Rising Stars: Meet Shakinah Shockley of Atlanta

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shakinah Shockley.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Growing up, I was surrounded by music. My dad, Ohene Savant, is a musical genius, and watching him create alongside my mom made creativity feel like second nature.

Everything shifted when my mom noticed how hooked I was on the dance competition show Born to Dance, hosted by celebrity choreographer Laurianne Gibson. That sparked something real. I joined a small competition team called Dance Fever in Dallas, Georgia, just testing the waters—but it didn’t stay small for long. During one competition, I was randomly pulled from my trio and awarded a scholarship. That moment changed everything.

My mom pushed me to train seriously, taking me to studios like Dance 411, Groove2Musik Studios. It wasn’t easy—there were moments I wanted to quit—but I stayed consistent and trusted the process.

Eventually, that work paid off. I got signed with 411 South, started booking jobs, and began building my name in the entertainment industry. What started as a kid watching dance on TV turned into a real career—one built on passion, persistence, and believing in something bigger than where I started.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It wasn’t an easy journey. I was in high school trying to balance my schoolwork with my passion for dance—because dance is truly my life. There were nights I’d come home late from training, only to wake up early the next morning for school and do it all over again.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I consider myself an all-around creative, with a strong foundation as a dancer and choreographer. I specialize in versatility—I’ve trained in multiple styles and environments, which allows me to adapt, create, and perform across different spaces in the entertainment industry.

What I’m most proud of is building my career through relationships and self-belief, especially during times when I didn’t have an agent. I created my own opportunities, connected with the right people, and earned my bookings through consistency and trust in my talent. I truly believe talent will never be denied, and I want other creatives to understand that you can create your own lane when you believe in yourself.

What sets me apart is my versatility and my training. I’ve trained all over Atlanta under mentors like Natasha Harris, Carl Harris, Sakinah Le’Stage, Kiki Ely, DRay, Keith Andre, and Aaron Drew, just to name a few. Each of them has played a role in shaping me into a well-rounded and undeniable creative.

Any big plans?
My plans for the future go far beyond just dance. I’m building my company, The Pink Aura, which was born during a time when I was rediscovering myself after giving birth to my son, Ezra. That season of my life inspired everything behind the brand.

I chose the name “Pink Aura” because of the symbolism of flamingos—after giving birth, they temporarily lose their pink color, and as they regain their strength, their color returns. That really resonated with me. It represents growth, healing, and finding your way back to yourself.

Through The Pink Aura, I want every person who steps into my classes or private sessions to feel like they’re evolving—not just as dancers, but as individuals. It’s about building confidence, reconnecting with yourself, and leaving stronger than when you walked in.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shadeniecee