Celine Tadiwanashe Madziva: From Street Dance to National Recognition in the Dance Industry

The dance industry has evolved significantly with time, as modern dance styles continue to gain popularity among the younger generation. One emerging talent who has made a significant mark in this ever-changing world of dance is Celine Tadiwanashe Madziva, who recently won the Outstanding Female Dancer award at the 23rd National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA).

Known professionally by the stage name Celine, the young dancer’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring. From her early days as a street dancer to now being recognized as a professional, Celine’s story reflects the growth and progression of the dance scene in Zimbabwe. She credits the dance production Respect My Team for helping her gain the recognition that earned her the prestigious NAMA award.

“I started at the age of 12 during the Grade 7 school holidays, but I became a professional at the age of 16,” Celine shared. “Ciara is my inspiration from the way she moves and executes every dance. I’m intrigued every time I watch her perform.”

Celine’s journey began as a street dancer, where she would have fun with friends, sometimes performing in front of mirrors and playfully calling herself the best. “I started as a street dancer, just having fun with friends, sometimes dancing in front of a mirror and calling myself the best,” she said. “I joined a dance group in Chitungwiza near my house, and they taught me how to shape my moves and develop musicality to match songs.”

However, her path wasn’t always smooth. Celine faced physical abuse in the group due to harsh teaching methods, which led her to take a break from dancing. “I had to leave the group due to their teaching techniques, which required being beaten. I had to put a pause on dancing, but deep down, I knew a part of me was missing,” she explained. “So, I started dancing again little by little, performing for artistes even when I wasn’t getting paid.”

Celine’s determination and love for dance kept her going, and soon, she found herself working with prominent artists like Roki, Baba Harare, and Vimbai Zimuto. Her breakthrough came when she joined the Salt and Light dance group, which has been instrumental in her growth as a dancer. “They’ve helped me grow through video shoots with Annatoria, stage performances for the Zima Awards, NAMA awards, Limoblaze, and many more. I’m still with them today, and I’m happy,” she said.

Now, with the NAMA award under her belt, Celine’s focus is on expanding her reach both nationally and internationally. “My plan is to do tours and give back to the community. I also want to be able to visit other countries and show them a side of Zimbabwe that’s hidden and has so much untapped talent,” she shared.

For Celine, winning the NAMA feels like a dream come true and serves as a testament to her hard work and resilience. “It feels amazing. I was once told that I couldn’t dance, and now I’m the best female dancer. It’s a reminder that we shouldn’t let other people look down on us,” she said. “The sky is the limit.”

Celine’s story is an inspiring one—showing that through determination, passion, and resilience, it’s possible to rise above challenges and make a mark in an industry that continues to evolve with each passing day.