Karleigh Coles

CEO

Karleigh, the visionary founder and director of Coles Shining Stars Dance Studio, has been enamored with the art of dance since she took her first steps at the tender age of three. With an impressive 13 years of diverse dance training and experience, her repertoire spans a wide array of genres, including the expressive movements of liturgical dance, the energetic rhythms of hip-hop, and much more. Throughout her dance journey, Karleigh has showcased her talent as a choreographer, creating captivating routines for various churches and community youth groups, where she has inspired countless young dancers.

Deeply passionate about empowering children, Karleigh firmly believes that each child possesses a unique brilliance—like a shining star waiting to be discovered. She recognizes that engaging children in the arts at an early age can have a profoundly positive impact on their overall development. Through the medium of dance, children not only unleash their creativity but also cultivate essential cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving and critical thinking. Furthermore, participating in dance helps enhance their emotional intelligence, allowing them to express their feelings and connect with others in meaningful ways. In her studio, Karleigh fosters an environment where every child is encouraged to shine and flourish on their artistic journey.

Qiara Barnett

Assistant Director

Qiara hails from the vibrant city of Columbus, Ohio, where her passion for dance ignited nine years ago. Currently, she is embarking on her first year at Columbus State Community College, where she’s immersing herself in a two-year program filled with opportunities for growth and exploration before making her way to Kent State University to pursue her dream of a degree in dentistry. 

In the world of dance, Qiara thrives in the energetic realms of hip-hop and is deeply engaged in dance ministry, combining her love for movement with her desire to inspire others. She is thrilled to join the Coles Shining Stars Dance Family, where she eagerly anticipates sharing her enthusiasm for both dancing and teaching in Combo 2, hoping to ignite the same passion in her students that has fueled her own journey.