ABOUT US

FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS, ONE STEP AT A TIME


Steppaz CIC is a community-focused organisation based in North London, with a history dating back to 2013.

What began as a passion for dance has grown into a wider community supporting children, young people and families through performing arts, creativity, mentoring, leadership and opportunities to grow.

For more than 13 years, Steppaz has created spaces where young people can learn, perform, develop their confidence and discover their potential.

Our work goes beyond the stage. We believe that with the right support, encouragement and opportunities, young people can develop skills that benefit them not only as performers, but in everyday life and their future.



OUR STORY

FROM A PASSION FOR DANCE TO A COMMUNITY FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

Steppaz began in 2013 with a vision to create a space where children and young people could develop their passion for dance while building confidence, discipline, friendships and life skills.


Over the years, Steppaz has grown from a performing arts academy into a trusted community for children, young people and families.


Through classes, productions, competitions, performances, community events, mentoring, projects and leadership opportunities, we have supported thousands of young people and created countless opportunities for them to learn, perform and grow.


STACEY'S STORY

Stacey McKnight is the founder of Steppaz, a creative visionary, qualified youth worker and passionate advocate for young people and the performing arts.


Growing up in Edmonton, Stacey developed a love for dance and drama, training in ballet, tap, modern dance and drama, including Anna Scher. She performed at venues including Hackney Empire and the Shaw Theatre, experiences that helped shape her passion for the arts.


Stacey went on to study performing arts at Chicken Shed and later attended and worked with Haringey Shed, teaching dance and drama and mentoring young people across Haringey and Enfield. She later qualified as a youth worker and continues to support young people through her work, alongside Stacey McKnight Consultancy.


Thirteen years ago, Stacey's passion for the arts inspired her to open her own performing arts school. What began as a love for dance has grown into Steppaz — a community supporting thousands of young people through dance, performing arts, confidence-building, discipline, leadership and personal development.


For Stacey, Steppaz has always been about more than dance. It is about creating opportunities, building confidence, developing life skills and helping young people believe in their potential.


Today, she continues to lead Steppaz CIC with the same vision: **to create opportunities, spark creativity and empower young people to follow their dreams, one step at a time.**



OUR MISSION

Our mission is to create safe, inclusive and inspiring opportunities where children and young people can develop their confidence, creativity, skills and aspirations.

Through dance, performing arts, mentoring, leadership and community programmes, we support young people to express themselves, discover their strengths and take positive steps towards their future.


OUR VISION

FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS, ONE STEP AT A TIME.

We want every young person to believe in their potential and feel supported to pursue their dreams.

Our vision is to build a community where young people feel seen, valued, encouraged and empowered to take their next step.


OUR VALUES

STEPPAZ A SAFE PLACE FOR ALL TO THRIVE

S - Strive for growth & discipline

T - Teamwork & trust as the foundation 

E - Elevate & Empower your skills and self

P - Persevere through challenges 

P - Passion fuels your talent 

A - Accountability: Aspire to inspire 

Z - Zero limits to success 



OUR COMMUNITY

Steppaz works with children and young people from diverse backgrounds, creating opportunities for them to connect, build relationships, develop skills and experience positive opportunities.

We are proud to support young people from the Black community while remaining welcoming and inclusive of children and young people from all ethnic backgrounds.

Our programmes aim to create spaces where young people can feel comfortable being themselves, explore their creativity, develop their confidence and build positive relationships.

We believe that a strong community is created when young people, families, staff, volunteers, partners and supporters come together.


OUR JOURNEY CONTINUES

Steppaz has always been about more than dance.

It is about the young people who walk through our doors, the families who support them, the teachers who guide them and the community that continues to grow around us.

As Steppaz CIC, we are building on our history while looking towards the future, creating even more opportunities for young people to learn, perform, lead, connect and thrive.

2013 → 2026 → THE JOURNEY CONTINUES

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EXPLORE OUR IMPACT

THE TEAM


STACEY McKNIGHT

Meet Stacey McKnight, Founder of Steppaz


Stacey grew up in Edmonton, where she developed a love for dance and drama. She studied performing arts at Chickenshed and later taught and mentored young people with Haringey Shed.


