STACEY McKNIGHT
“Growing up in Edmonton, I immersed myself in ballet, tap, modern dance, and drama classes, including Anna Scher, and performed at prestigious venues like Hackney Empire, Shaw Theatre, and more. My passion for the arts has always been a driving force in my life.
I studied performing arts at Chicken Shed and later attended and worked with Haringey Shed, where I taught dance, drama, and mentored young people in schools across Haringey and Enfield. I am now a qualified youth worker, dedicated to supporting young people in the borough of Enfield.
Twelve years ago, my love for the arts inspired me to open my own school. Today, I have the privilege of helping young people follow their dreams, one step at a time. I am committed to instilling life skills, discipline, and leadership in every member who walks through our doors, empowering them to believe they can achieve anything they set their mind to.”
TABS FRANCIS
With over 25 years of experience in the hair care industry, I am a professional, award-winning hairstylist dedicated to excellence in healthy hair care. For the past seven years, I’ve successfully run my own business, combining technical expertise with a passion for creating confidence through beautiful, healthy hair.
As a hair educator, I take great pride in sharing my knowledge and inspiring the next generation of hairstylists. Teaching the importance of healthy hair care has always been a driving force in my career.
In addition, I am an active member of my community, serving as a Parent Governor and Chair of the PTA for St. Mark’s Church of England Primary School. These roles allow me to advocate for children and families, fostering a positive environment for learning and growth.
Beyond the salon, I have a strong commitment to working with young people and the community, I find it incredibly rewarding to mentor and support their growth. I’ve had the privilege of serving as a chaperone for Steppaz and currently hold the role of Steppaz Manager.
I am deeply passionate about making a difference, both in my profession and in the lives of others.
TANYA WILLIAMS-GRIFFITH
Working hard alongside children in Haringey as a foster carer and a support carer, I have a passion for seeing the growth of young children in the community.
I got started with Steppaz as my daughter attended 1 session at the age of 3 and now performs and attends competitions worldwide
As a former Ice-skater competing worldwide i understand the love for the arts even if its just a hobby
KYRA DOCKERARY
Hi, my name is Kyra, and I started my journey with Steppaz in 2014. Growing up in a family full of dancers and singers, it was only natural that I would follow a similar path. Attending various performing arts workshops solidified my passion for dance and performing, and I knew this was the direction I wanted to take.
Over the years, I’ve explored a variety of activities, including cheerleading, gymnastics, football, netball, and, of course, dancing. My dance journey at Steppaz, however, has been nothing short of extraordinary. Steppaz provided me with incredible opportunities, such as going on tour, performing in Glasgow and the Netherlands, and experiencing the magic of dance in ways I never imagined.
I truly believe Steppaz is a platform that helps young people follow their dreams, just as it did for me. That’s why I’m so passionate about being part of an organization that leads kids to greatness, opening doors to opportunities that can change their lives.
I’ve been fortunate to have amazing teachers over the years who have not only enhanced my skills but also helped me view life from different perspectives. I want to give back by helping other kids grow both physically and mentally, equipping them with the confidence and mindset to pursue their dreams.
Steppaz has shaped who I am today, and I’m excited in my role as Social Media Coordinator and Admin Support to inspire the next generation of dancers and performers to reach their full potential.
STEPHANIE FRIMPONG
Hi, my name is Stephanie, and I’ve been involved with Steppaz for about a year now. My journey began in the summer of 2022 when I joined the youth club at Craig Park during the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations. Witnessing the first performance, I was captivated and knew I wanted to be part of this vibrant community.
I started volunteering at various shows and events organized by Steppaz and quickly became immersed in the energy and passion of the group. Participating in the Summer and Christmas shows, as well as fun days, allowed me to contribute creatively. I also took on technical roles, managing lighting and projection for their performances, which broadened my skills and deepened my appreciation for the arts.
In early 2024, I began a work experience program with Steppaz, assisting the CEO, Stacey McKnight, and the senior leadership team. This role includes supporting dance classes, where I help with various tasks and engage with the children. These experiences have been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to grow both personally and professionally.
Steppaz has provided me with a platform to develop new skills, connect with inspiring individuals, and contribute to a community that fosters creativity and growth. I look forward to continuing this journey and supporting others in their artistic endeavors.
