Dancer Defies Limits, Charms World Stage
Wheelchair-bound performer embraces passion and overcomes adversity.
Thirty-year-old **Shenaragh Nemani** is proving that physical limitations are no barrier to artistic expression, captivating audiences worldwide with her vibrant Latin dance performances. Despite living with cerebral palsy, quadriplegia, and scoliosis, and communicating via computer, Nemani’s energy and passion are infectious.
From Seated Observation to Global Recognition
Nemani’s dance journey began around age seven when her uncle encouraged her to join a group dance. Though unable to move physically, a powerful song sparked an involuntary movement in her hands, igniting a lifelong love for dance.
Her unique talent was later discovered by legendary salsa dancer **Albert Torres**. He invited her to perform at the 2016 World Latin Dance Cup in Miami, creating a special “Limitless” division for her. With community support to fund her travel, Nemani triumphed, winning first place and winning over the audience and judges.
“I just started crying because I was like, ‘oh my god, they love her!’”
—Cheryl Nemani, Shenaragh’s Mother
Nemani has since graced stages in Los Angeles and New York and was recently preparing for a performance in Puerto Rico. She expressed her excitement, noting, “I’m always excited when I get the chance to perform, wherever it may be. But going overseas is a plus – the guys are so hot and they always come up to me.”
Navigating a World Not Built for Her
Nemani’s mother, **Cheryl**, described the significant financial and emotional toll of supporting her daughter’s passion. The family relies on fundraising to cover the costs associated with Nemani’s extensive care and performance opportunities. Cheryl shared her pride in seeing her daughter shine on stage, stating, “She dances on stage in the same space as world champions. So I love to see everyone’s faces when they see her go on cause she’s in this wheelchair and, you know, you want to see her, honestly, her hands are gone, her legs are gone and she’s loving it.”
The family faces ongoing challenges, including frequent hospital visits, numerous surgeries, and the complexities of navigating disability benefits. Cheryl recounted the frustrating need to constantly re-verify Nemani’s condition, even when medical professionals confirm her limitations.
“I literally walk her in the office and go, ‘Yep, she still can’t walk, she still can’t do anything for herself’. I literally have to do that. The doctors and the specialists and the nurses write letters and say ‘she will never be able to do this’ and it doesn’t matter.”
—Cheryl Nemani, Shenaragh’s Mother
Nemani herself is candid about the difficulties of living with cerebral palsy, calling it “a pain the a***.” She expressed frustration over physical limitations and the sadness of watching others participate in activities she cannot. However, she also sees a positive aspect: “the good side to it is me being able to educate others just by being me.”
Pursuing Education and Breaking Stigmas
Beyond dance, Nemani is pursuing a business degree at a local polytechnic and studying traditional Māori healing practices with her mother. Despite facing employment discrimination, where potential employers often dismiss her, Nemani remains determined.
According to a 2023 report by the World Health Organization, an estimated 1.3 billion people worldwide live with a significant disability, yet societal barriers often prevent full inclusion and participation in economic and social life (Source: World Health Organization).
Nemani’s parents provide unwavering support through periods of depression, driven by a desire to help her achieve a fulfilling life. Nemani’s message to the public is clear: “I may be in a chair but please don’t judge me… I understand most things you say, and I can respond but you just need to have a little patience [as] I put my sentence together. I’m happy-go-lucky but also sensitive. Say hi, don’t be shy.”
