Pierre Batiste

Artistic Director / Choreographer / Dancer / Flagger / Vocalist

Pierre is a dance artist, educator, choreographer, and arts leader whose passion for movement and community engagement has been cultivated over the past 18 years. Shortly after beginning their dance journey, Pierre joined UZIMA!, where they discovered the power of the arts to inspire meaningful change throughout the Michiana community.

Under the mentorship of UZIMA!’s late Artistic Director and Founder, Kelly Burgét, Pierre developed as both a performer and leader, culminating in their appointment as Company Director in 2024. Their leadership is grounded in a deep commitment to artistic excellence, education, and community impact.

Since 2018,, Pierre has served as an actor, singer, dance educator and choreographer across a variety of educational and community organizations, including UZIMA! Drum and Dance, South Bend Civic Theatre, South Bend Community School Corporation, Lake Michigan College and School City of Mishawaka. Through their work within South Bend's educational system, Pierre has collaborated with students of diverse backgrounds, creating choreography for school productions, cultivating technical and artistic growth, and using dance as a tool for confidence, creativity, and self-expression. They believe that teaching is a collaborative process and value the opportunity to learn from every student they mentor.

Pierre's dedication to UZIMA! extends far beyond the stage. Succeeding Ms. Burgét as Artistic Director, they play an integral role in shaping the organization's artistic vision, developing performance programming, and supporting the operational framework that allows the company to flourish. As Artistic Director, Pierre is committed to expanding UZIMA!'s reach, strengthening its impact throughout the region, and ensuring the organization continues to grow as a vibrant force for artistic excellence, cultural celebration, and community transformation.