The Holy Dance Crew gives kids and youngsters in Kampala, Uganda, a purpose in life. The dancing team was founded in 2013 by Esai Pilipili to give the young generation a more meaningful experience. With many kids joining street gangs in Kampala, this dance crew shows children there are other options in life besides being a gang member. That’s what makes them so great!
Holy Dance Crew – The Beginning
In his early years, Esai saw all of his friends become members of a gang. In fact, he said, four out of five children in Kampala were street gang members at that time. But he leaned in, even when he was bullied at school for not joining the gangs. He knew something had to be done to show future generations that there was a way out of this lifestyle.
So, instead of becoming one of the gang members, he decided to establish a dance crew at his school. Dancing was his way to fight back. The perseverance of this person attracted other kids who felt the same way. Before long, he was dancing along with friends and his younger brother. Before they knew it, the Holy Dance Crew was born.
The Dance Crew’s Success
As the founder puts it, the Holy Dance Crew’s purpose is to help people find positive connections in life, as well as a meaningful purpose in life. The crew has assisted many people in integrating into Uganda’s society.
The Holy Dance Crew has been featured on many African TV shows, including East Africa Got Talent. Esai has moved to the USA, where he continues his mission to give youngsters a purpose in life through dance. The crew has performed in many universities across the USA. Presently, members of the crew include the founder, Pascal Lwanzo, Walker Hip, Jonas Pilipili, Joffre Balume, Cris Yc, Dalva Beat, and Pascal Mudawa.