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Our Leadership Team
Mike Taylor
Executive Director
Mike Taylor teaches spoken word to kids of all ages. He has performed on stages from San Francisco to London and he's led national poetry teams in competition. He founded the SPARC Poetry organization and continues to create workshops that connect to the youth from all walks of life.
Mike Taylor teaches spoken word to kids of all ages. He has performed on stages from San Francisco to London and he's led national poetry teams in competition. He founded the SPARC Poetry organization and continues to create workshops that connect to the youth from all walks of life.
Patrick Ohslund
Deputy Director
Jenna Robinson
Revisions Program Director
Bri Blue
Poetry Program Coordinator
Brianni “Bri” Blue is a published author, spoken word artist and motivational speaker from Berkeley, CA. Bri’s passionate and emotionally-charged performances allow her to connect with audiences through empathy, relatability and inspiration. She was the Founder and Host of the weekly “Speak Easy” open mic series, and created the 'Unapologetically You' Awareness Campaign with a mission to uplift and empower women.
Brianni “Bri” Blue is a published author, spoken word artist and motivational speaker from Berkeley, CA. Bri’s passionate and emotionally-charged performances allow her to connect with audiences through empathy, relatability and inspiration. She was the Founder and Host of the weekly “Speak Easy” open mic series, and created the 'Unapologetically You' Awareness Campaign with a mission to uplift and empower women.
Tim McClain
Dance Program Coordinator
Tim McLain-Batimana is a professional breakdancer, who began dancing at age 12 as a therapeutic response from being in the foster care system and is deeply rooted in the Bay Area Urban dance community. He began teaching professionally in 2017, with children, and adults. As an instructor Timothy has collaborated with local dance troupes to produce showcases for students to perform in front of school staff, and parents. As the BAC dance program coordinator he is responsible for project managing, team management, curriculum development, teaching workshops and outreach.
Tim McLain-Batimana is a professional breakdancer, who began dancing at age 12 as a therapeutic response from being in the foster care system and is deeply rooted in the Bay Area Urban dance community. He began teaching professionally in 2017, with children, and adults. As an instructor Timothy has collaborated with local dance troupes to produce showcases for students to perform in front of school staff, and parents. As the BAC dance program coordinator he is responsible for project managing, team management, curriculum development, teaching workshops and outreach.
Briana Leung
Pacifica Poetry Coordinator
Briana Victoria Leung is a 21 y/o Bay Area based queer non-binary Afro Asian Latinx storyteller and healer who has been writing, performing and competing in the local slam poetry scene for the last eight years. They are an artist and activist who often integrates these two identities into one as an “artivist” when exploring political and social issues through writing. Briana represented the Bay Area on an all BIPOC femme team during the 2018 Brave New Voice National Poetry Competition in Houston,Texas. Today they can be found working as a poet mentor teaching youth poetry workshops with Bay Area Creative's SPARC Poetry program, which is the same program that initially introduced Briana to poetry in elementary school.
Briana Victoria Leung is a 21 y/o Bay Area based queer non-binary Afro Asian Latinx storyteller and healer who has been writing, performing and competing in the local slam poetry scene for the last eight years. They are an artist and activist who often integrates these two identities into one as an “artivist” when exploring political and social issues through writing. Briana represented the Bay Area on an all BIPOC femme team during the 2018 Brave New Voice National Poetry Competition in Houston,Texas. Today they can be found working as a poet mentor teaching youth poetry workshops with Bay Area Creative's SPARC Poetry program, which is the same program that initially introduced Briana to poetry in elementary school.
Our Board
Jason Bayoni
Board Member
Jason Bayani is the author of Locus (Omnidawn Publishing 2019, Norcal Book Award finalist) and Amulet (Write Bloody Publishing 2013). He's an MFA graduate from Saint Mary's College and is the co-director of Kearny Street Workshop, the oldest multi-disciplinary Asian Pacific American arts organization in the country. His publishing credits include World Literature Today, Lantern Review, and other publications. Jason is the recipient of the 2021 California Arts Council Established artist fellowship and is a featured artist for the Consortium of Asian American Theaters and Artists Festival in 2022. He performs regularly around the country and debuted his solo theater show "Locus of Control" in 2016 with theatrical runs in San Francisco, New York, and Austin.
Jason Bayani is the author of Locus (Omnidawn Publishing 2019, Norcal Book Award finalist) and Amulet (Write Bloody Publishing 2013). He's an MFA graduate from Saint Mary's College and is the co-director of Kearny Street Workshop, the oldest multi-disciplinary Asian Pacific American arts organization in the country. His publishing credits include World Literature Today, Lantern Review, and other publications. Jason is the recipient of the 2021 California Arts Council Established artist fellowship and is a featured artist for the Consortium of Asian American Theaters and Artists Festival in 2022. He performs regularly around the country and debuted his solo theater show "Locus of Control" in 2016 with theatrical runs in San Francisco, New York, and Austin.
Katie Whitcraft
Board Chair Bio...
Katie Whitcraft is the COO of Foundry 415 Innovation Group, San Francisco’s premier innovation hub guiding global businesses and startups through customized innovation services. Foundry 415 provides the network, resources and guidance necessary for successful innovation ecosystems around the world. Through Foundry 415’s corporate innovation services, accelerator/incubator programs and executive education, our clients and partners are fueling their growth through innovation.
