Ditshehla Dance Group dances in Winnie Mandela Park
This multi-talented traditional dance group called "Ditshehla Group Dance" is comprised of young people from age 5 to 18 years, entertains people in Winnie Mandela Park and the surrounding areas during their performances in shopping centres, parks, and street.
Under the leadership of Olitta Mokoka, a parent and resident of Winnie Mandela Zone 4, an upcoming Sepedi traditional dance group has become well-known for their outstanding performances at parties, weddings and other events.
This multi-talented traditional dance group, called Ditshehla Group Dance, is comprised of young people from age 5 to 18 years and they entertain people in Winnie Mandela Park and the surrounding areas during their performances in shopping centres, parks and on the street.
Ditshehla Group Dance does not only dance to Sepedi wedding songs but Setswana and Xhonga traditional dances among others.
According to Mokoka, she was requested by her daughter to mentor them as a group to dance for traditional songs.
“Since I was young I loved culture and I was eager to learn other people’s tradition. Sepedi is my culture. It was easy to teach the children Sepedi songs and moves. I am very happy because my children are easy to adopt other people’s cultures. They are also exceptional in dancing Xhonga songs,” said Mokoka.
Mokoka emphasised she took advantage of her child’s idea to remove children from the streets.
“I feel lucky to be surrounded by this group of children. They always remind me that life is short, we should live it to the fullest and enjoy the most precious chance that we have on earth with greater laughter and no regrets. They’ve got boundless passion in dancing,” added Mokoka.
She urged the community to support the children as they need to be kept busy at all times when they are not in schools.
“I also need parents to support us through watching their children during practices. Some parents do not know what their children love and what their talents are. It is advisable as a parent to engage in your child’s daily activities so that you can be able to notice his/her failures,” said Mokoka.
Mokoka also said through dancing at various events, she was able to buy some dancing attire for the children.
“It was hard but I managed. With the help and support of the community, we are going forward. I am aiming to groom and develop these children to become inspirational to other youngsters,” she added.
Mokoka is appealing to local business people or any Good Samaritan to sponsor the group as they are lacking music equipment.
For any information about Ditshehla Group Dance contact Olitta Mokoka at 084 416 4448.
