Jay Genaille is a World-Class Hoop Dancer, Workshop Facilitator, and Speaker. He is Néhiyaw (Cree) and Anishnaabe, and was born and raised on Blackfoot Confederacy Treaty 7 Territory in Calgary, Alberta.  Jay's ancestral roots on his late mother's side are connected to Treaty 5 Misipawistik Cree Nation and Treaty 2 Lake St. Martin First Nation in Manitoba. On his father's side, his roots are connected to Treaty 4 Cowessess First Nation, where he is a registered band member. 

Jay began hoop dancing at age nine. What began at a young age grew into a lifelong journey of culture, movement, storytelling and connection.  Throughout his career, Jay has had the privilege of sharing the Hoop Dance with audiences and communities across Turtle Island and beyond. His performances blend athleticism, artistry and storytelling, creating opportunities for audiences to experience the beauty and significance of the art. Jay has competed in the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest at the Heard Museum in Phoenix, Arizona, for three consecutive years. He has also performed in the Calgary Stampede Grandstand Show and represented the Calgary Stampede at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. 

Today, Jay continues to travel to First Nations communities, schools, festivals, conferences, organizations and special events to share his gifts through hoop dance performances, workshops and speaking engagements.  For Jay, hoop dancing is more than a performance. It is an opportunity to share culture, build relationships, inspire young people, and create meaningful connections among people and communities.