Who we are…

High Level Dance Society (HLDS) is a grassroots San Diego-based nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting the community through the transformative power of Hip Hop culture. Founded by Eddie Gutierrez, also known as Eddie Styles of Rock So Fresh Crew and Full Force SD, HLDS is rooted in a deep love for the city that raised its members.

Led by a collective of passionate local leaders and innovators — Melissa Adao (Bgirl Mel), Nick Martinez (Airnick), and Luis Prado (Lprad) — HLDS creates pathways for hope, joy, inclusivity, arts, and cultural empowerment. Their mission is to give back to underserved and BIPOC youth in San Diego by sharing the wisdom, values, and creative freedom of Hip Hop.

Through community-based initiatives, workshops, and events, High Level Dance Society nurtures the next generation with the same spirit of unity, resilience, and expression that shaped their own journeys. At its core, HLDS is more than a dance organization — it's a movement rooted in love, legacy, and leadership.

What we stand on…

Black Nancy Reagan-style silhouette with a large white letter 'H' in the center, two orange dots on each side, and decorative gold elements beneath.

Follow us on Instagram: @highleveldancesociety

Meet the team

A young man with dark, curly hair and a light brown patterned short-sleeve shirt poses in an outdoor urban setting with containers and a streetlamp behind him.

Luis Prado

A man with dark hair in a bun, wearing a brown t-shirt, holding a green jacket over his shoulder, standing against a brick wall with a window in the background.
A woman smiling and making peace signs with both hands, wearing a black T-shirt with a tiger graphic and the words 'Travelless Hustle No Excuses,' reflective sunglasses, and light-colored jeans, standing outside on a paved area with a store sign and clear sky in the background.

Melissa Adao

A man wearing a black hat, sunglasses, navy blue short-sleeve shirt, light gray shorts, white sneakers with blue shoelaces, a watch, and a necklace, leaning on a white railing on a wooden deck with lush green plants in the background.
A young woman with straight black hair and a bright smile, wearing a blue tank top, sitting indoors against a neutral wall.

Sophia Laurio

Nick Martinez

Eddie Gutierrez