There has barely been a dance competition in Rwanda in years. Local fashion line, Urutozi Gakondo, is introducing a new dance challenge for aspiring dancers across Kigali. Dubbed ‘Urutozi Dance Challenge’, the contest is part of the fashion house’s move to not only support dance but also promote the best of its locally-made fashion products designed by its designers. Urutozi’s growth on the local fashion scene has been enjoying an incredible rise since its inception in 2020 as its collections continue to attract the attention of fashion enthusiasts in Kigali. Patrick Rukundo, one of the contest organisers, told The New Times that they brought the challenge on board to create a platform for budding dancers to showcase their talent. “There have been claims that platforms targeting to support music overlook dance yet it is an important part of the music industry. We value dance and we believe in young people aspiring to become professional dancers and that’s why we are here to help them achieve their dream through this dance challenge,” Rukundo said in an interview. “ We chose to support dance because fashion and dance at some point go together especially during certain fashion shows. Dance is a big part of music that unites so many young people, the future stars who can help our brand grow and give it bigger exposure via their future dance challenge,” he added. Registration for the contest is open to all starting Monday, October 24 and will run until October 31. Interested dancers will pass by Urutozi showroom, record a one-minute video challenge for Master KG’s song ‘Wayawaya’ and send it via WhatsApp number 0788916777 or 0788941402. The videos will be posted on Urutozi Gakondo’s Instagram page, and a contestant whose video with most views, likes and comments combined will win a cash prize of Rwf500,000 in addition to becoming their fashion house’s brand ambassador for a period of one year. The winner will be announced on November 25, at the Made in Rwanda fashion exhibition event during which Urutozi Gakondo will be showcasing the best of their locally-made collections that will be on display at the fashion house’s showroom located in Kacyiru.
