Why do you think Black History Month is important?
It is a time to really acknowledge and celebrate our ancestors.
Tell us a bit about your chosen art form/dance style:
Bhenga originates from South Africa and it’s popular footwork movement is known amongst the people of South Africa. Other styles like sbjuwa (house footwork) and moves such as Ivosho are also popular and danced to Gqom songs.
Why does this dance style appeal to you?
I have studied it for three years and counting because of how unique the style is. Everyone who dances this style has their own unique way of displaying it, which I love.
What’s your biggest achievement in this field?
I would say being the first teacher of the style not of South African decent is quite big… particularly for me, as I never thought I would teach it.
Where do you plan to take this dance style?
I have quite a few plans but one of them I have achieved, which is to begin sharing the culture and steps of the dance, but a big dream would be to actually perform with the artists in South Africa or in the UK.
Who inspires you and why?
I don’t really have anyone I look up to… I really work on my own craft and try to be the best version of myself.
What advice would you give to those interested in this style?
Go to South Africa and also read a lot of historical material on the traditions and inception of the style.
If you could try any other style, what would you do?
I do many others but South African movement is my main style.
Interviewed by Leanne ‘Creative’ Armstrong