So, I started dancing at the age of 4, and to this day, I haven’t stopped!  Dancing and being on stage has always made me feel alive—like I could take on the world.  It filled me with joy, confidence, and a great sense of accomplishment.  There’s just something about performing in front of an audience that’s, as the kids say, ‘lit’—well, I think they still say that! 😂

A pivotal moment for me was attending Summerstage years ago in Central Park.  Watching the performers and show creators sparked something inside me.  I actually thought, 'I could host my own show someday, featuring talented young kids.  The idea stuck with me, but I procrastinated for years, mostly out of fear. 

Finally, in 2009, I took a leap and put on my very first 'SYS' show at the Harlem School of the Arts Theater.  Running that first show was a huge learning curve.  I was the director, host, and everything in between—holding auditions, advertising, spreading the word, renting rehearsal spaces, working tirelessly on building a website, making endless phone calls, and managing every single detail all by myself.  I was so nervous to host my first annual show that I ended up delaying the start by about 20 minutes!  I was practically shaking, and literally praying to God over and over for the strength to pull off everything I had worked so hard to make happen.  Lord knows I talk a lot but hosting a show is very different! Lol.  But despite all of that, I successfully pulled through, 17 incredible kids took the stage, and we made it 'SYS' happen.

Fast forward, and while I’m still not perfect and still get the occasional butterflies, I’m much more confident and comfortable now.  Along this journey, I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many talented young people and playing a part in their growth, alongside the amazing support of their parents, managers, teachers, coaches, mentors, and sponsors - THANK YOU!❤️ 

Why am a telling you this?  I am sharing my story to encourage you because I never imagined I’d be capable of this.  If there’s something your spirit won’t let you forget, it’s worth pursuing.  It won’t be easy, but if you love it, and with hard work, and determination, it will come to life.  I love watching our youth 'strut their stuff,' and I’m excited to keep doing this for more years to come.  

Now, enough about me!  Let’s get ready for our 11th Annual 'Strut Ya Stuff' Talent Contest for Kids!