Katie has more than 15 years of experience in operations. Her expertise is focused on human resources strategy, financial analysis and forecasting, as well as the crossroads of technology and business efficiency.
Prior to her role at Foundry 415 Innovation Group, she was the General Manager of Circus Center and responsible for growing the budget of the small California nonprofit from <500K to 1.8M. She also served as the Director of Operations for Runway Innovation Hub lowering expenses over 2M during her tenure.
Katie is an advisor to organizations around the US in operational strategies and compliance. Notably Bay Area Creative (BAC), a BIPOC led, spoken word performance organization dedicated to underserved youth in the Bay Area. Katie also founded and operates a film production company, Troubleshoot Productions with her partner Colin Johnson.
Katie is based in San Francisco and enjoys spending her free time running (recently finishing the New York City Marathon), painting and playing with her rambunctious dog.
Katie Whitcraft is the COO of Foundry 415 Innovation Group, San Francisco’s premier innovation hub guiding global businesses and startups through customized innovation services. Foundry 415 provides the network, resources and guidance necessary for successful innovation ecosystems around the world. Through Foundry 415’s corporate innovation services, accelerator/incubator programs and executive education, our clients and partners are fueling their growth through innovation.
Katie has more than 15 years of experience in operations. Her expertise is focused on human resources strategy, financial analysis and forecasting, as well as the crossroads of technology and business efficiency.
Prior to her role at Foundry 415 Innovation Group, she was the General Manager of Circus Center and responsible for growing the budget of the small California nonprofit from <500K to 1.8M. She also served as the Director of Operations for Runway Innovation Hub lowering expenses over 2M during her tenure.
Katie is an advisor to organizations around the US in operational strategies and compliance. Notably Bay Area Creative (BAC), a BIPOC led, spoken word performance organization dedicated to underserved youth in the Bay Area. Katie also founded and operates a film production company, Troubleshoot Productions with her partner Colin Johnson.
Katie is based in San Francisco and enjoys spending her free time running (recently finishing the New York City Marathon), painting and playing with her rambunctious dog.
Kiely Corti, M.S.
Board Member
Kiely Corti, M.S., she/her, is an advocate for inclusivity and belonging, who strives to build bridges that empower positive change for underrepresented communities. Currently, she is the Competitive Grants Manager at Oregon’s Apprenticeship and Training Division, where she oversees million-dollar state-wide workforce investments, that support the dismantling of systemic and structural barriers related to post-secondary education pathways. Kiely has over 15 years of non-profit experience that supports the advancement of programmatic development. Through strategic planning and expansion, she works directly with community organizations, like Bay Area Creative, to impact the lives of people served, that provide life-changing, holistic opportunities. When Kiely is not working with community organizations, she spends her time being with her family, traveling, gardening, and acting as a local Girl Scout Leader.
Kiely Corti, M.S., she/her, is an advocate for inclusivity and belonging, who strives to build bridges that empower positive change for underrepresented communities. Currently, she is the Competitive Grants Manager at Oregon’s Apprenticeship and Training Division, where she oversees million-dollar state-wide workforce investments, that support the dismantling of systemic and structural barriers related to post-secondary education pathways. Kiely has over 15 years of non-profit experience that supports the advancement of programmatic development. Through strategic planning and expansion, she works directly with community organizations, like Bay Area Creative, to impact the lives of people served, that provide life-changing, holistic opportunities. When Kiely is not working with community organizations, she spends her time being with her family, traveling, gardening, and acting as a local Girl Scout Leader.
Kelly Mendez Dimond
Board Member
Expert in client development strategy and strategic communications with 14+ years of experience at leading firms working on 700+ proposals from pre-proposal through final presentation for opportunities with Fortune 500 companies across a wide array of industries. I am a strategist and coach working with client service teams to create engaging client experiences to build relationships, demonstrate value, and differentiate in the market.
As a first-generation Latina college graduate from UCLA with a Bachelor’s degree in English, I have always had a deep passion for both reading and writing. From my family, culture, and the working world at large, I was told a degree in English would not lead to success, but I have personally experienced the power of language and built my career on harnessing creative and strategic communications. I have spent the last 14 years working for organizations such as Deloitte and McKinsey & Company coaching teams on and creating impactful client communications. From developing and facilitating Partner-level training on storytelling to leading change communications through transformation to coaching client development strategy and taking pen to creative assets for multimillion dollar proposals, I have a wide range of relevant skills. In terms of volunteer background, I have held associate board positions with two organizations, including one focused on literacy, and have experience in fundraising, event planning, and outreach communications.
Expert in client development strategy and strategic communications with 14+ years of experience at leading firms working on 700+ proposals from pre-proposal through final presentation for opportunities with Fortune 500 companies across a wide array of industries. I am a strategist and coach working with client service teams to create engaging client experiences to build relationships, demonstrate value, and differentiate in the market.
As a first-generation Latina college graduate from UCLA with a Bachelor’s degree in English, I have always had a deep passion for both reading and writing. From my family, culture, and the working world at large, I was told a degree in English would not lead to success, but I have personally experienced the power of language and built my career on harnessing creative and strategic communications. I have spent the last 14 years working for organizations such as Deloitte and McKinsey & Company coaching teams on and creating impactful client communications. From developing and facilitating Partner-level training on storytelling to leading change communications through transformation to coaching client development strategy and taking pen to creative assets for multimillion dollar proposals, I have a wide range of relevant skills. In terms of volunteer background, I have held associate board positions with two organizations, including one focused on literacy, and have experience in fundraising, event planning, and outreach communications.
