Elizabeth Lahav
Founder & CEO
Growing up, I always wanted to be a dancer. I had an overactive mind, always inventing and designing things, and when I moved to Tottenham at 14, school didn’t quite work for me. I left with just two GCSEs. After theatre school and a few years working in offices, I quickly realised that sitting behind a desk wasn’t where I belonged. I returned to my passion, completing a Dance and Education degree with First Class Honours.
While raising four children, I balanced life as a music co-ordinator and part-time Streetz Ahead founder. Once my children were in full-time education, I dedicated myself fully to the charity. During lockdown, I recognised the growing importance of mental health and began a Master’s in Dance Movement Psychotherapy to deepen my understanding of emotional well-being.
Today, as CEO of Streetz Ahead, I lead programmes that blend dance, mentoring, and creative therapy to help young people build confidence and resilience. I also run group and 1:1 therapy sessions both through Streetz Ahead and at a local mental health hospital. My journey has been about turning challenges into movement, helping others find their rhythm, voice, and sense of belonging through dance.
Alan Harry
Executive and Programme Director
Hi, I’m Harry! My journey with the charity began way back in 1998 as a dance teacher, offering free dance sessions to schools across Haringey. It wasn’t long before I found myself also in charge of music and DJing for our shows and events! I transitioned into a Learning mentor, and eventually, a primary school teacher, working with children with complex needs and setting up behavioural departments in Haringey schools.
I stepped into the role of Programme Director in early 2024 to run our BASE and Dance Giants programmes, while also training and mentoring both staff and children. It’s been a wild ride, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!
Stavrianna Theodorou
Dance Giants Coordinator
Hi there! I’m Stavrianna, and I’m absolutely buzzing to be the Dance Giants Coordinator for Streetz Ahead! With my roots in pantomimes, dance shows, and street dance competitions, I’ve had the pleasure of leading street dance teams and organising some pretty epic competitions.
Plus, I’m a proud graduate in dance practices and choreography. I bring my passion and experience to the team and help make our projects shine!
William Jones
Schools Development Officer
Hi, I’m Will! I am the schools development officer and am responsible for introducing BASE to local schools and organisations. I’m also a Drama Teacher, Theatre Practitioner, and Emerging Artist based in North London.
After graduating with First Class Honours in Inclusive Performance in 2023, I’ve been lucky enough to work in a variety of roles, from event coordinating to live theatre. Some highlights include performing at Wembley Stadium for the UEFA Cup Final opening act with Lenny Kravitz, and at the Royal Court Theatre in Katzenmusik. At Streetz Ahead, I am the BASE Mental Health Lead helping young people unlock their creativity and confidence through dance and performance.
Kimberley Marshall
School Mental Health & Wellbeing Coordinator, Dance Movement Psychotherapist
Hi, my name is Kimberley. I work both as a School Mental Health and Wellbeing Coordinator within BASE and as a registered Dance Movement Psychotherapist (RDMP). In my role as a coordinator, I support young people across Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 through social and emotional learning and mentoring. I also work closely with parents and carers, the wider school community, and external agencies to promote and strengthen overall wellbeing.
Alongside this, in my role as a DMP, I provide both one-to-one and group Dance Movement Psychotherapy sessions. I am passionate about using DMP as a creative therapeutic approach, particularly when supporting individuals who have experienced trauma or are facing mental health challenges. I value how this approach offers a non-verbal, embodied form of expression, enabling individuals to safely explore and process their experiences within a supportive and contained environment.
I am also trained as a BodyMind Approach Facilitator for medically unexplained symptoms. I draw on this training to support adults I work with who experience chronic pain, using a holistic, body-mind approach to help them better understand and manage their symptoms.
Aimee Berry
Dance Teacher
Hi! I’m Aimee, I’m a dance performer, choreographer, and teacher with a degree in Dance Performance. My journey began as a self-taught dancer, learning from music videos, before pursuing formal training from the age of 16. I trained in street dance and later expanded into styles including Afro and contemporary.
I have performed at venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and at various charity and fundraising events. I am passionate about creating, performing, and teaching, with a strong focus on building confidence and helping individuals express themselves freely through movement.
Alexandra Palton
BASE Teaching Assistant & Mentor
Hi, my name is Alex! I have deep appreciation for art in all its forms, from twirling through ballet and drama classes, doodling on worksheets, and singing around the house. That creativity has shaped how I connect with others. I’ve worked in community settings leading craft sessions for young people and people experiencing homelessness. I have also supported asylum seekers and older adults with accessing benefits, financial support and joining peer-led sessions, like cooking classes run by local mums. I love working with a team that helps young people flourish creatively and navigate the world with confidence.
