Human beings probably danced even before there was a word for it. Rhythmic bodily movements are instinctive. It connects people, even if unconsciously, to the rhythms of nature. This has again become a reality to many youths in Zimbabwe courtesy of Plot Mhako, Jibilika founder who has continued to scale greater heights through dance. Surprisingly, he doesn’t know how to dance but he bridges the gap for dancers. Our Herald Entertainment reporter Tafadzwa Zimoyo (TZ) caught up with Mhako (PM) to understand his journey, achievements, inspiration and goals in the arts sector.

(TZ): Who is Plot Mhako and tell us about Jibilika Dance Trust?

(PM): I am 32-years-old father of one son (Ethan). I went to Glen Norah High before studying journalism at CCOSA. My passion for dancing came five years ago this then made me to change trade from the journalism to being an arts dance promoter. Jibilika Dance Trust was formed in 2007 after I saw the need to promote, nurture and develop dancing talents in youths.

I grew up sawing a group of youth practicing dance moves especially the time of “You’ve Got Saved” the movie. So far we have 50 dance groups aging from 10-30 years old, with four centres countrywide.

We do all types of dancing and it is my dream that one day, Zimbabwean dances are recognised internationally. I work with Brian Geza, Adrian Zinasi and Yeukai Zinyoro among others as some of the choreographers.

TZ: How do you describe the type of dance in Zimbabwe especially the youths and will it change the arts sector?

PM: People dance for all kinds of reasons to mourn, to celebrate, to heal, to give thanks, to preserve cultural heritage and treasured legends, to demonstrate physical prowess, to assert individuality, to provoke and to entertain. I can say that the Zim-dancehall community is much dominating especially in dancing. You will be surprised to see a three year old doing some routines that a 25-year-old can’t do.

The only problem we are having is identity. Yes we have talented youngsters but they should embrace the local dances more so as to put the country on the map.

This year at our festival we ran under the theme urban roots as a way to blend and compliment or local dance moves with hip-hop, contemporary and urban moves. To me dance has become another way of communicating as it tells a story.

TZ: What are some of your achievements and perhaps plans for 2015?

PM: 2014 was a good year as we have fully represented Zimbabwe well on some of the European tours. I have partnered with Cindy Janicke from Germany and Ugandian Antonio Burkar to form Kuenda Production which deals with promoting different styles of art, theatre and connecting Africa and Europe through dance. We also attended the Africtions festival in Germany together with Hope Masike, Probeats, Melyn Chenjerai, Kelvin Kembo, Tafadzwa Hananda and Vusa Moyo. We won the Best Positive Social impact 2013 Hip-hop awards. For 2015 we have a lot from opening a dance school in Mutare apart from creating dance network.

TZ: What are some of the challenges that you face in the sector?

PM: The greatest challenge of the all is appreciation apart from lack of resources and finances among others. Dancers are not taken seriously countrywide. They are regarded as failures in life but if you check in other countries dancing is regarded as a career which in turn sustain livelihood. Of which back home if it is appreciated it sustain livelihoods yet alone promotes tourism.

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