Jamie DeWolf
Jamie DeWolf is an American slam poet, film director, writer, spoken word artist, and circus ringmaster from Oakland, California.[1]
DeWolf is best known for his early career as a slam poetry champion, his award-winning films for Youth Speaks Bigger Picture Project, live tours with the performance trio The Suicide Kings, hosting the monthly Tourettes Without Regrets at the Oakland Metro OperaHouse, and for his work as a producer and performer on NPR's Snap Judgment.
DeWolf is best known for his early career as a slam poetry champion, his award-winning films for Youth Speaks Bigger Picture Project, live tours with the performance trio The Suicide Kings, hosting the monthly Tourettes Without Regrets at the Oakland Metro OperaHouse, and for his work as a producer and performer on NPR's Snap Judgment.
Darlene Mann
Board Member
Darlene joined the Bay Area Creative board in 2024 after retiring from a 40-year career in the tech
sector. Highlights across her career including serving as the first product planning manager for Lotus
Notes, the first broadly adopted collaboration platform; founding VP Marketing of BroadVision, an early
leader in eCommerce; General Partner at ONSET Ventures, investing in software and internet
businesses; CEO of Siperian, a big data company (acquired, NASDAQ: INFA); and COO of StreetLight Inc.,
a big data platform for mobility analytics (acquired, (NYSE: J). She has served on multiple corporate and
non-profit boards, including co-founding the Pacifica Education Foundation that supports the K-8
Pacifica School District. In addition to enjoying her family, cooking, reading, travel, and water sports,
Darlene is passionate about education, the arts, and supporting positive change locally and nationally.
Darlene joined the Bay Area Creative board in 2024 after retiring from a 40-year career in the tech
sector. Highlights across her career including serving as the first product planning manager for Lotus
Notes, the first broadly adopted collaboration platform; founding VP Marketing of BroadVision, an early
leader in eCommerce; General Partner at ONSET Ventures, investing in software and internet
businesses; CEO of Siperian, a big data company (acquired, NASDAQ: INFA); and COO of StreetLight Inc.,
a big data platform for mobility analytics (acquired, (NYSE: J). She has served on multiple corporate and
non-profit boards, including co-founding the Pacifica Education Foundation that supports the K-8
Pacifica School District. In addition to enjoying her family, cooking, reading, travel, and water sports,
Darlene is passionate about education, the arts, and supporting positive change locally and nationally.
Marcus Scott, Esq.
Board Legal Advisor
Marcus Scott was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area of Northern California. Marcus earned his Bachelors of General Studies, in English, followed by a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology and Instructional Design from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana. Marcus came to New England to pursue his Juris Doctorate from Massachusetts School of Law with a concentration in Intellectual Property, and Media and Information Law. He then earned an LLM in Global Intellectual Property and Information Technology Law, from Suffolk University in Boston, MA. Marcus is Licensed in the State of Massachusetts and is focused on complex litigations, including focusing IP and Software matter, as well as Corporate and Domestic Litigation. Marcus’s practice experience includes the Federal District Court of Massachusetts as well as in the 1st Circuit Court of Appeals.
Marcus Scott was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area of Northern California. Marcus earned his Bachelors of General Studies, in English, followed by a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology and Instructional Design from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana. Marcus came to New England to pursue his Juris Doctorate from Massachusetts School of Law with a concentration in Intellectual Property, and Media and Information Law. He then earned an LLM in Global Intellectual Property and Information Technology Law, from Suffolk University in Boston, MA. Marcus is Licensed in the State of Massachusetts and is focused on complex litigations, including focusing IP and Software matter, as well as Corporate and Domestic Litigation. Marcus’s practice experience includes the Federal District Court of Massachusetts as well as in the 1st Circuit Court of Appeals.
Gloria Tse
Board Treasurer
Gloria Tse is dedicated and passionate about making a difference. Her outstanding communication skills, combined with a relentless commitment to her community, drive her success in business. With a strong background in leadership, consultative sales, and contract negotiation, Gloria strives to forge strategic partnerships and secure corporate sponsorships to support the vital work of nonprofits like Bay Area Creative. Her mission is to create a positive impact on the world through nonprofit work in her community. Gloria is a Bay Area native who likes to spend her downtime with her faithful pup and family; traveling, hiking, and biking.
Gloria Tse is dedicated and passionate about making a difference. Her outstanding communication skills, combined with a relentless commitment to her community, drive her success in business. With a strong background in leadership, consultative sales, and contract negotiation, Gloria strives to forge strategic partnerships and secure corporate sponsorships to support the vital work of nonprofits like Bay Area Creative. Her mission is to create a positive impact on the world through nonprofit work in her community. Gloria is a Bay Area native who likes to spend her downtime with her faithful pup and family; traveling, hiking, and biking.
Poetry & Theater Teaching Artists
Camila Aguilar
Teaching Artist Bio...
Camila Elizabet Aguirre Aguilar is a Xicana womxn, warrior, student, educator, and poet. Camila has slammed since the age of fourteen and competed in the 2017 National Poetry Slam on Team Oakland. For over a decade, she has workshopped performance poetry with underserved youth. As a bisexual womxn of color, Camila explores the intersections of power and poetry. Camila currently teaches spoken word workshops in the East Bay.
