Saidat and Her Crew

Saidat

image of students

Saidat Vandenberg is an incredible high-energy artist who uses rap, hip-hop dance and drama to bring across the message that “one person can make a difference, together we can change the world!”

Saidat created her program called Music, Movement & Motivation to eliminate bullying and help empower students, teaching them about their inner strength and how they can withstand any problems that come their way. She encourages students to put aside their differences and unite against the social issues that face them every day.

Saidat has performed in over 400 schools and community events influencing thousands of students. In recent years she has collaborated with the Good Life Kids Foundation and the Not To Kids campaign encouraging adults not to supply cigarettes to minors. Saidat has also been featured on London’s A Channel morning show and she has performed at North America’s largest anti-bullying rally in Hamilton with over 10,000 in attendance. In the summer of 2008 Saidat was given the opportunity to open for the artist Fergie at the Summer Bayfest in Sarnia, Ontario. Being passionate about helping people find the dream in their heart is Saidat’s goal and she is able to rock any venue with her energy, charisma and her smile!

Teacher Feedback

Here is what Teachers have said about the program

  • "It is great to see someone who the kids relate to the “cool image” that is so positive & cheerful. Thank you for giving so much to the community." - Michelle Murphy, Ryerson Public School, Grade 2
  • "The students were very engaged! They truly loved the dancing and singing!" - Patti Westaway, JP Robarts, Vice Principal
  • "Saidat’s high energy presentation is both entertaining and engaging for students. Her messages are truly meaningful an inspirational." - Ray Hughes, National Education Coordinator Fourth R Project
  • "An amazing and enriching presentation that speaks to all students. A wonderful opportunity for students to "STOP, THINK and SPEAK!" in an environment that is both engaging and powerful - Mrs. Johnston, St. Daniel School, Kitchener ON - WCDSB "
  • "I am a FIRM believer that students & youth know far more that we give them credit for and have the capacity (already) to be the change the world wants to see. As such, I found myself smiling (and dancing) in support of the direct and honest method with which you addressed issues. As an educator, I both noticed and appreciated the mixture of physical, musical and motivational breaks, where kids could stretch their legs, blow off steam etc. It made a huge difference in maintaining their attention. Also, your positivity & energy was a welcomed break from our end-of-the-year heat. - Carla Fundak, Kitchener ON - WCDSB"
  • "Amazing message that delivered with enthusiasm and energy has impacted all of the students and teachers to take action and see the vision to be the change! Thank you so much! - Jen Riley, Kitchener ON- WCDSB"
  • "Saidat was inspiring , rejuvenating and thought-provoking. Her message came straight from the heart and soul about what we can all do to support kids, to help them be the best they can be and to be truthful to ourselves about the kind of noise WE want to make- with our students, our colleagues and in our personal life! - Barbara King, OASAR"
  • "The students and staff at our Jeanne Sauve were excited about seeing Saidat again. Everyone, from our youngest SK students to our almost graduating Grade 8’s all found meaning and inspiritation in her messages of conflict resolution, respect, and becoming agents of change. Her performance was fresh and uplifting. Students and staff immediately became engaged. We are very fortunate to have had this opportunity to revisit the important messages she shared. STOP, THINK, SPEAK is a phrase that has found it’s way into out Code of Conduct and is becoming a way of life at our school" - Marion Holgate, Jeanne Sauve French Immersion Public School
  • "Saidat does amazing interactive dance workshops by division or whole school. Even the most relucant dancer will be up and moving to the music. Her message is empowering and provides students with strategies to stand up to bullying and to support others. - Tony Proracki, Rainham P.S."
  • "You did an amazing job at Rainham today and I really loved having you guys! I thought we were going to the gym for another boring presentation but boy was I wrong! I loved how you used examples with what you were saying and you have an amazing voice and wicked cool dance moves! :) LOL You are doing a great job reaching out to people and making them really think about whats happening around them :) And I am so terribly sorry about the loss of your highschool friend and that even though you guys were sad I'm still so glad you still came :) and i might have a hard time getting over myself because i have a big ego LOL :) anyways thanks again, those quotes and sayings will stay with me forever. YOU GUYS ROCK!!! :) - Student, Rainham P.S."