Ashley Kumar is the Founding Artistic Director of SAAM & has been learning and performing East Indian Dance for 27 years. She is trained in Kathak, Bollywood, Bhangra, Gidda, Hip Hop Fusion, and other Indian Folk dance styles. She is the recipient of Edmonton's Top 40 Under 40 and recognized for her work with youth in the field of performing arts. As a certified Life Coach she uses specific techniques to empower her students; specifically challenging them in the areas of positive self-talk, power-shifting the mindset, and self-awareness.

She is a DANCE COACH and wants students to see that they have the power to overcome any of their self-perceived obstacles. She has choreographed guest performances for Bollywood Stage shows including Heart Throbs in 2002, Miss Diwali Canada Pageant in 2003, and has performed on stage with actress Karisma Kapoor in Toronto in 2003. She also was a Choreographer for the short film Breakout of the Masala Kid that was shot in 2008 in Edmonton. She is a trained Actor who received training in Mumbai with special acting classes from veteran actor Mr. Anupam Kher. Ashley loves to create unique and edgy dance pieces that inspire and stir emotions within the audience and she wants to bring anyone open to this journey along for the ride!