Akemi began her circus training at The Actors Gymnasium in Evanston, Il when she was 8 years old. She performed as an original member of The Actors Gymnasium Teen Ensemble throughout the Chicagoland area. In addition to training many aerial skills at The Actors Gym, Akemi also studied contortion with renowned contortionist, Oyuna Yadamjav. Akemi continued her love of circus after leaving Illinois, helping found the Oberlin College Aerialists. After moving to the Twin Cities for graduate school, Akemi was thrilled to join the amazing staff at Xelias Aerial Arts Studio. Since completing her studies, she can’t imagine leaving the Xelias family and now calls Minneapolis home. Akemi is excited for the opportunity to continue coaching and watching all the students grow in confidence, courage, and strength, both in the air and in life.
