Erika started her Polynesian dance journey at the age of 10 when she joined a small local halau in San Jose, as one of the original members of Hula Halau Malie Me Ke Aloha (now Lokahi Polynesian Dance Group).  She danced for a few years, on and off, until college and life happened.

After moving to Roseville in 2021 with her husband and two kids, Erika had always been interested in joining a Polynesian dance group in the area.  Fortunately, “Uncle Charles” saw on Facebook that Manuia Polynesian Revue was coming to Rocklin. Erika attended Manuia Rocklin’s first class and fell in love with Polynesian dancing all over again. The next week, she brought her daughter, Ava, to try out the tamahine class, and they have been part of the Manuia family ever since.

With the amount of time Erika has spent at the studio, whether it is waiting for Ava’s class or attending all the classes that Manuia Rocklin offers (Hula, Intermediate Ori, Mehura  Poly Revue, Solos Training, Drumming/Music), Erika now assists Kristen with the kids hula/polynesian revue classes. She also helps Uncle Charles with the drumming class, playing the tariparau (pahu).

Erika’s love for dance and the Polynesian culture is not only reflected in performances and shows, but in Tahitian competitions as well, placing 1st Place at Manahere I ‘Ori Tahiti 2024 (Beginner 35-44) and 3rd Place at Kiki Raina Tahiti Fete 2025 (Beginner 35-44).

When Erika is not at the studio, she is most likely spending time with the family or trying to catch up on sleep.