The Step Afrika! Step Classic is a three-day celebration of stepping in the heart of our nation’s capital February 14 – 16, 2025! Inspired by the legacy of HBCU Classics, this inaugural weekend highlights the powerful artform of stepping, bringing together community, culture, and celebration in a way only Step Afrika! can. With step teams from across the country, the Classic centers stepping’s origins within the Divine Nine and its evolution into a unifying tradition that bridges generations and honors African American heritage.
THE STEP AFRIKA! STEP CLASSIC IS GENEROUSLY SPONSORED BY EVENTS DC, WITH ADDITIONAL SUPPORT FROM PROMOTIONAL PARTNER DESTINATION DC AND MEDIA SPONSOR WATCH THE YARD.
The Step Afrika! Step Classic is a three-day celebration in the heart of DC, bringing together community, culture, and the powerful tradition of stepping.
LaLa Milan is a bilingual social media influencer, actress, and comedian. Known for her unique YouTube parodies and skits, she has cultivated a strong social media following that has opened doors to opportunities in television, film, and brand collaborations. LaLa was a recurring cast member on the BET series Boomerang and has made guest appearances on Claws and A Black Lady Sketch Show. Most recently, she starred in the rom-com film The First Noelle.
A savvy businesswoman and licensed cosmetologist, LaLa Milan continues to expand her creative pursuits, including authoring a bilingual educational book for children and creating her own female wellness brand. Her explosive popularity has led to partnerships with brands such as Target, Juvia’s Place, Meta, and Fenty. As a multi-faceted entertainer and entrepreneur, LaLa inspires and entertains her ever-growing audience across various platforms, staying true to her innovative spirit.
Jeeda Barrington is a native of Glenarden, MD, and a graduate of Bowie State University where he earned his Bachelor’s in Music Technology and Master’s Degree in Human Resources. A member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Jeeda has served as the choreographer for various traveling step and “partywalk” teams. He continues his love for rhythms through disc jockeying at events across the United States.
Taken By Surprise (Lakeland, FL)
Taken by Surprise (TBS) Step Team is a dynamic group of innovative female steppers and the longest-running team of its kind in Lakeland, Florida. With 11 national championships, including 5 Stomp Wars USA and 6 Youth Step USA titles, TBS is known for captivating audiences across the southeastern U.S. Their mission is to build character through competition while fostering excellence in every aspect of life.
Tha S.W.A.G.G. Boiz (Houston, TX)
Tha S.W.A.G.G. Boiz, short for Steppers Working to Achieve Greater Greatness, is a high-energy group of middle and high school boys dedicated to the art of stepping. Crowned Grand Champions at the Dallas Step Show, they have performed in Atlanta and beyond as “Houston’s Hypest Entertainers,” thrilling audiences with their electrifying routines.
Omega Lamplighters Mighty Light Team (Tallahassee, FL)
The Mighty Light Team, the official step team of Omega Lamplighters Inc., consists of high school males in grades 9–12. Guided by core principles of Leadership, Academics, Maturity, and Perseverance, this nationally recognized team showcases exceptional talent and dedication to the art of stepping.
QuaDrew Step Team (Washington, DC)
The QuaDrew Step Team (QDST) is a collaborative effort of Howard University’s Quad and Drew Hall Step Teams. Founded in 2013, QDST works to preserve the art of stepping while fostering camaraderie and mentorship among members. More than an award-winning team, QDST serves as a vibrant community for current students and alumni alike.
Dem Raider Boyz Step Squad (Greenbelt, MD)
Founded in 2001 at Eleanor Roosevelt High School, Dem Raider Boyz Step Squad is the DMV’s premier all-male step team. With 10 undefeated seasons, 4 National Championship titles, and appearances on World of Dance and Game of Talents, they combine precision, energy, and creativity. Their commitment to excellence extends beyond the stage, maintaining a 3.9 team GPA.
Federal City Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (Washington, DC)
This team of dynamic women, ranging in age from their 20s to 50s, honors Delta Sigma Theta Sorority’s rich stepping tradition. They use their routines to celebrate Black history and educate audiences about influential figures and events, blending passion and purpose into every performance.
Beta Epsilon Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (Greensboro, NC)
Representing the first of the Divine Nine Black Greek Letter Fraternities, the Beta Epsilon Chapter embraces a legacy of leadership, brotherhood, and academic excellence. Their step team exemplifies precision and intensity, reflecting the values of service and intentionality rooted in Alpha Phi Alpha’s traditions.
Controlled Chaos Step Team (Baltimore, MD)
Founded in 2024, Controlled Chaos Step Team (CCST) is a rising force in the stepping world. Known for their unique mix of precision and creativity, CCST inspires and empowers communities through the art of stepping. Their dynamic performances showcase purpose, pride, and power, redefining what it means to lead through step.