Carnival restores youth’s hope

“I would rather walk the streets of Crossroads naked than seeing this group dying down,” this is how Loyiso Casiwe summed up his love and passion for Imbumba Cross Dancers, one of many groups that will take part in this year’s Cape Town Carnival on Saturday 21 March.

- THULANI MAGAZI

Nolufefe Racula and Loyiso Casiwe at this year's launch.

(KAYLYNNE BANTOM)

Over 1 500 performers will showcase their talent under the theme “Follow Your HeART” on the Green Point Fan Walk in an explosion of colour and entertainment during the 16th edition of the carnival.

Casiwe, one of the lead dancers at the annual carnival, endured many years of heartache and hatred before his elevation to the top of this yearly spectacle. And he attributes his resilience and rise to his former teacher and mentor Nolufefe Racula.

The 22-year-old joined a group of young dancers while he was a learner at Qingqa Mntwana Primary School at Old Crossroads under the guidance of Racula who honed his dance moves and skills.

Little did he know that this would draw the ire of certain community members.

“People hated me and I was even called a ‘moffie’,” he tells People’s Post.

These did not deter his focus as he tirelessly strived to be the best at dancing.