Camila Elizabet Aguirre Aguilar is a Xicana womxn, warrior, student, educator, and poet. Camila has slammed since the age of fourteen and competed in the 2017 National Poetry Slam on Team Oakland. For over a decade, she has workshopped performance poetry with underserved youth. As a bisexual womxn of color, Camila explores the intersections of power and poetry. Camila currently teaches spoken word workshops in the East Bay.
Elle Fardella
Teaching Artist Bio...
Isabelle Sept
Teaching Artist Bio...
Isabelle is a performing artist raised all over the Bay Area. An actress, Spoken word Poet, dancer, singer/songwriter, and live performer.
Isabelle is a vibrant creator using her varied artistic abilities to tell stories and evoke passion to viewers.
Building creatively free spaces for women and youth is a driving passion for Isabelle. In all versions of her art she aims to inspire change, growth, healing and spiritual freedom.
Isabelle is a performing artist raised all over the Bay Area. An actress, Spoken word Poet, dancer, singer/songwriter, and live performer.
Isabelle is a vibrant creator using her varied artistic abilities to tell stories and evoke passion to viewers.
Building creatively free spaces for women and youth is a driving passion for Isabelle. In all versions of her art she aims to inspire change, growth, healing and spiritual freedom.
Jackson Mcbrayer
Teaching Artist Bio...
Jackson McBrayer is a Bay Area stand-up comedian and poet dedicated to empowering young voices through his work with Bay Area Creative. Passionate about helping kids of all ages find their voice and build confidence, he brings humor and storytelling into spaces where self-expression thrives. Whether he's skydiving, crowd-surfing in his wheelchair, or performing on stage, Jackson embraces every moment with fearless joy. As he puts it, "There is a joy in living a life worth retelling."
Jackson McBrayer is a Bay Area stand-up comedian and poet dedicated to empowering young voices through his work with Bay Area Creative. Passionate about helping kids of all ages find their voice and build confidence, he brings humor and storytelling into spaces where self-expression thrives. Whether he's skydiving, crowd-surfing in his wheelchair, or performing on stage, Jackson embraces every moment with fearless joy. As he puts it, "There is a joy in living a life worth retelling."
Leslie Waggoner
Theater Teaching Artist Bio...
Leslie has been an active member of the Bay Area theatre community for over 20 years. She has performed, directed, choreographed and/or taught for the following companies: American Conservatory Theatre, AMTSJ, SF Playhouse, San Jose Stage, Magic Theatre, Ray of Light, Oasis, Hillbarn, ODC, 42nd St Moon, Pop Culture Immersives, Shakespeare Santa Cruz, SF Shakespeare, Bay Area Musicals, Berkeley Playhouse, Diablo Theatre, YMTC, Custom Made Theatre, and Killing My Lobster. She is a TBA, BATCC and Dean Goodman Award recipient, a Barbara Whitman Directing Award finalist, and a proud union member of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society (SDC).
Leslie has been an active member of the Bay Area theatre community for over 20 years. She has performed, directed, choreographed and/or taught for the following companies: American Conservatory Theatre, AMTSJ, SF Playhouse, San Jose Stage, Magic Theatre, Ray of Light, Oasis, Hillbarn, ODC, 42nd St Moon, Pop Culture Immersives, Shakespeare Santa Cruz, SF Shakespeare, Bay Area Musicals, Berkeley Playhouse, Diablo Theatre, YMTC, Custom Made Theatre, and Killing My Lobster. She is a TBA, BATCC and Dean Goodman Award recipient, a Barbara Whitman Directing Award finalist, and a proud union member of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society (SDC).
Mike McGee
Teaching Artist Bio...
Mighty Mike McGee stands as a distinctive voice in the world of spoken word poetry, weaving together humor, storytelling, and education with the threads of his rich life experiences. Born in the vibrant city of San José, California, Mike entered the world facing the challenges of Spina bifida, a neural tube defect that has undeniably shaped his life’s trajectory. This condition, far from slowing him down, has propelled him into becoming an ardent advocate for pursuing passions fervently and without delay.
McGee’s journey through the realms of poetry and performance began to gather significant momentum in the early 2000s, marked by his groundbreaking victories in the competitive poetry slam scene. In 2003, he clinched the National Poetry Slam Individual Grand Championship, a feat he complemented with the Individual World Poetry Slam Grand Championship in 2006, making him the first ever to hold both titles. These victories were not just personal triumphs but milestones that placed him firmly on the global poetry map.
Beyond the competitive stage, McGee has been a relentless traveler, sharing his unique blend of poetry and humor across the United States, Canada, and Europe. His performances, characterized by their heartfelt sincerity and infectious laughter, have spanned several hundred thousand miles since 2002. McGee’s talents have been showcased on prestigious platforms such as HBO’s Def Poetry Jam, CBC Radio and Television, and NPR’s Snap Judgment, underlining his appeal to a broad audience. His historical performance at the University of Paris, la Sorbonne, in 2005 marked him as one of the first Americans to bring spoken word to the iconic institution, further cementing his role as a pioneer in the field.
McGee’s literary contributions are encapsulated in his first collection of humor and poetry, “In Search of Midnight,” published by Write Bloody Publishing. His involvement with Poetry Center San José since 2016, including a stint on its board of directors, showcases his commitment to nurturing the poetic community in his hometown.
