Elizabeth Lahav

Founder & CEO

I founded Streetz Ahead in 1995 to create a space where kids could dance freely, without the pressures I faced in traditional classes. Growing up, I loved to dance, but the leotards, strict hairstyles, and competitiveness nearly killed that passion. By 25, I wanted to do things differently, so I started local dance clubs in Tottenham. After a standout performance at a Wood Green mall, I knew we had something special. With the support of my husband Harry, Streetz Ahead now offers mentoring, creative therapies, theatre, and staff training. We believe it takes a village to raise a child. Through a holistic approach, we help children find their voice, build confidence, and shape their futures.

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!

Taylor Agarrat

Head of Dance & BASE Mentor

Hi, I’m Taylor! My dance journey started young with Street Dance, and I’ve since added Contemporary and Ballet to my repertoire. I absolutely love performing, whether it’s starring in pantomimes, dancing in music videos, or hitting the road with LIFT. At Streetz Ahead, I’ve had the chance to dive deep into choreography, which has been a thrilling ride.

I graduated with a degree in choreography and had the exciting opportunity to dance on a BBC show, leading to promotions on BBC social media and spots in national adverts. I’m passionate about blending creativity with technique and can’t wait to keep pushing boundaries in dance and performance.

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

BASE Mental Health Lead

Hi, I’m Will! I’m 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

My journey began with a passion for dance and gymnastics, which led me to train as an ISTD and British Gymnastics teacher. I’ve taught at various dance academies and schools, focusing on using creative interventions to support those with social and emotional mental health needs.

I’ve completed my MA in Dance Movement Psychotherapy. My dedication to ongoing learning and professional growth helps me deliver person-centred wellbeing mentoring to both young people and adults. My goal is to ensure everyone I work with feels supported and empowered.

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.

Arlene Nwachukwu

Play Specialist

Hi, I’m Arlene! My dance journey kicked off at the tender age of 2 and a half with my first ballet class at Brenda Keys School of Dance. I went on to dive deep into the world of performing arts at the Bodywork Company in Cambridge, where I snagged a Level 6 Diploma.

Over the years, I’ve danced and choreographed for awesome artists like Max Marlow and Kat Penkin, and lit up stages at Pride UK, Black Pride UK, and Move It. I’m passionate about sparking creativity in kids through dance, boosting their confidence, and having a blast while working together as a team. Let’s dance and dream big!

Catrin Essery

Play Specialist

 

Ebony Robinson

Dance Teacher, BASE Mentor, Play Specialist

Hey there! I’m Ebony Robinson. I kicked off my dance adventure with commercial and hip-hop moves before diving into full-time study at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Dance, where I expanded my repertoire to include ballet, jazz, and contemporary techniques.

I’ve had the incredible opportunity to work with a mix of artists, including Marcus Jarrell Williams, Jgrrey, Jona Dance, V V Brown, Little Sims, Kloe Dean, Joseph Toonga, and Fubunation. I have a passion for promoting diversity in dance and fostering positive, creative environments where everyone can thrive. Let’s dance, create, and express ourselves together!

Hoi Ching Leung

Dance Movement Psychotherapist & 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 in-patient mental health services, the NHS and charities.

At Streetz Ahead, I provide creative therapy in schools as well as working behind the scenes on operations and HR. 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 Harry

BASE Mentor

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.

Katie Stafford Robberts

Dance Teacher

Hey, I’m Katie. My dance journey began when I danced along to all the pieces in Strictly! After that I built my way up through ballet and modern styles, contemporary and Hip-Hop / Street Dance. I gained my degree in Contemporary dance at Trinity Laban. I’ve been very lucky to work with many different choreographers and artists along the way such as: Vicky Ibokwe, Protima Chatterjee, Fatima Robinson and Takeshi Matsumoto and I am training with BoyBlue. The best bit about all my training is that I get to pass it on when I teach! I love seeing students grow and thrive with the confidence and expression that dance gives them. 

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.

Kyle Harris

BASE Mentor & Dance Teacher

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

Meryem Kakayeva

BASE Teaching Assistant

I am Meryem, a BASE TA. I love meaningful conversations, mango and matcha.

My journey began with a beloved personal mentor that helped me through my academic struggles whilst also supporting my personal, mental and spiritual development. Over the years I realise the importance and impact of having a mentor to look up to in my life, and how she helped me discover who Meryem is and what Meryem loves. This ignited my journey into supporting children’s emotional social and mental health needs, through my current role as a teaching assistant, helping children around me build resilience whilst creating a comforting environment.

Mya Delisser

Dance Teacher

I am passionate about guiding children through the expressive world of dance, where movement becomes a joyful journey of self-discovery. My classes are designed to enhance physical strength, coordination, and flexibility, while also fostering creativity, confidence, and emotional expression all within a supportive and dynamic environment.

Sebastian Harry

BASE Mentor, Dance Teacher & Music Producer

 

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

 

Teyhana Harridon

BASE Teaching Assistant & Dance Assistant