Georgia Woman With Down Syndrome Finds Calling As Zumba Instructor

Elisha McKenzie has the perfect steps for inspiring her community. 

The 21-year-old first started participating in Zumba at GiGi’s Playhouse Atlanta in Roswell five years ago. McKenzie, who has a Down syndrome diagnosis, enjoyed the dance workout classes so much that she decided to become a Zumba instructor. With the support of her family, she achieved her instructor certification in 2023.

“I fell in love with Zumba when I was 16 years old,” McKenzie told Atlanta News First. “This was my passion… to do Zumba.”

She’s using Latin-inspired moves and her infectious positivity to inspire people of all abilities to have fun and stay healthy through dance. It also makes her happy.

“I know my routine and I can get them to dance and stay active and stay fit,” McKenzie said.

And it’s working. 

Shortly after achieving her Zumba instructor certification, McKenzie began teaching classes, including some at GiGi’s Playhouse. 

“After just one class, she was so popular, we had to move the program out to our main space because she outgrew our gym space immediately!” Jennifer Rackley, the Operations Manager for GiGi’s Playhouse Atlanta, told Southern Living.

McKenzie practices her routines every day. 

“It’s part of her makeup. It’s who she was meant to be,” her mom Jacqueline said to Atlanta News First.

Gigi’s Playhouse is a 501c3 nonprofit created to support people diagnosed with Down syndrome and their families. They provide free educational, and career-training programs for individuals of all ages at more than 50 locations across the U.S.

For more information visit gigisplayhouse.org.