Biography

For over 45 years, she has danced with the Ballet Folklórico Hermanos Ayala, demonstrating her unwavering dedication to bomba. As a cultural curator, Sheila has represented Puerto Rico internationally, appearing on programs such as Vascos por el Mundo and National Geographic Traveller, and featured in audiovisual productions including Vejigantes, Spike Lee’s film on Netflix, Telemundo Miami specials, and documentaries produced by Queen Latifah. As founder or co-founder of initiatives like Talleres de Bomba N’Zambi, Herederas Culturales, Reinas Magas, and the Mi Batey Magazine, she promotes cultural knowledge and empowerment. Recognized as Folklorist of the Year (2017) by Casa Cultural Vuiza, and honored by the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture and the Senate, she has also guided pageant queens such as Miss Universe Puerto Rico 2021 Michelle Colón. Sheila represented Puerto Rico at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino in Washington, D.C., and is the author of children’s books like Río Libertad and El Sueño de Cayito. Her image graces a mural at the Puerto Rico International Airport as part of the “Junté Boricua” project, and she was featured in Discover Puerto Rico’s “Faces of Tourism” campaign. An engaged cultural ambassador, Sheila offers immersive bomba experiences at Puente Herrera in Loíza for local and international visitors. She recently participated in the Media Mission in Bogotá, reaffirming her role as a global promoter of Puerto Rican culture. She has also led workshops and fairs in cities such as New York, Chicago, Philadelphia, Orlando, and Tampa, and partnered with community organizations including the Boys & Girls Club of Loíza.