TALISHA ANDERSON-WRIGHT
NIKI CUNNINGHAM & ANTONI CASSELL
Niki
Antoni
Here’s a polished version of your introducI am a middle leader and a qualified teacher specializing in Primary and SEND education. With experience working across all age groups, I firmly believe that every child possesses unique talents and capabilities, alongside their own strengths and challenges. My philosophy is simple: see the good in every child, nurture their talents, and encourage them to embrace their uniqueness.
Growing up, I was part of a street dance group and performed at Waltham Forest talent shows, which ignited my lifelong passion for the performing arts. Now, as a parent, I am proud to see my daughters follow a similar path, having been part of Steppaz for the past five years.
It brings me immense joy to see our young people dance and act with such passion and enthusiasm. I am honored to support them at every stage of their journey—a step closer to realizing their dreams.
Let me know if you’d like further adjustments!
JORDAN ALEXANDER
My passion for dance truly ignited when I joined the Steppaz competition team. Competing across various stages and earning multiple titles, I discovered the transformative power of dance. This passion took me to the international stage, representing the UK in competitions from Glasgow to Arizona. Witnessing how different countries choreograph and train was incredibly inspiring, and it solidified my commitment to pursuing dance as a lifelong journey.
I’ve been fortunate to have incredible mentors who pushed me toward a professional dance career, and for that, I’ll always be grateful. Their guidance opened doors to opportunities such as performing on artist tours, featuring in music videos, and showcasing my craft at some of the most respected venues in the world.
While I continue my dance training, my focus has shifted to sharing my knowledge with the next generation. I aspire to emulate the incredible dance teachers who inspired me and to empower young dancers to believe in themselves and their abilities. If I can help even one dancer recognize their potential, I’ll feel fulfilled knowing I’ve contributed to their journey.
TERRY TETTEH-MARTEY
From an early age, I developed a deep passion for music and knew I wanted to share the joy it brought me with everyone I encountered. After earning a Bachelor’s Degree with Honours in Music Performance, I had the privilege of collaborating with notable organizations such as Haringey Shed and Hackney Empire, where I worked with music teams dedicated to empowering youth through the arts.
As a composer and facilitator, I have written scores for various music productions and have been committed to making music accessible to all. Whether through lyric, melody, or song, I strive to inspire creativity and connection, using music as a tool to bring people together and nurture talent.
Sharing my passion for music remains at the heart of everything I do, and I am dedicated to helping others experience the same transformative power that music has had in my life.
PRISCILLE MANANGU
Priscille is a talented performer based in London, having honed her craft at the prestigious London College of Performing Arts in musical theatre and acting. She further refined her skills at Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts. After graduating in 2024, Priscille quickly made her mark in the professional world, with standout credits that include performing with Lenny Kravitz at the UEFA Champions League Final at Wembley Stadium and appearing in music videos for renowned artist Arlo Parks.
Currently, Priscille is a proud member of the award-winning hip-hop company Boy Blue. Passionate about sharing her knowledge, she is dedicated to teaching and inspiring the next generation of performers at Steppaz.
DIVINE DEY
SOFIA GABRIELLA
With over 16 years of dance experience and a career that began at the young age of 4, I have devoted my life to the art of movement. Starting with ballet and hip hop at my local church group, I quickly discovered my love for performance and pursued professional training with esteemed groups like IMD Legion and The Movement Factory.
My journey has been filled with incredible opportunities, such as competing at the World Championships in America, performing in Denmark, gracing the stage at Move It, and even reaching the Britain’s Got Talent semi-finals. One of the highlights of my career was being featured in the Nike Airforce campaign, where my dancing was showcased at the Oxford Circus Nike store.
A pivotal moment in my career was completing a dance teaching course sponsored by Nike, where I gained valuable certifications, including my First Aid Certificate and DBS qualification. This experience ignited my passion for teaching and working with children, inspiring me to pursue it as a lifelong career.
My dedication to dance also extends to my academics, as I earned distinctions in BTEC Dance and Performing Arts and Dance A-Levels. Today, I continue to train with one of the UK’s leading hip hop groups, Boy Blue, while teaching with Steppaz and leading my competition group, Superlit!