Appointed as the Poet Laureate of Santa Clara County for the years 2018 and 2019, McGee has not only celebrated but also significantly influenced the cultural landscape of his region. His passion for creating and curating spaces for art and expression has led him to produce, perform, and host an array of variety entertainment events throughout San José and Santa Clara County. These include the Oversocial Mofo Revue, San José Poetry Slam, Go Go Gone Show, and Live Lit Writers Open, as well as his leadership role as the San José Poetry Festival Director since 2021.
Mighty Mike McGee’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and community. His work transcends the boundaries of poetry and humor, serving as a beacon for those eager to find and follow their own paths. Through his art and his actions, McGee continues to inspire individuals to embrace their passions with urgency and joy, making an indelible mark on the world one word at a time.
Mighty Mike McGee stands as a distinctive voice in the world of spoken word poetry, weaving together humor, storytelling, and education with the threads of his rich life experiences. Born in the vibrant city of San José, California, Mike entered the world facing the challenges of Spina bifida, a neural tube defect that has undeniably shaped his life’s trajectory. This condition, far from slowing him down, has propelled him into becoming an ardent advocate for pursuing passions fervently and without delay.
McGee’s journey through the realms of poetry and performance began to gather significant momentum in the early 2000s, marked by his groundbreaking victories in the competitive poetry slam scene. In 2003, he clinched the National Poetry Slam Individual Grand Championship, a feat he complemented with the Individual World Poetry Slam Grand Championship in 2006, making him the first ever to hold both titles. These victories were not just personal triumphs but milestones that placed him firmly on the global poetry map.
Beyond the competitive stage, McGee has been a relentless traveler, sharing his unique blend of poetry and humor across the United States, Canada, and Europe. His performances, characterized by their heartfelt sincerity and infectious laughter, have spanned several hundred thousand miles since 2002. McGee’s talents have been showcased on prestigious platforms such as HBO’s Def Poetry Jam, CBC Radio and Television, and NPR’s Snap Judgment, underlining his appeal to a broad audience. His historical performance at the University of Paris, la Sorbonne, in 2005 marked him as one of the first Americans to bring spoken word to the iconic institution, further cementing his role as a pioneer in the field.
McGee’s literary contributions are encapsulated in his first collection of humor and poetry, “In Search of Midnight,” published by Write Bloody Publishing. His involvement with Poetry Center San José since 2016, including a stint on its board of directors, showcases his commitment to nurturing the poetic community in his hometown.
Appointed as the Poet Laureate of Santa Clara County for the years 2018 and 2019, McGee has not only celebrated but also significantly influenced the cultural landscape of his region. His passion for creating and curating spaces for art and expression has led him to produce, perform, and host an array of variety entertainment events throughout San José and Santa Clara County. These include the Oversocial Mofo Revue, San José Poetry Slam, Go Go Gone Show, and Live Lit Writers Open, as well as his leadership role as the San José Poetry Festival Director since 2021.
Mighty Mike McGee’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and community. His work transcends the boundaries of poetry and humor, serving as a beacon for those eager to find and follow their own paths. Through his art and his actions, McGee continues to inspire individuals to embrace their passions with urgency and joy, making an indelible mark on the world one word at a time.
PG Williams
Teaching Artist Bio...
PG, a Dynamic Spoken Word Artist, Dancer, Teacher, Life Coach, Model, Actor, and Author from Oakland. Known for his spectacular stage presence, personality and deep themes of evolution, love and dedication.
He shares his love of expression to motivate and inspire others to be uniquely the same.
PG, a Dynamic Spoken Word Artist, Dancer, Teacher, Life Coach, Model, Actor, and Author from Oakland. Known for his spectacular stage presence, personality and deep themes of evolution, love and dedication.
He shares his love of expression to motivate and inspire others to be uniquely the same.
Raimone "Ghost"
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"Sixfootah The Poet"
Teaching Artist Bio...
“Sixfootah ThePoet” Turner is an African American Oakland, CA native, and a lifelong Bay Area resident. Tasha’s poetry is a blend of passion, resilience and bold wordsmithing. On stage she aspires to use her talent and personal story to inspire young girls in her community to embrace their uniqueness and ignore negativity; reminding them that they are not alone in the world.
“Sixfootah ThePoet” Turner is an African American Oakland, CA native, and a lifelong Bay Area resident. Tasha’s poetry is a blend of passion, resilience and bold wordsmithing. On stage she aspires to use her talent and personal story to inspire young girls in her community to embrace their uniqueness and ignore negativity; reminding them that they are not alone in the world.
Jaz Sufi
Teaching Artist Bio...
Jaz Sufi (she/hers) is a queer Iranian-American poet and arts educator. She is a National Poetry Slam finalist and has received fellowships from Kundiman, the Watering Hole, and New York University, where she received her MFA. Her work has been published or is upcoming in the Adroit Journal, AGNI, Black Warrior Review, Colorado Review, Muzzle, and elsewhere. She lives between the Bay Area and Brooklyn with her dog, Apollo.
Jaz Sufi (she/hers) is a queer Iranian-American poet and arts educator. She is a National Poetry Slam finalist and has received fellowships from Kundiman, the Watering Hole, and New York University, where she received her MFA. Her work has been published or is upcoming in the Adroit Journal, AGNI, Black Warrior Review, Colorado Review, Muzzle, and elsewhere. She lives between the Bay Area and Brooklyn with her dog, Apollo.
Tino Vazquez
Teaching Artist Bio...
