Michelle Makela

Michelle Makela

Michelle “Mimi” Makela's passion for dance began at a young age in Loomis, a small town near Sacramento, CA. Growing up on acres of land, she developed a deep appreciation for nature and strong family values, which continue to influence her life and career. From an early age, Michelle’s love for dance was evident as she would choreograph performances for family gatherings and train rigorously in various dance styles including Hip Hop, Tap, Jazz, and Modern.

Her dedication to dance led her to pursue a professional career, training tirelessly and eventually joining the NBA Sacramento Kings Dance Team, where she had her first taste of professional dance life.

Michelle’s talent and determination took her to Los Angeles, where she signed with The Movement Talent Agency. Over a decade-long career, she danced around the world, performing with renowned artists and at high-profile events including the Grammys 2019, World of Dance, and Dawn Richard's European tour. Her versatility as a dancer—able to move seamlessly from commercial to edgy, from modern to urban—has set her apart in the industry. Additionally, Michelle’s mixed-race background and ethnically ambiguous appearance have allowed her to play a wide range of roles in music videos, TV shows, and movies.

While Michelle loves all dance styles, her favorites are Hip Hop, Tap, and Latin fusion. At this stage in her career, she has transitioned into choreography, using her extensive experience to mentor and guide the next generation of dancers. She has also shared her creative talents as a professional makeup artist, adding another layer to her multifaceted career in the entertainment industry.

Currently, Michelle is the Hip Hop Director at Divergence Dance Conservatory, where she continues to inspire and lead students with the same passion that has driven her throughout her career. She defines success as being a good person every day, finding joy in what she loves, and achieving her personal goals.