Online Reporter
Langalihle Mhiti
THROUGH viral posts on TikTok, YouTube clips and innovative choreography, what once started as a passion for many young Zimbabweans is now evolving into a powerful form of expression, culture, and even income, reshaping the local entertainment scene.
One of the faces behind this movement is Proud Choreography, a respected dancer and choreographer in Harare.
His story speaks of resilience and faith.
“I started dancing when I was young in search of my school fees,” he said.
“I was in high school and had no support. Dancing became the only thing I could do to survive.”
From those difficult beginnings, Proud has grown into a mentor for many, now offering in-dance choreography and online dance classes that reach youths across Zimbabwe.
“We mix traditional steps with modern rhythm. I want our culture to be seen, not just copied,” he said.
For Proud, dance is more than a movement, it’s spiritual.
His advice to aspiring dancers is simple but powerful – they have to focus, be determined, and always put God first.
“Proud changed how we see dance. I started dancing because of his TikTok videos,” says Tanya Muwani (19), a college student from Kambuzuma.
“The way he combines culture and swag, it gave me confidence. I joined a dance group on campus because of him.”
Brenda Manuel (17), a high school student in Westlea, shared a similar view.
“He’s from the ghetto, just like me. If he can make it with dancing, so can we. I don’t even want to be famous, I just want to express myself.”
Others see him as more than an entertainer.
“He inspires us to believe in ourselves,” said Tino Nyika, a freelance videographer.
“And the way he tells young people to praise God, that’s rare in this industry.”
As dance gains popularity in Zimbabwe, people like Proud are proving that talent, when nurtured with purpose, can open doors globally.
While many still struggle with limited resources, borrowing speakers, dancing barefoot, and rehearsing in open spaces, the dream is alive and growing.
“We want the world to know Zimbabwe moves,” says Proud. “We’re not just following trends, we’re creating them.”