Tino V. H. Jr. is a Mexican-American spoken word poet and organizer born and raised in Oakland, CA. He has performed with the UCSC CUPSI slam team and the Legendary Collective in Santa Cruz. His work explores im/migration, indigeneity, the hood, queerness, feminism, and decolonial frameworks. Tino makes a huge impact in the classroom working with k-12 students teaching spoken word.
Tino V. H. Jr. is a Mexican-American spoken word poet and organizer born and raised in Oakland, CA. He has performed with the UCSC CUPSI slam team and the Legendary Collective in Santa Cruz. His work explores im/migration, indigeneity, the hood, queerness, feminism, and decolonial frameworks. Tino makes a huge impact in the classroom working with k-12 students teaching spoken word.
Vialsy "Esperanza"
Teaching Artist Bio...
Esperanza Cabrales is a Xicana poet from the 209 that is proud to put the B in LGBT. She fell in love with poetry in 2013 and has been writing it ever since. Her work has been published in the 2021 edition of Havik: The Las Positas Journal of Arts and Literature and The Aesthetic Digital Magazine (where she was a former editor). She has a chapbook called "Can You See Her?" coming soon. Esperanza has performed throughout California from Stockton and Manteca to the bay and LA. She has featured at Las Positas College in Livermore and in Stockton at Hatch Workshop, a makerspace for local artists. Currently, she teaches spoken word to k-12 students in Bay Area Creative’s SPARC Poetry program.
Esperanza Cabrales is a Xicana poet from the 209 that is proud to put the B in LGBT. She fell in love with poetry in 2013 and has been writing it ever since. Her work has been published in the 2021 edition of Havik: The Las Positas Journal of Arts and Literature and The Aesthetic Digital Magazine (where she was a former editor). She has a chapbook called "Can You See Her?" coming soon. Esperanza has performed throughout California from Stockton and Manteca to the bay and LA. She has featured at Las Positas College in Livermore and in Stockton at Hatch Workshop, a makerspace for local artists. Currently, she teaches spoken word to k-12 students in Bay Area Creative’s SPARC Poetry program.
Our Dance Teaching Artists
Ausean "Say" Wakefield
Dance Teacher Bio...
Arthur
Teaching Artist Bio...
AJ “Dopey Fresh” Gardner (he/him) is a Turf dancer and teacher from San Francisco, known for representing #TurfDancing during the #SuperBowlHalfTimeShow with @kendricklamar this month. He has won numerous all-styles jams and dance tournaments throughout his career.
In the entertainment industry, Dopey has collaborated with notable artists and organizations, including Mikey Disco from Knuckle Neck Tribe, Sony, Men’s Wearhouse, Trademark Inc, Souls of Mischief, E-40, Kanye West, Schoolboy Q, YG, and H.E.R. He made history as the first Black Turf dancer to be featured on a billboard in San Francisco.
Dopey Fresh is passionate about sharing his craft, having taught adult classes at City Dance Studio as the first Black Turf dance instructor, and working with 1st graders at an all-Black after-school program in Oakland for four years under the Ujimaa Foundation.
Currently, he serves as the CEO of UNKNOWN CHAMBERS and performs with his dance group, UNKNOWN. In 2023, he collaborated with AJ and Megan on the @mudwaterproject Turf, leading to a partnership with MLD in 2024. That same year, he was invited to teach the first Turf dance workshop in Montreal at J.O.A.T.
AJ “Dopey Fresh” Gardner (he/him) is a Turf dancer and teacher from San Francisco, known for representing #TurfDancing during the #SuperBowlHalfTimeShow with @kendricklamar this month. He has won numerous all-styles jams and dance tournaments throughout his career.
In the entertainment industry, Dopey has collaborated with notable artists and organizations, including Mikey Disco from Knuckle Neck Tribe, Sony, Men’s Wearhouse, Trademark Inc, Souls of Mischief, E-40, Kanye West, Schoolboy Q, YG, and H.E.R. He made history as the first Black Turf dancer to be featured on a billboard in San Francisco.
Dopey Fresh is passionate about sharing his craft, having taught adult classes at City Dance Studio as the first Black Turf dance instructor, and working with 1st graders at an all-Black after-school program in Oakland for four years under the Ujimaa Foundation.
Currently, he serves as the CEO of UNKNOWN CHAMBERS and performs with his dance group, UNKNOWN. In 2023, he collaborated with AJ and Megan on the @mudwaterproject Turf, leading to a partnership with MLD in 2024. That same year, he was invited to teach the first Turf dance workshop in Montreal at J.O.A.T.
Aziza Thomas
Dance Teacher Bio...
Aziza Thomas, professionally known as Mr. Thomas the Freestyler, is a 24-year-old choreographer and dancer with a decade of experience in the industry. Trained in a variety of styles, including hip-hop, contemporary, ballet, jazz, aerial dance, and more, Thomas brings versatility and expertise to every performance. Notably, Thomas was featured in a KQED dance video titled If Your Cities Could Dance: Richmond, showcasing their talent and creative vision. He has been a teaching artist for two years and has received high reviews from students in each assessment.
Aziza Thomas, professionally known as Mr. Thomas the Freestyler, is a 24-year-old choreographer and dancer with a decade of experience in the industry. Trained in a variety of styles, including hip-hop, contemporary, ballet, jazz, aerial dance, and more, Thomas brings versatility and expertise to every performance. Notably, Thomas was featured in a KQED dance video titled If Your Cities Could Dance: Richmond, showcasing their talent and creative vision. He has been a teaching artist for two years and has received high reviews from students in each assessment.
