By Alieu Ceesay
In a historic milestone for The Gambia, dancers Mariama Camara and Abdul Rahma Soaccor made their international debut at the Acrobatic Rock ‘n’ Roll World Championship in Abu Dhabi in December 2024, followed by a stunning semifinal finish at the World Cup in Dakar this March. Stepping onto the global stage for the first time, the duo carried the pride of their nation under bright lights and roaring crowds, performing a dance style they had only recently mastered.
“My experience traveling across borders to compete as a professional dancer on a global platform was incredible,” Mariama Camara told The Alkamba Times: “I learned so much and grew both personally and professionally.”
The competition, hosted by the World Federation of Acrobatic Dances and Dance Sports, marked The Gambia’s entry into the high-energy world of Acrobatic Rock ‘n’ Roll—a blend of dance and gymnastics that demands precision and flair. Despite their newcomer status, the Gambian team held their own, reaching the semifinals in Dakar and inspiring hope for the future of dance in their homeland.
“This opportunity can inspire other dancers in The Gambia to believe in themselves and chase their dreams internationally,” said Ndey Fatou Jabang, Chief Executive Officer and Creative Director of Flex Fuzion Entertainment and Dance Academy, which supported the team’s journey. “It proves that with dedication, we can compete with the world’s best.”
The road to success was far from smooth. With just three months between the two events, the dancers faced significant challenges, including limited funding and a lack of proper training facilities. “Acrobatic Rock ‘n’ Roll requires gymnastic skills, but we didn’t have a standard space to train,” Jabang explained. “We also struggled to cover travel and per diem costs.”
Undeterred, the team turned obstacles into opportunities. They improvised with online coaching from a Russian instructor and leaned on teamwork and determination to refine their skills. “Dance is physically demanding, but we pushed beyond our comfort zones and gave it everything,” Jabang added.
Their perseverance paid off, and their story is now a rallying cry for young Gambians. “Never underestimate your potential,” Jabang urged aspiring artists in a phone interview with TAT. “Whether it’s dance or another passion, pursue it with resilience. The road may be tough, but we can achieve greatness with hard work and belief.”
The team’s international exposure has sparked a broader vision: a thriving Gambian dance community that competes globally and carves out its own identity. “Competing in Abu Dhabi and Dakar transformed us,” they said. It opened our eyes to new styles and standards, motivating us to push the boundaries of what’s possible in The Gambia.”
Looking forward, the dancers see their journey as a launching pad. “We have so much potential, and this is just the beginning,” they declared. “The world is waiting to see what The Gambia can bring.”
For Camara, Soaccor, and their supporters, this debut is more than a personal triumph—it’s a beacon for a new generation of Gambian dancers ready to take the stage and shine.
