Leandra Avuri-Williams is currently in her second year of study at NAISDA, undertaking a Certificate IV in Dance Practice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. She was born and raised on Gumbaynggirr Country in Coffs Harbour on the Mid North Coast. Leandra comes from a proud and diverse cultural background, her mother is Wakka Wakka and Italian, and her father is Wiradjuri and Ngambri, which deeply informs her identity as both a person and an artist.
Her dance journey began at a young age, training for 15 years at Julie Ross Dance Studio where she developed a strong foundation in ballet and performance while participating in company workshops. This early training instilled discipline, resilience, and a deep love for storytelling through movement.
In 2019, Leandra joined the Mimmi Gunji Wajair Cultural Group in Coffs Harbour, where she further connected to her culture through workshops and CID performances. These experiences strengthened her relationship to Country and Culture, shaping her desire to use dance as a form of cultural expression, healing, and connection.
In 2023, Leandra was selected to be part of Bangarra Dance Theatre’s Rekindling Youth Program, a pivotal moment in her career. Performing at Qudos Bank Arena for the Schools Spectacular inspired her envision a future where she could stand on major stages while honouring her culture and community.
Leandra draws her greatest inspiration from her family, whose unwavering support has encouraged her to pursue dance wholeheartedly. Their belief in her has given her the confidence to follow her passion and remain grounded in who she is. Through dance, Leandra aims to continue growing as an artist, share stories that matter, and inspire future generations of First Nation Dancers to embrace their identity and creative voice.