Sistas wit Style

Sistas-Wit-Style (SWS), a dynamic trio of young women, have been working for almost a decade teaching Caribbean folk dance in the Oakland community to low income and disadvantage children.The group was founded by Merissa Lyons and Kianna Rachal-both only seven years old at the time- with the help of Merrisa’s mother, Annabelle Goodridge.Four years later, Valencia Newton joined the group at the age of eleven.

At first, the young women were simply teaching dance and drum but discovered that through classes and performances they were making a positive difference with the young children which was noted through a shift in their self esteem and improvement in their work habits.Merrisa Lyons, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and now 19 years old and a student at San Jose State University , says, “There is so much negativity and we can show children how to express themselves in a non-violent, positive way through drumming and dance”.Merrisa, an American of Trinidadian heritage, originally intended to show off Caribbean cultural dances and drumming and is amazed by the difference it is making in the community.Valencia Newton, now 19 years old and Chief Operating Officer (COO), attends the University of California , Berkeley majoring in social work and dance. Kianna Rachal, 19 years old and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) attends California State university East Bay majoring in business administration and dance.The trio is not only giving back to the community through their talents but is also providing a positive example by attending college to further their education.

The group provides annual events, such as their Christmas show and banquet where toys are given away to the children. SWS performs in Trinidad , Tobago , Florida , Texas , Southern and Northern California . In December 2008 they were honored by Oakland ’s Mayor Ronald Dellums and have received many other awards including being recognized by Congresswoman Barbara Lee, the California State Assembly and the County of Alameda . Currently SWS are teaching classes at Foothill Square in the city of Oakland preparing for San Francisco ’s Carnival.

For more information (510) 952-6287/ 387-7771 or email us at sistas_wit_style@yahoo.com or visit us www.sistas-wit-style.com