A cha-cha-champion

DANCING With The Stars contestant Demi Isaac Oviawe has not had an easy life. Brought here by her Nigerian parents at the age of two, she saw her mother die three years later, and her father when she was 15. She has faced down racist bullies and built a career as one of the stars of The Young Offenders comedy series.

She would be the first to admit she is not the best dancer on the top-rated dancing show, but she has thrown herself into it with gusto and fights back week after week despite what the judges say.

All this would be impressive for anyone but at just 18, preparing to sit her Leaving Cert exams, and living in a country without the support of extended family, Demi’s strength is remarkable. She says she wants to be a role model for young black women in Ireland, but in truth she is a role model for all young people in how to overcome adversity with courage and commitment.