Anna Palmujoki
Dance Teacher
A passionate Dance Fitness Instructor with over 10 years’ experience, combining movement, music and creativity to build confidence and wellbeing. Alongside teaching dance within school PE, I support Key Stage 2 children, including those with additional educational needs. My approach is positive, inclusive and encouraging, adapting sessions so everyone can participate, express themselves and develop coordination, creativity and confidence in a safe, enjoyable and empowering environment.
Eliza Liebowitz
Dance Teacher
I have been involved with Streetz Ahead for a decade. I started at 6 years old and took part in dance classes at my primary school. I have always loved to dance and have enjoyed performing in many shows. In addition to street dance I have also learnt different styles of Latin and ballroom dancing. I love to help young people learn new skills and grow their confidence – and I particularly like to see their smiling faces after a show.
Hoi Ching Leung
Dance Movement Psychotherapist, BASE Mentor & Arts Administrator
Hi, I’m Hoi! I’m a Licensed Dance Movement Psychotherapist, with experience supporting individuals in care homes, mainstream and specialist schools, SEN young people, adult mental health services, the NHS and charities.
At Streetz Ahead, I provide creative therapy and mentoring in schools as well as working behind the scenes administratively. I’m also a passionate Hip Hop dance practitioner. My goal is to create spaces where people can express themselves, connect, and find healing through dance and creative modalities.
Joshua Nash
Dance Teacher
My journey into the dance field started from a very young age. My mum would often record concerts of various artists which I would then watch over and over to copy the different moves of the backup dancers. In secondary school, I met some like-minded friends, and we formed a dance crew. I moved onto other styles like popping, house, hip-hop and Krump.
At Kingston University in 2014, I joined hip hop theatre company, “Far From The Norm”. I had the privilege of touring both nationally and internationally. This has without a doubt, deepen my love for dance in all its forms and functions.
Kajal Rawat
BASE Mentor
Hey I am Kajal! A licensed Dance Movement Psychotherapist, choreographer/performer, and dance instructor. I have worked across primary school settings, offering group and one-to-one creative therapy sessions, and have experience supporting children and young people with SEN both therapeutically and within inclusive dance environments. My practice also includes work with adults with learning disabilities and mental health needs, adults living with Parkinson’s, and older adults in care home settings, including delivering Hip Hop-based movement sessions for the elderly. With a background in the Bollywood industry as a dancer and assistant choreographer, I bring a creative, culturally responsive client centered approach to my therapeutic work.
Kamran Rasheed
Accountant & Finance Manager
Hi, I’m Kamran Rasheed, the Finance Manager who ensures our financial stability with precision and a strategic mindset. I’m passionate about keeping our numbers on point and making sure everything runs smoothly.
When I’m not crunching numbers, you’ll find me hitting the gym! I’m also an avid traveller and a bookworm. With my blend of financial savvy, dedication to fitness, and love for adventure, I bring a dynamic and balanced approach to both my work and my personal life.
Kayla Daley
BASE Mentor & Dance Teacher (Intern)
Hi! I’m Kayla, an English Graduate with a passion for all things dance! My love for dance began at a young age and quickly became a space where I could build confidence and have fun whilst doing it. I am a versatile dancer, trained in Hip-Hop/street, ballet, tap and contemporary. I hope that as a mentor and dance teacher I can provide a space for young people to explore their potential and feel free to express themselves creatively.
Leigha Fearon
BASE Mentor
Hi, I’m Leigha! I’m a creative practitioner, wellness instructor, and BASE mentor with a deep love for the arts, culture, and food as powerful ways to bring people together. I work with children through art play, creative yoga, movement, and mindfulness, using creative and embodied practices to support emotional wellbeing, confidence, and physical health.
My work sits at the intersection of creativity and care. I’m passionate about creating spaces where young people can move, make, play, and express themselves freely. Having worked across schools, charities, and community arts projects, I bring energy, curiosity, and compassion into everything I do. I believe that when creativity, movement, and joy are centred, young people thrive.
Lydia Stockbridge
Bid Writer & Fundraiser
Hi, I’m Lydia! I make fundraising a fun adventure, helping artists and arts charities achieve their dreams. With a passion for storytelling and a background in writing, I create compelling narratives for every funding application.
