BY NELIWE NGUBANE
MBABANE – Siphosethu Mlotsa’s outstanding performance at the Dance World Cup in Dublin, Ireland, is proving that Eswatini’s young talent can compete with the world’s best, placing the Kingdom firmly on the international dance map.
The young dancer made history after scoring 79.9 per cent and finishing 15th in the Junior Solo Street Dance category, earning Eswatini’s highest score at the 2026 Dance World Cup Championships. Competing against thousands of dancers from across the globe, her achievement has become a source of national pride and inspiration for the country’s growing performing arts industry.
Speaking after returning home, Siphosethu said the warm welcome she and her teammates received reminded her that they had represented more than themselves.
“It feels good to be back home, and I’m really appreciative of the love and support people are showing me and my teammates. It speaks of the hard work we put in as we represented Eswatini at the Dance World Cup,” she said.
While she admitted she had initially hoped for a higher placing, she now recognises the significance of her achievement.
“At first I felt really sad because I had hoped for much better results. I now feel really good and proud of my achievements. I gave it my all and for that reason I am really proud of myself,” she said.
Beyond the result, Siphosethu believes the experience demonstrated that Eswatini has the potential to produce dancers capable of competing internationally, provided they receive the right training and support.
Training under Talent N Motion Academy coach Velile Dube, she spent months preparing despite only being able to attend rehearsals on Saturdays due to boarding school. Additional coaching from Gifted Kosie helped sharpen her stage presence, while faith gave her the confidence to perform on one of the world’s biggest dance stages.
“One of my grannies told me that before going on stage I should say, ‘Holy Spirit, let’s go dance.’ That made me feel calm. So many people were praying for me, and I was praying too. I believe God gave me the confidence I needed,” she said.
The 10-year member of Talent N Motion Academy also reflected on the lessons she brought back to Eswatini.
“Interacting with other dancers taught me that dance is about enjoying it and dancing because you love it. Awards are only a bonus. I also learnt how much preparation goes into competing at this level, and those lessons will help me prepare even better if I get another opportunity,” she said.
Proud to have carried the national flag, Siphosethu said representing Eswatini was one of the greatest honours of her life.
“I am proud to be a Swazi. I carried my country’s flag with pride, knowing who I am,” she said.
Her success is expected to inspire a new generation of young dancers to pursue international opportunities and reinforces the growing impact of Eswatini’s creative industry on the global stage.
Looking ahead, Siphosethu hopes to earn a scholarship to study at an international arts school while continuing to represent Eswatini and collaborate with artists and brands around the world.
“Your dreams are valid. Pursue what you are passionate about. Don’t stop believing in yourself and keep working hard. If I could do it, you too can do it,” she said.
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(Courtesy Pic)