A qualified youth worker, Stacey founded Steppaz in 2013 to give young people a place to express themselves, build confidence and follow their dreams.


“I want every young person who walks through our doors to believe in what they can achieve — one step at a time.”

TANYA WILLIAMS-GRIFFITH

Tanya WG  is the co-owner of Steppaz Talent Agency, where she is dedicated to supporting and representing talent in the performing arts industry. With a deep-rooted passion for helping artists thrive, Tanya plays a vital role in creating opportunities and guiding performers as they work toward their goals. Her hands-on approach and extensive industry knowledge make her a powerful advocate for the talent she represents.

 

Before co-founding Steppaz Talent Agency, Tanya worked alongside Stacey as the Parent Liaison Officer at Steppaz Performing Arts School for over 10 years. In this role, she served as a vital bridge between parents and management, always offering a calm, caring, and compassionate presence that families could rely on.

 

In addition to her work in the arts, Tanya has spent the past decade as a devoted foster carer, providing a nurturing and inclusive home environment for both able-bodied and disabled children—from birth through to adolescence and young adulthood. Her commitment to care, inclusion, and support is evident in every aspect of her personal and professional life.

 

At Steppaz Talent Agency, Tanya is especially passionate about championing diverse talent and helping performers build sustainable, meaningful careers. Her unwavering dedication ensures that each artist receives the guidance, recognition, and opportunities they deserve.

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


NIKKI, CHANTEL & MARSHA

Meet the Parent Support Team

Our Parent Support Team brings Steppaz families together and makes sure parents and carers have a voice in our community. They help welcome new families, share ideas and create opportunities for parents to connect, support one another and get involved.

Working alongside the Steppaz team, they help us build a space where every family feels heard, included and valued.

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.

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.

VYRETTA DADSON


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TEEYAH CUNINGHAM

Hello, my name is Teéyah Reneé. I have been dancing since the age of three and joined Steppaz in 2019. Since joining, I have become part of the Elite Competition Team, where I have had the opportunity to travel to the Netherlands, Alton Towers and various street dance competitions across the country. Throughout my journey, I have won many trophies both as part of the competition team and as a solo competitor.

I was also chosen to take part in the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, which was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and an experience I will never forget.

Steppaz is like my second family. Everyone is kind, friendly and supportive of one another. Over the years, I have grown not only as a dancer but also as an individual. Steppaz has helped me become more confident, develop new skills and push myself out of my comfort zone.

I feel truly honoured to have been chosen as a Steppaz Ambassador and to have now progressed to Lead Ambassador and Dance Teacher. Taking on these roles is a huge achievement for me, and I understand that they come with great responsibility, dedication and hard work. I am excited to be able to inspire and support younger dancers, share my passion for dance and help others grow in the same way Steppaz has helped me.

I am extremely grateful for all the opportunities, experiences and memories Steppaz has given me so far, and I look forward to continuing to grow, take on new challenges and give back to the organisation that has become my second family. Thank you, Steppaz, for believing in me and giving me these amazing opportunities!


DEMISHA DAKOTAA


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JAYSON MANKENDA


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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.

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.

AMBER PHILLIP-CROSS



STEPPAZ STAFF

ALISHA BASSEY

Hi, my name is Alisha. I started Steppaz in 2015 with my niece, who was already attending. After 10 years, at 18, I wanted to gain work experience with my amazing auntie, Stacey, so I decided to join the team. 


Through this work experience, I am hoping to build more confidence as I start my journey in performing arts, while also learning essential life skills that I can carry with me in the future. I am excited to embrace the challenges, grow as an individual, and contribute to Steppaz’s success in any way I can!

KEMO

Hi my name is Kemo, and I’m 16 years old. I’m excited to be given the opportunity to do work experience at Steppaz as I am passionate about learning and growing in the dance industry and Steppaz is the best place to be for that.I also have experience with helping a social media team and would like to apply that to Steppaz.I’m confident in looking forward to learning and gaining valuable experience during my time here at steppaz and I hope to meet a lot more young people in the coming future.


STEPPAZ YOUTH AMBASSDORS

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. 



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