What sets my teaching apart is my commitment to empowering the next generation of dancers. I bring my professional experience, technical knowledge, and passion for creativity into every class, ensuring students not only develop their skills but also build confidence and a love for dance.
Whether you’re looking to master hip hop, gain performance experience, or build a foundation in dance, my classes offer a unique opportunity to learn from someone with a wealth of experience and a heart for teaching.
CHRISTAL INNERARITY
Dance has been a lifelong passion, one that began at an early age and blossomed through my time at Steppaz, where I was nurtured and shaped into the dancer and person I am today. My journey at Steppaz ignited my love for the art form and motivated me to pursue professional training at a dance college, where I expanded my repertoire to include ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, and street dance.
Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to work with some of the most talented creatives in the industry. Highlights include performing in the LYFT Festival, touring across the UK, and competing in prestigious competitions throughout Europe. These experiences have not only exposed me to mind-blowing performances but also allowed me to connect with incredible individuals, broadening my perspective as both a dancer and choreographer.
One of my proudest achievements was serving as a junior choreographer, working closely with our inspiring artistic director. Her mentorship gave me the confidence to submit my own choreography to an annual showcase, where my work was selected among 10 other choreographers to be performed for a distinguished audience.
None of this would have been possible without the support of my Steppaz family, who have continually encouraged me to reach new heights. Now, I am dedicated to giving back by sharing my knowledge, passion, and love for dance with everyone I meet. I aim to inspire and empower others, just as I have been inspired on my journey.
JERMAINE ANDERSON
Hi, my name is Jermaine, and I’ve been part of the Steppaz family since 2015. My journey began with a summer workshop where we created a musical in just one week. I instantly fell in love with the energy and creativity of Steppaz and signed up for drama classes the following term, as I was initially too nervous to try dance.
After participating in a few shows at Steppaz, my confidence grew. Watching the incredible dancers around me inspired me to take my first dance class—and I’ve never looked back!
In 2019, I joined the competition team, which became a turning point in my development as a dancer. Through this experience, I gained invaluable skills and had incredible opportunities to perform at iconic venues such as the Hackney Empire, Royal Albert Hall, and even at the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Parade. I’ve also competed in numerous competitions across the country, each one challenging me to grow and refine my craft.
Today, I’m honored to continue my journey with Steppaz as choreograher, where I can learn even more, support others, and help inspire the next generation of performers. Steppaz has been instrumental in shaping who I am, and I’m excited to give back to the community that has given me so much.
TYLER ACHER
Dance has always been my ultimate passion and career goal. My journey began when I was awarded a dance scholarship at a performing arts school, which solidified my dedication to the craft and set the foundation for my future.
Over the years, I have trained extensively at renowned institutions such as Trinity Laban, where I earned the Silver Arts Award, the Royal Academy of Dance, Step into Dance, and Impact Dance, among others. My training spans multiple street dance styles, including Hip Hop, Poppin, Locking, Breakin, Krump, and freestyling.
These experiences have led to some incredible performance opportunities at prestigious events and venues, including the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, the Royal Albert Hall, the Peacock Theatre, and MOVE It.
Currently, I am pursuing a BA Hons degree in Dance Urban Practice at the University of East London (UEL). My studies have allowed me to dive deeper into styles like Breakin and Capoeira, as well as to build strong connections within the dance industry. As part of this journey, I’ve had the privilege to perform at Breakin’ Convention at Sadler’s Wells Theatre, for the Mayor of London, and as a member of the UEL Collective, choreographed by the legendary Kenrick H2O Sandy at MOVE It.
My goal is to continue growing as both a dancer and choreographer, using my experiences to inspire others and contribute to the future of dance.
JAY ALLEN
Hi, my name is Jay Allen, and I’m excited to be a new member of the Steppaz team. My journey with Steppaz began in 2021, when I had the opportunity to judge one of their battle events. The incredible talent, drive, and passion displayed by the students inspired me to share my knowledge and experience with them, motivating me to become part of this fantastic community.
A bit about me: I started dancing in 2015 at a dance company called Warriorz Performing Arts, which taught me the fundamentals of street dance and hip hop. Over the years, I’ve become an active member of the freestyle/battle community, competing in and winning two major battles in 2018 and 2019.
In 2021, I graduated from the Urdang Academy, where I further developed my skills and passion for dance. Since then, I’ve worked on professional projects such as music videos, commercials, and live shows, while also teaching dance in primary schools and at Warriorz.
