Van Wyk Amutenya
From the heart of Keetmanshoop, a vibrant dance crew, known as BloodBrothers, by 23-year-old Eduard Thomas and Kinley Thomas (25) has emerged, captivating audiences and inspiring a new generation of dancers.
With dreams of representing Namibia on global stages, this young duo of talented performers aims not only to entertain but also uplift their community and steer youth away from the perils of drugs and alcohol.
“We started as young boys on the outskirts of Keetmanshoop, and we were inspired by the local dance crew GTKz. They played a major role in our dancing and made us realise that with dancing, you can also put food on the table at home as long as you know what you want in life,” said the two.
Witnessing how dance could not only bring joy but also provide financial support to their families, they realised the potential of pursuing a career in dance.
While specialising in the popular kwaito genre, they have ingeniously incorporated elements of emerging styles, such as amapiano to create a unique fusion of dance moves, showcasing their creativity and versatility.
“If you are interested in dancing, you have to practice and most importantly listen to the music of any genre just to know every single beat of the song. That’s how you’re going to know the rhythm in which you have to dance and be rated as one of the best dancers,” they explained.
Throughout their rise to prominence, this Namibian dance crew has achieved several notable milestones: winning the Kongoma Dance Competition in 2017 and emerging victorious at the Namjive Dance Competition in 2018. These were pivotal moments in their journey.
Additionally, the crew fearlessly challenged the highly acclaimed Soweto’s Finest from South Africa in 2019, further cementing their place among the dance elite in Africa.
Led by their passion for dance and a desire to make a positive impact, this dance crew has set its sights on bigger talent shows worldwide and aims to open a dance academy to nurture budding talent. Despite their success, this group has faced obstacles along the way. One of their major challenges has been the lack of recognition and support from the government and organisers of large festivals. However, their resilience shines through, as they have taken matters into their own hands by organising their own shows and captivating the youth who fervently support their cause.
This Namibian dance crew not only inspires their fellow dancers but also draws inspiration from the local dance community. The mutual exchange of enthusiasm and skill has fuelled the growth of the dancing industry in Namibia, pushing boundaries and raising the bar for excellence.
“As dancers from Namibia, we inspire each other – and mostly, we inspire a lot of other dancers with the consistency level we have influenced in the dancing industry,” said the members.
For aspiring dancers, the crew emphasises the importance of practice and a deep connection with music. Understanding every beat and rhythm of a song is essential to delivering breathtaking performances. They also stress the significance of maintaining physical fitness to prevent injuries and caution against potential dangers in crowded areas, where jealousy can sometimes rear its head.
They believe that inspiration is the key to unlocking doors to success and encouraging others to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
“Be inspired because being inspired is the key to opening the door of something you want, and if you want something in life, go for it. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t have it.”