Jelena Djordjevic

Meet Jelena Djordjevic – Keeping Serbian Folk Traditions Alive Abroad

Born and raised in Leskovac, Serbia, Jelena Djordjevic began her folklore journey at just six years old with KUD Abrašević. What started as simple curiosity soon grew into a lifelong passion, nurtured over 12 years of learning the rich traditions of Serbian dance.

Her dedication and talent led her to become not only a lead dancer but also an instructor for children aged 7–11, where she began sharing her knowledge with the next generation.

After moving abroad, Jelena’s journey took root in Phoenix, Arizona, where in March 2020 she began teaching Serbian folklore at Gavrilo Princip. Despite the brief pause caused by the pandemic, the group made a strong comeback in 2021, growing into a thriving community of young dancers. Today, Jelena proudly leads this ensemble, helping children abroad connect with their heritage through the art of dance.

For Jelena, folklore is more than just dance steps — it’s a joyful way to build friendships, preserve cultural identity, develop rhythm and coordination, boost self-confidence, and most importantly, have fun. With every performance, she honors her mentors, her homeland, and the power of tradition to inspire new generations.

You can experience Jelena’s passion and artistry live at the 1st Eastern European Folk Festival in Phoenix, Arizona on September 13, 2025, where she will be one of our featured Balkan Folk Dance Master Class instructors. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from her and celebrate the vibrant spirit of Serbian culture!