CELEB EDITION
Botswana’s dance industry is growing in leaps and bounds with so many impressive dancers to look out for.
Among such talented dancers is none other than the oh-so talented, Lesego Maie Gombo, who at only 21 years of age is dominating dance floors. In this week’s Celeb Edition, Maie takes us into the world of dance and some of the hardships she has endured.
When were you introduced to dance?
For most of my life, I focused on acting and singing. It wasn’t until 2018 when I decided to pursue dancing on a more professional level.
Which is your favourite place to dance?
I love public performances so much, although there are many restrictions about that here in Botswana. Sometimes I’m on public transport when a song comes up and I get lost and start moving and shaking.
Describe the best performance you’ve ever put on. What did you learn from it?
Gosh, there are so many! However, off the top of my mind I can recall a performance which was in Ghanzi some time back. My team and I brought the energy and we were in sync for the entire performance. Seeing the audience in touch with your performance from start to finish is the biggest reward for any performer.
Besides dance, what other careers are you looking into?
I mentioned earlier that I also sing and act so it would be nice to venture into those. Interestingly, I was really invested in my music until I quit. So, I hope I can get back into it someday because I really enjoyed it.
If you enjoy it so much, why then did you quit making music?
The story saddens me actually. What happened was I met someone who was willing to show me the ropes and help me to put my music out there. Unfortunately, he wanted sexual favours in return, which I was not willing to offer. I decided to take a break from music to pursue my other passions.
What challenges have you met since deciding to pursue dance professionally?
In Botswana, dancers aren’t taken too seriously and that is truly devastating. We still have artists who pay us peanuts yet still expect us to show up in decent outfits and give quality performances. It is hard to make a living out of dance in this country.
What advice would you give to budding dancers?
Clout and affiliating with celebrities won’t feed you and pay your bills. As exciting as it is sharing stages with these big celebrities, set your eyes on the ball, which is securing the bag for the craft you put out. How do you keep yourself strong in low moments?
I always turn to music that is uplifting and encouraging.
Any song you are listening to on a loop?
I am currently obsessed with Rihanna’s Lift Me Up. It is such an emotional song that stirs up my emotions and awakens my spirit. I have actually been meaning to do a cover of that song.
Are you an early riser or a night owl?
Definitely a night owl. Most of my gigs are late night gigs and so I have gotten used to staying up late meditating and just being in my thoughts late at night when I am not working.
Mention three things which would be red flags in a relationship.
• I won’t stand a cheat
• An untidy guy is a red flag, too
• I can’t stand being disrespected
Three things in your bucket list?
I really want to open a dance studio; I wanna see myself performing alongside Hope or Kananelo from SA and, lastly, I want to have an institution that mentors young kids.
Five things people don’t know about you?
1. I play football
2. I am in a relationship
3. I am really moody
4. I have a personal designer
5. I love drawing