Newcastle Dance House empowers local youth through street dance

The Newcastle Dance House is the brainchild of Ntombizakithi  Mbhele, a local young woman who aims to make a change in her community one dance step at a time.

Ntombizakithi successfully organised a dancing competition she called the Ground of Dancers Battle League, in Osizweni on December 1.

Local dancers competed against one another in the competition for the chance to win a R1000 cash prize and the title of best dancer in Newcastle.

The day was a huge success and demonstrated to young people that dancing can be done for purposes other than getting “likes” on social media. The young people can utilise their talent to further their careers or to fulfil their aspirations.

Six years ago, Ntombizakithi started teaching youngsters how to dance. She has given the dancing group her all and is now beginning to see her initiative take off.

“The Newcastle Dance House aims to change the perspective people have of dance in our community by nurturing the natural talent of children of all different backgrounds. Through their love of dance we want to see them achieve their dreams and goals,” she stated

“In the six short years since its founding, the Newcastle Dance House Studio has played a major role in the transformation of youth from a town with too many unproductive, unsupervised kids who have too much time on their hands and tend to get into trouble. However, the dance classes have provided them with a valuable structured programme.”

“Going forward, we want to assist In getting primary school children from underprivileged homes school-ready by providing uniforms, books, stationery and other things they might need.”

Her dream is for the studio to expand to the point that they can launch campaigns to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, drug and substance abuse, crime, and teen pregnancy.

For the day’s success, she thanked all those who provided tents, chairs, carpets and sound system. She also thanked Zama Retailers for the venue and the winners’ prize, AgapeGumza for providing the Valpré Water, Nqobani Media,Fisani Foundation, Kwenzamakhuze ,Makhanya Petrol Station ,Vusi Kubheka and everyone who supported the event.

Newcastle Dance House hosts dancing classes every Tuesday and Thursday at the Osizweni Art Centre from 15:00 to 18:00.

Check out Newcastle Dance House on Facebook :https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071813236734&mibextid=YMEMSu

See photos below:

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