Previously a music promoter, I’ve booked bands from around the world. Now, I channel that love for storytelling and detail into turning dreams into reality through my work.
Explore more: Lydia’s Website Follow me on Instagram: @l.l.i.d.s
Niki Chizero
Mentoring Support Assistant
Hi, I’m Nicollette! I’m a Mentor Support Assistant with a background in education and childcare, supporting children and young people across schools and learning settings. I’ve worked closely with young people with a range of needs, including SEND, and I really enjoy building positive, trusting relationships and offering consistent support.
I’m passionate about mentoring because I love helping young people feel confident, heard and supported. I’m a creative person and enjoy listening to music, colouring and making art, which I often use as a way to connect and help young people feel comfortable being themselves. I’m excited to be part of Streetz Ahead and to support the amazing work they do with young people.
Rosalie Rotibi
Dance Teacher
Hey, I’m Rosie! I’m a dancer, choreographer and general creative. I found my love for dance through Hip-Hop classes at school, going on to train with the RAD’s StepIntoDance Street Company. Later, I began practising and exploring my dance artistry whilst training in various London based dance crews and cross-training in ballet and commercial.
My classes are all about unlocking creativity, building confidence, community and developing your mind-body connection, all in a supportive, fun environment.
Sade McNichols-Thomas
Dance Teacher
Hi, I’m Sade! I’m a dancer and choreographer studying Creative Arts and Humanities at UCL. I specialise in hip hop, popping and waving, with influences from tutting, house, breaking and jazz. I’ve performed and choreographed award-winning pieces across the UK, including Leeds, York, Reading and London, while training with established London dancers and connecting with various dance and freestyle communities. My classes encourage creativity, self-expression and confidence, creating a joyful, open space to experiment, connect and explore movement while embracing the roots of hip hop.
Sarah Louaka
Dance Teacher
My name is Sarah Louaka (she/her) and I’m a performer from London. I graduated from London Studio Centre with a First-Class Honours Degree in Theatre Dance. I trained at the Alvin Ailey summer intensive based in New York, USA and it was truly a life- changing experience. I was inspired by the dedication, work-ethic and techniques learned. A future goal is to perform in a musical production either in the UK or on an international stage, pursuing my dreams of contributing to the beautiful art of dance/theatre world. I also have 4+ years of teaching experience, which has shaped a strong passion for supporting dancers and building their confidence.
Sebastian Harry
Dance Artist | Choreographer | Teacher | Music Producer & Composer
Sebastian Harry is a professional hip-hop dance artist, choreographer, teacher and music producer. A former Matilda the Musical performer and BRIT School graduate, he has trained with ZooNation and NYDC and performed with Little Simz and Far From The Norm. Sebastian also teaches young dancers and creates original music, including composing and producing the soundtrack for Streetz Ahead’s Jade and the Beanstalk.
Seréece Martin
Dance Teacher
I’m a versatile dance artist and educator with a professional background of teaching, performing, and mentoring across the UK. I began my training in North London, earned a scholarship to Italia Conti, and completed my studies at Addict Dance Academy with a degree in Professional Dance. My performance credits include appearances on BBC, CBBC, and Channel 4, performing with legendary ’90s group MN8, Kule T, as well as artists like Dizzee Rascal, Enny, and more. I have taught students from ages 3 to 50, across all levels and style, including commercial, street, jazz, ballet, and contemporary always creating an inspiring and inclusive space.
Shackyrah Somers
BASE Teaching Assistant
Tara Suntokeesing
BASE Mentor
Hey, I’m Tara. As a child, family gatherings significantly influenced my upbringing through dance and music, which shaped a landscape of emotion and expression. I was inspired by the connection between people on the dance floor and the freedom to feel through movement. I collaborated with my peers at school to share international dance styles at cultural events and studied Drama and Theatre, while furthering professional training in: Indian Classical Khatak and Bharatanatyum dance and I volunteered with Child Line in Partnership with Schools – providing mentorship and a safe space for children to talk about bullying. Along my journey, I graduated with an LLB Law degree and worked for charities that supported children’s welfare in the UK and across Asia. I also I delved into other art forms of movement – performing as a poi dancer and practiced yoga and meditation. At Streetz Ahead, I support young children as a BASE mentor and a teaching assistant. My vision is to improve access to mental health facilities through creative outlets for youngsters and families – empowering people to thrive in life.
Teyhana Harridon
BASE Teaching Assistant & Dance Assistant
