Swazi Observer

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ESWATINI FEELS LIKE HOME – WILLIAMS

By Siyabonga Nsibande | 2024-09-18

FOUNDER and director of Step Afrika! C. Brian Williams has said he happy to be in Eswatini with his ‘steppers’ for an entertaining and educational purpose, teaching local communities about the history behind dance form ‘stepping’.

“We are excited to be in Eswatini through our Step Afrika! programme. We are hoping to showcase the art and culture of ‘stepping’ as well as learn more about the rich history and culture of Eswatini. It’s great to be here and Eswatini feels like home,” Williams explained.

“Step Afrika! is in Eswatini for engagements with US Embassy Eswatini representatives, hosting workshops with the Eswatini National Dance Association, educational programmes with St John Bosco and Somnjalose High Schools, and a free public performance at the Eswatini Theatre Club on Saturday,” Williams said.

explained

Arriving last evening, Williams explained that he began the dance organisation in 1994, as dance was part of the African American culture.

He said he was influenced by Southern African dance and experiences he had in the region, with most influence from Thembinkosi Hlatshwayo and Jackie Seemela whom he met in South Africa 30 years ago.

He said he was grateful for the opportunity through the US Embassy to teach and learn more about arts and culture during their visit.

He said the concept of his business was influenced by African dance, specifically gumboot dancing which was similar to ‘stepping’

“Eswatini and South Africa have had a large influence in the company. Having experienced places like Eswatini, Lesotho, Botswana and South Africa, I was able to get my company off the ground through the desire to host and educate African American youth through dance, while travelling and sharing our passion through dance.

Stepping is a form of expression combining movement and song, and we will exchange this culture with the people of Eswatini while we are here,” he stated.

educated

Step Afrika consists of 17 members, all educated with degrees in performing arts. The organisation is based in Washington DC and has been able to bring together people from the various states of America through dance.

“Stepping is historically associated with college groups, but today the art form is universal and highly appealing to young people. Stepping can now be found in schools, churches, and community-based organisations all across America,” Williams added.

Member of Step Afrika Pelham Warner said he was excited to engage with locals during their time here.

“I am happy to be in Africa. As an African-American, it is powerful to be able to bring our culture and combine it with our roots through art and expression.

Robert Warnsley agreed with Warner, saying he was also eager to hear the music and see the dances as he was a fan of afro beats, amapiano and pantsula dance styles.

Member, Ariel Dykes said she was grateful to be a part of Step Afrika! She said it had aided her in her growth and development as a person overall and was hoping to share that with the people of Eswatini.

“I have been a part of Step Afrika! for the past three years. I learn about them while I was still in school and it has been a wonderful experience being with them. Being able to touch lives through art has been special and we hope to be able to achieve that while in Eswatini,” Dykes said.

Valencia Springer said she enjoyed travelling with Step Afrika!

“As much as we teach a lot through our work, it is always special to be able to learn from the places we have travelled to. Being in Eswatini is a blessing. Step Afrika has been great in getting us on international platforms, exchanging cultures with people of the world and doing it all through the love for education and arts.

US Embassy public relations representative, Carly Van Orman, said the US Embassy was happy to create the opportunity for local creative.

“We are delighted with the arrival of Step Afrika! Williams and his team are passionate about education of the arts and want to share that with Africa. Having them here is a great opportunity for development and exposure to the possibilities for the youth of Eswatini,” she said.

She urged all youth and creative to attend their public show at the Eswatini Theatre Club tomorrow, starting at 4 PM. The show will be free for all.

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