Zoila Peña was born in Barinas, Venezuela. She began ballet at age 8 at the Fundacion Barijazz and continued her studies with Ballet Estudio Central at 12 years old, where she was taught by Dulce Rodríguez, Héctor Trejo, and Levi Mocharrafich. Her professional career commenced at 17 years old as Principal Soloist at Ballet Teresa Carreño in 2017, followed by a promotion to Principal Dancer in 2022. She has performed leading roles in Paquita, Coppélia, and Black Swan and has performed numerous works by Vicente Nebreda. In 2024, she worked alongside the artistic directors of Gulfshore Ballet, Iliana Lopez and Franklin Gamero. In January 2025, she participated in the Miami International Ballet Competition (MIBC), winning first place in the solo and pas de deux categories. Last season Zoila made her Richmond Ballet debut in leading roles in The Nutcracker and Giselle. She is thrilled to be back for her second season!