Denzel Koozi
Erik Wright
Dance Teacher Bio...
Erik Wright aka Chiller L.E.O is a dancer and hip hop / R & B artist born and raised in Oakland, Ca. With Featured tracks with Stunnaman, Dave Steezy, Mani Draper and more. He’s been dancing since the age of 4 Years old, Inspired by artists like Michael Jackson, Erykah Badu, Tupac, Andre 3000 and Chris Brown. His goal in life overall is to inspire the generations after him to express themselves creatively and that dreams do come true when you just trust in yourself and the universe.
Erik Wright aka Chiller L.E.O is a dancer and hip hop / R & B artist born and raised in Oakland, Ca. With Featured tracks with Stunnaman, Dave Steezy, Mani Draper and more. He’s been dancing since the age of 4 Years old, Inspired by artists like Michael Jackson, Erykah Badu, Tupac, Andre 3000 and Chris Brown. His goal in life overall is to inspire the generations after him to express themselves creatively and that dreams do come true when you just trust in yourself and the universe.
Jamar "Jammer"
Dance Teacher Bio...
Jamar is an urban dance teacher educating youth on the fundamentals of hip hop dance and teaching the history of hip hop culture. As a lead teacher he choreographs dance routines to be used by other teaching artists and prepares students to perform at events. He has danced in commercials, movies, concerts, plays, tours and talk shows; having worked with Usher, Madonna, Michael Jackson, Bette Midler, Beyonce, Tevin Campbell, Wayne Brady, and Tony Toni Tone.
Jamar is an urban dance teacher educating youth on the fundamentals of hip hop dance and teaching the history of hip hop culture. As a lead teacher he choreographs dance routines to be used by other teaching artists and prepares students to perform at events. He has danced in commercials, movies, concerts, plays, tours and talk shows; having worked with Usher, Madonna, Michael Jackson, Bette Midler, Beyonce, Tevin Campbell, Wayne Brady, and Tony Toni Tone.
Jarell Boyd
Katana Pop
Dance Teacher Bio...
Katana is a Chicago born dance performance artist, battle dancer, choreographer, and teaching artist now residing in the Bay Area. Throughout her career, Katana has trained in all different styles from studio styles and then transitioning to street dance in her professional career. Although she has explored many styles in dance, she is heavily rooted in the style of popping, Egyptian bang tutting, and waving. Katana has battled in all over the country and has been in major competitions such as Redbull BC One, and Redbull Dance Your Style, qualifying and competing in the national finals in 2023. Since moving to the Bay Area, Katana has been heavily influenced by Turf dancing and culture (Bay Area created street dance style). She is a part of the Bay Area dance team called; It’s THEM which have been featured in music videos, stage performances, etc. Katana strives to share her deep knowledge of current hip hop dance culture and popping techniques with her students to help them grow their confidence and celebrate their own movement.
Katana is a Chicago born dance performance artist, battle dancer, choreographer, and teaching artist now residing in the Bay Area. Throughout her career, Katana has trained in all different styles from studio styles and then transitioning to street dance in her professional career. Although she has explored many styles in dance, she is heavily rooted in the style of popping, Egyptian bang tutting, and waving. Katana has battled in all over the country and has been in major competitions such as Redbull BC One, and Redbull Dance Your Style, qualifying and competing in the national finals in 2023. Since moving to the Bay Area, Katana has been heavily influenced by Turf dancing and culture (Bay Area created street dance style). She is a part of the Bay Area dance team called; It’s THEM which have been featured in music videos, stage performances, etc. Katana strives to share her deep knowledge of current hip hop dance culture and popping techniques with her students to help them grow their confidence and celebrate their own movement.
Naliyah Williams
Dance Teacher Bio...
Nai Thaillnai (pronounced The•iLL•Nye), a Southern native raised in the vibrant streets of Oakland, California, is a multifaceted artist dedicated to celebrating and uplifting Black women. As a performing artist, singer-songwriter, dancer, poet, and visual artist, she uses her talents to promote a positive and authentic image of Black women, honoring their voices and experiences in their entirety.
Passionate about amplifying the stories of women whose perspectives have been overlooked, Thaillnai channels her creativity to challenge narratives and inspire change. Through her art in all its forms, she strives to bring awareness to lost Black voices, crafting a legacy of empowerment and representation.
Nai Thaillnai (pronounced The•iLL•Nye), a Southern native raised in the vibrant streets of Oakland, California, is a multifaceted artist dedicated to celebrating and uplifting Black women. As a performing artist, singer-songwriter, dancer, poet, and visual artist, she uses her talents to promote a positive and authentic image of Black women, honoring their voices and experiences in their entirety.
Passionate about amplifying the stories of women whose perspectives have been overlooked, Thaillnai channels her creativity to challenge narratives and inspire change. Through her art in all its forms, she strives to bring awareness to lost Black voices, crafting a legacy of empowerment and representation.
Shaka Perdue
Dance Teacher Bio...
Shaka Perdue, originally from Atlanta, Georgia, relocated to Oakland, California, in 2008 and has since established himself as a professional dancer specializing in Turfing. With a lifelong passion for dance, Shaka’s journey began with his first performance in seventh grade, paving the way for a career as a professional street dancer and competitor. His accomplishments include being crowned the 2018-2019 Worldwide Dance Association Champion, the 2022 Yak Films "Live is Living" Champion, and the 2024 Red Bull Oakland Qualifier Champion. In addition to his competitive success, Shaka has made notable video appearances with renowned artists such as Kendrick Lamar and Mistah F.A.B., among others, further solidifying his presence in the dance and entertainment industry.
