10 Years of Becoming: From the Streets to Now

In the organizer's words:

The dance performance reflects on the ten years that have passed since Samwel Japhet left the streets after living as a street kid in various cities in Tanzania for over a decade. It is a tribute to his journey from homelessness and abuse to finding belonging and meaning through dance and an excerpt from his autobiographical solo Hobeme.

In this piece, he revisits the layers of his past, the complexity of emotions, memories and growth that have made him who he is today. Through movement and storytelling, the audience is invited to witness a journey of overcoming adversity, finding a sense of belonging and rediscovering one's own story.

10 Years of Becoming is not only a reflection of Samwel's personal journey, but also a testament to all those who have grown up in a difficult environment, grappled with societal norms, found a new home and moved on with their lives.

Concept, choreography, performance: Samwel Japhet
Music: Ado Ado by Esama - Sigermaxter
Photography, film projection: Jimmy Mathias - EyeFilms

An event as part of the KUYUM Dance Platform 2025, funded by the Senate Department for Culture and Social Cohesion.