Nicole Oxendine is the founder and artistic director of Empower Dance Studio, established in 2015. With a lifelong passion for dance, Nicole envisioned a space where individuals could explore their potential while embracing their natural beauty. Her commitment to creating a safe, inclusive environment is rooted in her background in dance movement therapy and her experience teaching in Durham’s public schools. Nicole observed a need for comprehensive dance education and saw firsthand how students’ self-confidence eroded over time. This inspired her to develop Empower Dance Studio into a nurturing ground for self-expression and growth. Under her leadership, the studio has grown into a cornerstone of the arts community in Durham and beyond. Nicole’s choreography and artistic vision are central to the studio’s success, reflecting her dedication to celebrating each dancer’s unique talents. Empower’s Academy dancers train at prestigious institutions, embodying Nicole’s commitment to excellence and inclusivity.