About
Our Story
Healing Rhythms is more than just an organisation – it is a movement started by two siblings with a shared dream. Ananya and Arnav Relia grew up experiencing the joy and discipline that dance, music, and sports can bring to everyday life. They also recognised that many children and families in underserved communities lack access to these opportunities. Healing Rhythms was born from their desire to close this gap.
Together, they created Healing Rhythms as a youth-led, 501©(3) nonprofit organisation. Their goal is simple: to combine the disciplines of dance, music, and sports into therapeutic programs that enhance both mental and physical health.
Based in South Jersey, Healing Rhythms works across communities in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. By partnering with schools, community centres, and local organisations, the team ensures that children, families, and even seniors can access safe and joyful spaces for healing and growth.
At its heart, Healing Rhythms is a story of young leaders stepping forward to create positive change – proving that age is no barrier when it comes to making a difference.
Meet the Founders
Ananya Relia
Founder & Youth Leader, Healing Rhythms
Grade: Tenth (Sophomore)
School: Eastern Regional High School, Voorhees, NJ
Location: Voorhees, New Jersey
Ananya Relia is a passionate and accomplished student leader who co-founded Healing Rhythms, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting wellness through music, movement, and science. With a unique blend of artistic talent and scientific curiosity, Ananya exemplifies the balance between compassion and innovation.
She has been learning dance since the age of five and is well-versed in Bollywood, Hip Hop, and Bharatnatyam. For the past three years, she has worked as an Assistant Choreographer at Matru Dance Academy, mentoring younger dancers and helping choreograph performances.
Ananya is also a decorated science researcher, having won multiple awards at prestigious science fairs including the Delaware Valley Science Fair and Coriell Science Fair. Her projects focus on health, medicine, and microbiology, reflecting her deep commitment to improving human well-being.
- Founder of Healing Rhythms
- Dance: Bollywood, Hip Hop, Bharatnatyam; Assistant Choreographer
- Science: Multiple award-winning projects in health and microbiology
- Music: Piano and Violin
- Sports: Varsity Tennis
- Community Service: Volunteering at hospitals and cultural centers
- Leadership: Engagement coordinator, public speaker, and tutor
Role in Healing Rhythms:
As a founder and youth leader, Ananya brings creativity, empathy, and scientific insight to Healing Rhythms. She leads dance workshops, coordinates youth engagement, and inspires others to explore the healing power of rhythm and research.
Arnav Relia
Founder & Youth Leader, Healing Rhythms
Grade: 8th Grade
School: Voorhees Middle School
Location: Voorhees, New Jersey
Arnav is a dynamic and multi-talented eighth grader who co-founded Healing Rhythms, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting wellness through music, movement, and community engagement. His passion for health, science, and the arts drives his commitment to making a positive impact.
Arnav is deeply involved in sports, playing basketball, football, and tennis. He also expresses his creativity through music, playing both the piano and drums. His love for performance extends to dance, where he has competed in team competitions and won several awards.
A budding scientist, Arnav has participated in multiple science fairs over the years, focusing on projects that explore innovative ways to improve health and well-being.
- Founder of Healing Rhythms
- Sports: Basketball, Football, Tennis
- Music: Piano, Drums
- Dance: Team competitions with multiple awards
- Science: Health-focused science fair projects
Role in Healing Rhythms:
As a founder and youth leader, Arnav brings vision, energy, and creativity to Healing Rhythms. He helps organize events, contributes musical and dance performances, and inspires other young volunteers to engage in health-focused community service.