About Fernanda
I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in International Business from UTE University in Ecuador, where I performed with the Falcons Dance Academy. After moving to the United States, I dedicated myself to expanding my dance education, training with respected Bay Area instructors through both private and group programs for more than a decade.
Throughout my career, I have trained and performed with renowned dance companies, including Yamulee Ladies SF, The Latin Symbolics, Island Touch, and Muevete World Team by Michelle Morales, among others. These experiences have allowed me to develop a diverse background in Latin dance styles while deepening my passion for performance, instruction, and community building.
In 2014, I co-founded Fit2Day, a dance and fitness studio in San Rafael, creating opportunities for people to improve their health, confidence, and connection through movement.
In 2018, I founded Cedeno Dance Company with a vision of creating opportunities for dancers to train, perform, and grow in a supportive and inspiring environment. Through multiple dance teams and performance programs, I have worked with dancers of all levels and backgrounds, helping them build technique, confidence, and a strong sense of community.
Also in 2018, I began organizing Latin dance events throughout Marin County, bringing people together to celebrate Latin music, dance, and culture. For the past eight years, I have organized successful events at Lighthouse Bar & Grill in Mill Valley, home of my monthly social, Dancing at the Harbor, as well as at other bars and restaurants throughout Marin County. Through these events, I have helped foster a vibrant Latin dance community, creating opportunities for dancers, instructors, and music lovers to connect and share their passion for dance.
That same year, I opened Fernanda Dance & Fitness Studio, a creative space dedicated to dance, fitness, and personal development. I also graduated from Santa Rosa Junior College with an Associate of Arts Degree in Dance and Arts, further strengthening my academic and artistic foundation.
Over the years, I have led teams that have performed at major dance events across the United States and internationally, including the Reno International Dance Festival, San Francisco Salsa Festival, San Francisco SBK Congress, Las Vegas Salsa Super Congress, B.I.G. Salsa Congress, Miami Salsa Congress, and the Cancun Salsa & Bachata Festival.
From 2021 to 2023, I served as Director and Instructor of the Lady Style Army Worldwide Team by Daisy Carrera. In 2023, I became Director, Instructor, and Franchise Owner of Mi Esencia SF by Roxy Vega, continuing my commitment to mentoring dancers and creating empowering performance experiences.
As an instructor, choreographer, performer, and entrepreneur, my mission is to inspire people to discover their confidence, embrace their individuality, and express themselves through movement. Through dance, I strive to create opportunities for people to grow, connect, and challenge themselves while building a supportive and empowering community.
I believe dance has the power to transform lives by building discipline, resilience, creativity, and self-belief.
As a mother, I am continually inspired by watching my daughter grow in confidence through music and dance. Her journey reinforces my belief that success comes not only from talent, but from dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to keep learning.
I believe that talent is only one part of success. Hard work, consistency, and passion are what turn dreams into reality. With focus and determination, anything is possible.
I love my job!