Ghetto Kids Still Dancing with Joy After World Cup Shakira Gig
The Ghetto Kids dance troupe from Kampala, Uganda, is still basking in the glory of their life-changing performance at the football World Cup final half-time show on Sunday. The children, aged 10 and 11, danced alongside global stars Burna Boy and Shakira, viewed by many millions around the world.
A Milestone Performance
The children's performance, which was part of a new addition to the World Cup's biggest event, was met with both praise and criticism. However, for the Ghetto Kids, it was a dream come true. Speaking to the BBC's Newsday programme, members of the dance troupe and their manager said that rising from humble beginnings in Uganda's capital, Kampala, then finding fame while balancing it all with schoolwork has taken perseverance.
"We never give up… pray to God. Listen to your parents, education is first, that's all," says Sierra, a 10-year-old member of the dance troupe.
A Natural Show of Affection
The children's performance was a natural show of affection, rather than clever choreography, according to their manager, Dauda Kavuma. The children gave Colombian pop star Shakira and Nigerian musician Burna Boy a big hug on stage as their performance ended.
Learning they had been picked to perform was a dream come true for the children. "They ran around in a circle, banging and shouting" when they learned the news, says Kavuma.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Fame
The Ghetto Kids dance troupe was formed by Kavuma, who himself lived on the streets of Uganda's capital before the kindness of a teacher changed his life. He wanted to give back and later became a teacher himself before creating the Ghetto Kids dance troupe – formed of homeless children and those who could not afford school fees.
Frequent practice is a part of life for the Ghetto Kids, who have a huge social media following. Combining a multitude of African dance styles, comedy, and pure joy, they soon caught the attention of Ugandan musicians including Eddy Kenzo, who asked them to feature in some of his videos.
A Life-Changing Experience
The children's performance at the World Cup final was not their first major sporting event. They were thrilled to meet Kylian Mbappé and perform at a football half-time match in France between rivals Paris Saint-Germain and Reims back in 2023.
The experience has left a lasting impact on the children. "Dancing changed my life – I went to school because of dance," says Sierra. Both Sierra and Josephine tell the BBC they plan to become doctors when they grow up but will never give up their passion for dance.
A Message of Hope
The Ghetto Kids' message to other children who might be talented but have not had the easiest start in life is one of hope and resilience. "To love themselves, believe in God, and pray. Be with their talents – don't deny them," answers Josephine.
The Ghetto Kids' story is a reminder that with hard work, determination, and the right support, anything is possible. Their performance at the World Cup final is a testament to their talent, perseverance, and the impact they have on their fans around the world.
As the Ghetto Kids continue to dance and perform, their message of hope and resilience will inspire many more children to chase their dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem.
Source: Joy Online
