Aleen
Founder of Indigo Studios

Aleen is the visionary founder of Indigo Studios, a movement studio built on the principles of empowerment, self-expression, and community. Her lifelong passion for dance has been a guiding force throughout her journey. During the pandemic she discovered her true calling in pole dance—a transformative art form that allowed her to embrace confidence, self-love, and healing. As a PFA Pole Fitness Alliance and Liquid Motion certified instructor, Aleen understands the importance of safe, inclusive spaces and is committed to creating environments where others, especially women, can explore and express themselves freely, away from societal expectations.

Aleen’s cultural heritage is a vital part of her identity. As an Aztec dancer and council member of Xochikalli, an Indigenous community in Chicago, she actively practices and honors her Nahua lineage, fostering a connection to her roots while supporting the preservation of Indigenous traditions. Her holistic approach to well-being is reflected in her active practice of martial arts, which nurtures both physical resilience and spiritual growth.

In addition to her work in dance and movement, Aleen is an accomplished photographer specializing in portraiture and boudoir. She captures beauty, strength, and sensuality in moments of vulnerability, using her art to empower her subjects and celebrate their authenticity. Her advocacy extends to working for environmental equity and justice in underserved communities, where she is dedicated to creating meaningful change. She also co-runs Zentli, a plant-based food business that honors her cultural heritage by celebrating authentic Mexican cuisine.

Having grown up in the north suburbs, Aleen now calls Pilsen home, where she is deeply rooted in her community. As a member of a housing co-op, she is dedicated to cultivating connections and creating spaces where art, culture, and justice intertwine, leaving a lasting and meaningful impact on those around her.