Introducing Zekiah Smith
- Basin Arts
- Jul 16
- 2 min read
Zekiah Smith is a community dancer born and raised in Lafayette, Louisiana. Zekiah started his dance journey at F.I.R.E Expression Dance Conservatory at the age of 17 (2014) under the ownership of Leigha Porter. Zekiah is trained in many dance genres, including Modern, Jazz, Contemporary, Ballet, and, more recently, Heels. His most recent performance was “Preservation” 2024, artistically directed by Leigha Porter. He has also made several appearances in the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Dance productions, such as State of La Danse and Evening of Dance, since 2023. Zekiah also performed at the 2019 HumAwards showcase in Houston, Texas, which featured many Pakistani celebrities. Zekiah's dream is to one day perform with a professional dance company! He also continues to perform in his community every chance he gets.
Who makes up your art circle?
People who share the same passion as me when it comes to the arts. Whether it’s singing, dancing, or acting. It all coexists with one another in ways that bring a positive light into the world. My family, friends, and mentors are my biggest supporters. Also, people that I worked with in the past see the potential in me that I sometimes don’t see within myself. They are my art circle that I hold dear to me. Without them, I don’t know how I would’ve managed all these years.
How do you expand your art circle?
I expand my art circle by performing in numerous productions within my community. I also take dance classes whenever I can. Every year I make so many connections, which then leads me to another great opportunity.
What value do you see in having a creative community?
The value that I see in having a creative community is that everyone plays an important role. In life, everyone has both strengths and weaknesses that make them unique in their own special way! Everyone deserves a chance to bring out their full potential and make something so beautiful! That is vital and needs to be shared often within this creative community.
How does your artistic approach contribute to your community?
I would say my work ethic and dedication to the arts are my biggest contributions to the community. I’m always a student who’s constantly learning from my peers. Every performance throughout the years has shaped me into the artist that I am today! I can definitely say that I’ve grown and learned in so many different spaces.
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