Dance is more than just a career for me—it’s my passion. I believe in the power of the dance community, and it’s that connection that drives me to teach and inspire others.
FRANCESCO TRANCHINA
Francesco’s lifelong aspiration has always been to become a dedicated dance practitioner, using the art of dance to empower others with the ability to express themselves. Since discovering dance, he has been captivated by its transformative power and regards it as a vital tool for enriching future generations.
Graduating with First-Class Honours from the University of East London, Francesco has become a firm believer in the philosophy that knowledge is power. His extensive experience includes working with renowned entities such as BoyBlue Entertainment and Breakin’ Convention, and contributing to major projects like Walk With Amal and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
In addition to these remarkable experiences, Francesco has undertaken choreographic projects of his own, including Studio 3 Arts: Vital Stage, UEL’s Scratch Lab, and creating choreography for various competitions. His journey as a dancer and educator, spanning from battle scenes to stage productions, has allowed him to refine his skills and develop a comprehensive understanding of teaching Urban dance styles.
Francesco’s dedication to the craft, combined with his passion for education, drives his desire to give back to the dance community. He is now ready to take the next step in his journey, continuing to grow as both an educator and an artist, and inspiring others through his work.
Would you like to highlight any additional details or emphasize specific aspects of Francesco’s journey?
TAYLOR AGGARRAT
Dance has always been a driving force in my life, starting at the young age of 4. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of training in various places, including Steppaz, where I truly discovered my potential. At Steppaz, I was fortunate to gain incredible opportunities, such as competing in world championships and performing on tour with LIFT, which helped build my confidence and ignite my passion for creating my own choreography.
By the age of 15, I began leading sessions, sharing my skills and enthusiasm for dance. This led me to teach in multiple boroughs, giving me the chance to inspire and guide others on their own dance journeys.
My experiences have shaped me into a dedicated dancer and teacher, committed to fostering creativity, confidence, and community through dance.
VYRETTA DADSON
Hey, my name is Vyretta Dadson, I’ve been at Steppaz since November 2022. Steppaz has not only been a Performing Arts Academy, but for me it has also been a safe and enjoyable space where I’ve made new friends and family. I’ve been an ambassador for a little while but already I’ve learnt so much on how to stay organised, planning events and so much more. Being an ambassador has also allowed me to have a better understanding about work life and time management. Lastly, Steppaz encourages me to exceed through difficult challenges and achieve my dreams.
TEEYAH CUNNINGHAM
Hello my name is Teeyah Renee’
I have been dancing since the age of Three I joined Steppaz in 2019 since joining Steppaz I have gotten into the Elite competition team
Where I have had the opportunity to travel to the Netherlands, Alton Towers various street dance competitions across the country where I have won many trophies as part on the competition team and as a solo competitor.
I was chosen to take part in the Queens Plaitnum jubilee which was a once in a lifetime opportunity.
Steppaz is like my second family everyone is kind friendly and supportive of each other.
Over the years I have grow not just as a dancer I have become more confident as an individual I feel honoured to of been chosen to be a Steppaz ambassador I know it comes with great responsibility and there is a lot of hardwork involved but I am looking forward to the challenge thank you Steppaz for the opportunity
TAI TURNER
My name is Tai Turner and I am 14 years old. I live with my Mum and my two younger sisters.
My superpower is that I am autistic, so sometimes I need more detail to complete the tasks I am given.
I attend St Andrews Greek Apostle School in Barnet, and I am just about to start Year 10. I enjoy Maths, Art and French.
I have been doing Shotokan Karate since the age of 6, and I am a few belts away from my black belt. I attend Karate once a week and I now help the sensei to teach the lower grade belts. I really enjoy doing this.
I really enjoy looking after little children and helping others. When I’m older, I want to work with children. My interest of being a young ambassador started from helping in the mini Steppaz class where my sister also attends.
Wherever I go, I always volunteer my services to help and support, and I believe that this has prepared me for my role as a youth ambassador.
I want to be a Youth ambassador because I want to make a positive impact on my community.
I am really excited about my role as a Youth ambassador, and I am committed to doing what is required of me.
ISABELLA
MYAH
SCARLETT
RUTH