive community; something I deeply needed and will always be grateful for.
