Monika Amunyela

Zambezi’s Finest, a four-member dance group comprising Simbuwa Mwala, Simbuwa Macleod, Kalundu Maani and Sameko Tysen, has captured attention after qualifying for the finals of the PstBet Windhoek Annual Cultural Festival in first place.

Despite their achievement, the group now faces a major hurdle: they cannot afford transport, accommodation, or food to travel to Windhoek for the festival.

“We met each other at school back in 2022, where we were performing separately at first. As time went on, we realised that we all shared the same love and passion for dance,” Maani said. That shared passion led to the formation of their group ‘Zambezi’s Finest’.

Qualifying for the finals is deeply personal for the young dancers. They say it’s a dream come true, a sign that their hard work and determination have not gone unnoticed. 

“It gives us the opportunity to represent the Zambezi region and show the people of Namibia that there is real talent where we come from,” Mwala added.

To raise funds, the group launched a five-day social media campaign showcasing their choreography. 

The proceeds from this campaign will go towards accommodation, transport, and food for their time in Windhoek. 

“The biggest challenge we are facing right now is raising funds. Any support from sponsors, businesses, or individuals would make a huge difference,” said Mwala.

Their style, which they describe as ‘family dance,’ is a symbol of synchronisation and unity. 

“It focuses on precision and unity, which means we move as one with no mistakes,” Tysen explained.

The bond they have maintained is rooted in shared experience and trust. 

“We trust and respect one another, and that connection shows clearly in our performances,” added Tysen. The team also shares a big goal to show that talent has no boundaries: “Our dream is to grow into one of the most recognised dance groups in Namibia and even beyond,” he concluded. 

-mamunyela@nepc.com.na