Nkosi & Sizo’s Dance Journey to Belgium

I am Nadja Bartel, and together with my husband, Bonwa Mbontsi, we work with children and youth from the townships around Pietermaritzburg. Through dance, we create a space for creativity, upliftment, and Ubuntu.
At the moment, we are supporting two young men, Nkosingiphile Mkhwanazi and Sizophila Mthembu. Last year, they took part in the national Dance Waves Competition and qualified to represent South Africa in Belgium.
This journey is about more than just two boys. It is about showing other young people in their community that talent, discipline, and dreams can open doors. Their opportunity can inspire hope, courage, and ambition in many others.
Dance teaches resilience, self-awareness, teamwork, and care for one another. It helps young people grow in confidence and emotional intelligence, while also giving them a safe and meaningful alternative to the dangers of the streets, such as drugs and teenage pregnancy. Through the relationships, skills, and exposure they gain in our programme, new pathways and future job opportunities can also emerge.