On Saturday, February 8, 2025, Dancegod Lloyd clinched the top spot as “Dancer of the Year” at the 2nd edition of the Ghana Dance Industry (GHADI) Awards, held at the National Theater. DWP Academy won “Street Dance Group of the Year”, while Afronitaaa and Abigail both received “Dance Merit Awards” for their roles as Street Dance Culture Ambassadors.
The “Dancer of the Year” category, which sparked online controversy ahead of the event, featured stiff competition among Dancegod Lloyd, Incredible Zigi, AfroNitaaa, Endurance Grand, Ezuntey Flex, and Bboy Lyricx. Despite the competitive lineup, Dancegod’s impact within the dance space earned him the ultimate title.
DWP Academy secured the “Street Dance Group of the Year” award, beating Millitantz Dance Family, 4Bent Dance Crew, Arenees Dance Crew, Team Hubes Dance Crew, DGL Dance Crew, Flawless Dance Studio, and I AM AZONTO Dance Crew.
Meanwhile, Team Hubes was awarded “Dance Athletes of the Year (Group)”, Afrikiko Leisure Centre was named “AfroLatin Dance Club of the Year”, Agoo Cultural Group won “Traditional Dance Group of the Year”, and Let’s Dance Africa was recognized as “Praise Dance Group of the Year”.
The event, a hybrid of competitive and honorary awards, saw 22 dance icons honored for their outstanding contributions to the dance industry, including Afronitaaa, Mr. Drew, Laladzy, Abigail, and Allo Maadjoa. Among the international dance personalities recognized were Buddy Doubara Agedah (organizer of the Nigerian Afrolatin Dance Festival in Abuja and Lagos) and Prince “MIK” Ofori (organizer of the CDC Festival in Germany).
In a statement, the CEO of Dancetera and founder of the Ghana Dance Industry Awards emphasized the importance of celebrating dancers. He stated:
“After the 1st edition in 2021, we took a long break. But I can now say that the Ghana Dance Industry Awards has finally arrived. It’s been a long time coming. This moment is a moment of triumph for dancers and choreographers nationwide. What most people don’t realize is that our dancers are not just the best in Ghana or Africa, they are among the best in the world.
“They deserve to be celebrated at home for their local and global strides. We, therefore, urge all dancers to embrace the GHADI Awards and help it serve its purpose for the common good of the ecosystem. The Ghana Dance Industry Awards is designed by us, for us, and we must ensure it remains credible and relevant year after year.”
Guests were treated to a vibrant array of dance performances, carefully curated across various dance expressions. Performers for the night included NOYAM, UADT, Arenees, Black Illusion, Militantz, Flawless, 4Bent, Ballet Ghana, Let’s Dance Africa, DWP, Flames, Gh Safari, One Ghana, Omowise & Teniola, Luumva & Mavis, Milord & Elsie, Krump Ghana, House Dance Ghana, Deaf Dancers Gh, Team Hubes, Kobi Rana, and the DiAsa Queens.
Several notable figures were in attendance, including lecturers from the School of Performing Arts, University of Ghana, notably Terry Bright Ofosu (1989 National Dance Champion and Head of the Dance Department) and Dr. Artistedes Hargoe. Other distinguished guests included Adjetey Sowah (1986 World Dance Champion), Lumo Bortei Doku (AfroLatin dance grand master), Mr. Parker of Apex Ballroom, Nana Gazur (Chief), and Nana Dadzie of the Ghana Dance Association.
The Minister for Tourism, Culture & Creative Arts, Hon. Dzifa Abla Gomashie, commended the organizer for a well-executed event and pledged her support to the dance community. However, she expressed her disappointment at the absence of some industry stakeholders, saying:
“And where are the musicians? Where are the fashion people? Everything you do, dance is there with you. So why are you not here with us? Please, dance, theatre, and music go hand in hand. When we stand for you, we urge you to also stand by us.”
The red carpet segment was hosted by Xclusizive Zake (Dancer) and Essilfua Boris (TV Personality). The main awards ceremony was expertly handled by seasoned MCs Jay Foley and Chrystal Kwame-Aryee, with DJ Alinko on the music deck.
