Fresh Arts is delighted to introduce the newest members of our Board of Directors! Each of these individuals brings a wealth of experience, passion, and dedication to our mission, and we are excited to have them on board as we continue working toward our goals. Their unique perspectives and expertise will be invaluable as we grow and make an even greater impact in our community. Read on to learn more about each of our new board members!
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Kendahl Bermudez is a Brooklyn-born Afro-Latina with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance and currently serves as the Development Manager at Arts Connect Houston. Her career began in Florida, where she received grants to teach dance in underserved communities, sparking her interest in arts administration. She later transitioned to full-time administrative roles, including co-managing a $6 million budget for a major ballet company and playing a key role in raising $1.1 million for a local arts organization. Driven by her experiences as a high school dancer, professional performer, and arts administrator, Kendahl is deeply committed to supporting artists. She advocates for greater accessibility to the arts, strengthens arts and culture communities, and works as a connector between artists and essential resources.
Sha Davis is a multifaceted creative in Houston’s thriving arts scene. Known for her roles as a cultural engineer, arts administrator, music advocate, and dynamic performance artist, Sha’s impact transcends disciplines and communities, continuously driving innovation and creative expression.
As a multidisciplinary artist, Sha has become a prominent figure in Houston’s performance art landscape, combining her talents as a writer/composer, vocalist, sound bowl practitioner, and performance artist to create transformative experiences. Her dedication to sound healing has guided her artistic practice, fostering spaces for healing, reflection, and connection through music and sound. As the Civic Arts Manager for the City of Sugar Land, Sha Davis has championed a new era of public art and community engagement. Under her leadership, the city has seen a record number of commissioned public art pieces, performances, certifications, and events!
Ericka De Leon, also known as “BabyGirl,” is a pivotal figure in American break culture today. As a bgirl, mentor, entrepreneur, and community leader, her influence reaches far beyond the dance floor. In her role with the Breaking for Gold USA Council, she has shaped standards and criteria for major events, while her vast network and expertise have been key to transforming the Bgirl City platform into a nationwide tour. BabyGirl’s deep commitment to hip-hop culture has evolved into community leadership. She serves as the Director of Youth Advocates, a non-profit organization, and has expanded her impact through entrepreneurial ventures, including the creation of her clothing brand, Texas Originals, which sponsors events and dance groups.
Ericka “BabyGirl” De Leon is more than a figure in break culture—she is a trailblazer, community builder, and a powerful female voice breaking barriers while inspiring the next generation of dancers.
Adam Faust is the founder of 5+8, a Houston-based branding agency that helps businesses build powerful, authentic brands that resonate with their audiences. With a natural talent for strategy and storytelling, Adam excels at transforming complex ideas into clear, compelling narratives. His collaborative approach has earned him the trust of clients like Lyft, Saint Arnold Brewing Co., and Color Factory.
As a creative leader, Adam is deeply invested in fostering a supportive and inclusive culture at 5+8, where his team is encouraged to think big and deliver exceptional work. Beyond the agency, Adam is a passionate community connector, coaching youth softball and spearheading ‘The Most Professional Network,’ a Houston-based group for senior-level leaders.
Elsa Mendoza is the Account & Operations Manager at Rukaz Kultura, an all-woman-run marketing and event production agency. Born and raised in Houston as a first-generation Mexican American, Elsa holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University and a Master’s in Social Work with a concentration in Public Policy.
In 2018, Elsa founded Artisticas, Houston’s first all-Latina-run art market. This groundbreaking initiative has supported countless artists in their entrepreneurial journeys, helping them expand their networks and thrive in the arts community.
Beyond her professional work, Elsa has represented Houston on the global stage as a competitive Salsa dancer, earning placements in international competitions.
Elsa’s goals include building stronger networks for local artists, particularly those in underserved communities. Her expertise spans event production and logistics, budget analysis and management, project management, and community organizing, making her a dynamic advocate for art, culture, and equity.