Cocoa’s rise continues with another Nama nod

Bulawayo-born dancer Cocoa (Ellain Ncube) is celebrating her second consecutive nomination at the National Arts Merit Awards (Nama), cementing her transition from modelling to dance.

Now based in Harare, Cocoa has once again been nominated in the Outstanding Female Dancer category for her performance in Black Fever, a dance choreography. She will be competing against Tanaka Machikicho (Into the Light) and Celine Madziva (Respect My Team) for the award.

A well-established name in the dance industry, Cocoa has showcased her talent at numerous high-profile events. She was the lead dancer at the 2023 Namas, performing alongside Ishan, and has also graced the stage at the Zimbabwe Music Awards. Additionally, she has performed with some of Zimbabwe’s top artistes, including Ammara Brown, ExQ, Juntal, Freeman, Volts, Leo, and Asaph.

Expressing her gratitude, Cocoa credited her success to divine intervention.

“I’m humbled by the grace of God in my life. He planted a seed in me, and through unwavering faith, discipline, and consistency, I have nurtured it. Jesus Christ is faithful to His promise — glory be to God.”

She shared the importance of perseverance in her journey.

“Consistency is key. I believe in myself, and God sees my efforts, growth, and desire to be an example of how hard work pays off. My mantra is to stay disciplined, kind, and trust in God’s timing.”

Should she claim the award after missing out last year, Cocoa remains steadfast in her faith.

“My response would be — Jesus is in control of my life, and that’s my biggest flex.”

A Zimbabwe Theatre Academy and Afrikera Arts Trust alumna, Cocoa has worked tirelessly to build her career.

“I have worked very hard to get to where I am today, and I want everyone following my journey to know that hard work pays. Trust the process and always be willing to go the extra mile for your goals. It’s never an easy journey, but trust in yourself,” she said.

Cocoa’s passion for the arts began in high school, where she was part of the Nketa High School choir. Her acting career saw her win several awards, including Outstanding Supporting Female Actress for her role in Isiphiwo Sami and Outstanding Supporting Actress at the NASH Drama Competition in 2018. This earned her a scholarship at the Zimbabwe Theatre Academy, where she performed at the Bulawayo Arts Festival and starred as the lead actress in the Econet @25 celebrations advert. In 2021, she received a dance scholarship at Afrikera Arts Trust, an opportunity that reshaped her artistic path.

“I truly never thought I’d become a dancer, but Afrikera gave me the platform to explore that side of me. Through Afrikera, I performed at the ZICCA Festival (2022) and the Starlight Festival. The academy has indeed opened many doors for me.”

A graduate of Fingers Modelling Academy, she was crowned Miss Summer Strides First Princess (2020) and Miss Supra-eminence Second Princess (2022). – @mthabisi_mthire