Traditional dance group celebrates 10 years
The group travelled the country performing traditional dances at various events.
The Ditaba Tsa Mmino traditional dance group from the Phomolong informal settlement in Mamelodi East is still going strong after 10 years.
The traditional group celebrated this milestone by entertaining Mamelodi residents as a way of thanking them for supporting them for so many years.
The group, consisting of 25 young people, has been producing songs, dancing at wedding, doing poetry and performing at tombsone unveiling ceremonies, parties and government events.
Founder of the group Easter Mabotja said she formed the group in June 2011.
“I formed the group because there is so much talent in Mamelodi,” she told Rekord.
“I felt I had to do something before all that talent went to waste.”
Mabotja said she also wanted to get children off the streets away from crime that could destroy their futures.
“We started with only five young boys and girls in 2011.
“In 2013, the group released their first album called Koloi ya Molelo. Two years later, they entered Miss Cultural Indos in Durban and went all the way to the finals.”
The group never looked back and today, they are known all over the country.
In 2017, they released their second album called Redibatla.
Mabotja said she not only teaches the young members traditional dancing but also takes care of them.
Some of them currently stays with her at her home in the informal settlement.
Eight members of the group are from Mpumalanga, six from Hammanskraal, one is from Lesotho and the rest are from Mamelodi.
“The 10-year journey with the young people was not an easy one, but I thank God for keeping the group together and for the public’s support,” she said.
“Their passion kept us going even though we are still struggling with travelling.”
The group is currently working on their third album which would be released soon. They have a hit single called “Corona”.
Lorraine Maida (29) said joining the group in 2018 was a life-changing experience for her.
“The group has helped me to stay off the streets,” said Maida.
Anyone who wished to help the group with transport or with traditional clothing can contact the group on 072 786 6786.
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