Dr. Farima Berenji is a distinguished scholar, internationally acclaimed performing artist, choreographer, and Sufi master of the Iranian Sufi order of Yarsan. She holds a doctorate degree in ethnochoreology and a post-doctorate degree in Sufism, specializing in Iranian mysticism, rituals, and spiritual traditions. Farima combines academic research, cultural preservation, and spiritual depth in her teachings, performances, and lectures. She is recognized as one of the foremost scholars of ancient and mystical Iranian ethnochoreology, dedicating her life to preserving and sharing the sacred arts and spiritual traditions of Iran.
Farima is the first Iranian woman to direct a Persian dance company, presenting performances for distinguished audiences, including President Barack Obama, President Joe Biden, the European Union, the United Nations, and other international dignitaries. She is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective, assistant director and program coordinator of Eastern Arts, and founder of Dance of the Soul™.
She serves as an advisory council member of Mosaic America, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO), and a member of the National Folk Organization. Farima is also recognized as the first Iranian-American woman TEDx lecturer and performer in the fields of performance art and spirituality.
Through her research, teaching, and artistry, Dr. Farima Berenji inspires global audiences through the transformative power of dance, movement, music, and ancient wisdom.