A vibrant dance competition held on Saturday in Maseru marks the triumphant return of dancesport, aiming to inspire youth and revive the art after the COVID-19 pandemic.
A local hall in Maseru buzzed with energy as dancers from various styles came together for the first post-pandemic dance competition, organised by Moritsoana Creative Solutions.
The event was aimed at showcasing local talent and also revitalising the dancesport scene in Lesotho, which had suffered greatly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Founded by Tlotliso Mosae, a passionate former dancer, Moritsoana Creative Solutions is dedicated to empowering the youth through sports and the arts.
Mosae’s vision is clear: to demonstrate to young people that there are healthier, more fulfilling ways to have fun than resorting to alcohol and drugs.
With rising youth crime and delinquency, the organisation believes that engaging in dancesport can be a powerful tool for positive change.
The Lesotho Dancesport Federation, which supports clubs across the country is on board with Moritsoana’s mission. They aim to integrate dance into school curriculums, encouraging participation from primary to tertiary levels. Mosae emphasizes the importance of making dancesport more visible and respected, as it currently struggles for recognition and sponsorship.
The competition crowned Ranthapalali Phoofolo and Bokang Tlhomola as the Moritsoana Rising Stars, a title they will hold until the next competition in 2025.
Both winners are set to participate in various competitions locally and internationally in the coming year, representing the potential of Lesotho’s dancers on larger stages.
Moritsoana’s initiative is not just about recognising winners; it’s about uplifting the entire dance community. The event welcomed participants from all backgrounds, including Latin, Hip-hop, Pantsula, Street dance, and Contemporary Zumba, reflecting a diverse range of styles and talents. This inclusivity aims to attract more youth to the dance scene and foster a sense of community.
Looking ahead, Moritsoana Creative Solutions envisions a future where dancesport flourishes across all the country’s 10 districts.
The organisation aspires to create a culture of good behaviour and health through dance, contributing to the reduction of crime among the youth.
It also plans to host annual competitions, expanding opportunities for dancers to showcase their skills and gain recognition.
Mosae believes that through collaboration with other organisations, they can enhance the competition experience and provide better rewards for participants.
The mission of Moritsoana is simple yet profound: “Whatever you do, do it to the best of your ability.” This philosophy aims to inspire young people to recognise their talents and pursue their passions, potentially transforming their lives.
As Lesotho’s dancesport takes its first steps toward recovery, the hope is that this competition will spark a renewed interest in dancesport, paving the way for future generations to shine on the dance floor.
