Sofia Zobel-Elizalde

A steadfast champion of dance and arts education, Sofia Zobel-Elizalde continues to nurture generations of Filipino talent through her pioneering work at Steps Dance Studio, which recently marked its 31st anniversary. As founder and managing director, she has built an institution that combines artistic excellence with social purpose—training world-class dancers while supporting underprivileged youth through the Steps Scholarship Foundation.

In partnership with The Ayala Foundation’s Center for Excellence (Centex), the foundation continues to provide accessible, high-calibre education in music and dance. Many of its scholars have gone on to perform internationally, including with prestigious institutions such as the American Ballet Theatre (ABT). This connection has come full circle with Zobel-Elizalde now serving on ABT’s Global Council, deepening her commitment to strengthening cultural ties and opening more opportunities for Filipino dancers on the global stage.

Beyond the studio, she remains a tireless advocate for children’s education and creativity as vice president of Museo Pambata, where she has helped lead new initiatives to revitalise the museum and expand its reach. Her efforts—from staging cultural programmes to supporting educational spaces that inspire imagination and self-expression—underscore a lifelong mission to make the arts accessible to all.

As she looks ahead to 2026, Zobel-Elizalde hints at new and exciting projects in the works, promising to continue shaping the country’s cultural landscape through her enduring dedication to the arts and education.