Shaka Perdue, originally from Atlanta, Georgia, relocated to Oakland, California, in 2008 and has since established himself as a professional dancer specializing in Turfing. With a lifelong passion for dance, Shaka’s journey began with his first performance in seventh grade, paving the way for a career as a professional street dancer and competitor. His accomplishments include being crowned the 2018-2019 Worldwide Dance Association Champion, the 2022 Yak Films "Live is Living" Champion, and the 2024 Red Bull Oakland Qualifier Champion. In addition to his competitive success, Shaka has made notable video appearances with renowned artists such as Kendrick Lamar and Mistah F.A.B., among others, further solidifying his presence in the dance and entertainment industry.
Algerion "Krow" Bryant
Dance Teacher Bio...
Our Visual Arts Teachers
Jamie DeWolf
Visual Arts Teacher...
Jamie Dewolf is a film director, performer, writer, live event producer, and arts educator from Oakland, CA whose films have won over 35 international awards. As a filmmaker over the past decade and a half, his hard-hitting storytelling have intertwined art and activism for national campaigns leading to film festival victories and viral videos worldwide. He’s filmed in the militarized zones in Kashmir, documented the diabetes epidemic in Navajo Nation, and has partnered with the Center for Investigative Reporting for a trilogy of films tackling social justice issues that were showcased on KQED, PBS, the SF Chronicle, UpWorthy, the NY Times, CBS and NBC. He's also created commercials and PSAs for clients such as Leapfrog Educational Toys, San Francisco General Hospital, the Exploratorium, Youth Speaks, the Anita Borg Institute, the Cultural Engagement Lab and the Center for Vulnerable Populations.
He continues to produce and direct a variety of projects from audience award and jury prize winning genre short films, to music videos for such Bay Area luminaries as the Grammy award winning Fantastic Negrito and the feminist folk/punk icon Rachel Lark. DeWolf recently received the Kenneth Rainin Open Spaces documentary grant for a series of shorts profiling arts organizations that incorporate civic engagement and community history into city-wide public performances. An animated short film of his performance "Girl in the Hallway" has won 26 international awards, including the Fantasia Audience Award and was chosen by Vimeo and The Atlantic as one of the top short 10 films of the year.
Jamie Dewolf is a film director, performer, writer, live event producer, and arts educator from Oakland, CA whose films have won over 35 international awards. As a filmmaker over the past decade and a half, his hard-hitting storytelling have intertwined art and activism for national campaigns leading to film festival victories and viral videos worldwide. He’s filmed in the militarized zones in Kashmir, documented the diabetes epidemic in Navajo Nation, and has partnered with the Center for Investigative Reporting for a trilogy of films tackling social justice issues that were showcased on KQED, PBS, the SF Chronicle, UpWorthy, the NY Times, CBS and NBC. He's also created commercials and PSAs for clients such as Leapfrog Educational Toys, San Francisco General Hospital, the Exploratorium, Youth Speaks, the Anita Borg Institute, the Cultural Engagement Lab and the Center for Vulnerable Populations.
He continues to produce and direct a variety of projects from audience award and jury prize winning genre short films, to music videos for such Bay Area luminaries as the Grammy award winning Fantastic Negrito and the feminist folk/punk icon Rachel Lark. DeWolf recently received the Kenneth Rainin Open Spaces documentary grant for a series of shorts profiling arts organizations that incorporate civic engagement and community history into city-wide public performances. An animated short film of his performance "Girl in the Hallway" has won 26 international awards, including the Fantasia Audience Award and was chosen by Vimeo and The Atlantic as one of the top short 10 films of the year.
Johnathan Kennedy
Visual Arts and Poetry Teacher Bio...
Johnathan is a Bay Area based videographer and teaching artist. His love of film and film study began at the University of Nevada in Las Vegas (UNLV) where he did his undergraduate work.. In 2005 he directed “Safety Key” an after-school program offered by the Clark County School District. As lead teacher of the BAC film program he develops curriculum and coordinates film students to produce film projects of various culturally responsive content including poetry and dance classes.
Johnathan is a Bay Area based videographer and teaching artist. His love of film and film study began at the University of Nevada in Las Vegas (UNLV) where he did his undergraduate work.. In 2005 he directed “Safety Key” an after-school program offered by the Clark County School District. As lead teacher of the BAC film program he develops curriculum and coordinates film students to produce film projects of various culturally responsive content including poetry and dance classes.
DJ Ignacia
Visual Arts Teacher Bio...
Ignacia Hardy is a visual artist from Oakland, CA. They are driven to craft visual works that shift the paradigm of gender, break barriers that incase cultures and to work with youth and marginalized populations in the process. Ignacia will create works of art inspired by poets and dancers in the event, work in mentorship with a student and collaborate with another visual artist in a live painting display.
Ignacia Hardy is a visual artist from Oakland, CA. They are driven to craft visual works that shift the paradigm of gender, break barriers that incase cultures and to work with youth and marginalized populations in the process. Ignacia will create works of art inspired by poets and dancers in the event, work in mentorship with a student and collaborate with another visual artist in a live painting display.
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