08 Jul 2026

After qualifying through fiercely contested battles, Botswana’s best dancers will on July 11, compete for the coveted national title at Molapo Crossing, and the winner will stand a chance to represent the country at the Red Bull Dance Your Style World Final in Zurich, Switzerland, on October 24.

The 16 finalists are Yarona ‘Yaya’ Tumelo, Ditiro ‘Savage Hound’ Kapeko, Campbell ‘Velox’ Kayure, Lerato ‘Janice’ Kganguapelo, Larona ‘B-MO’ Mmusi, Itumeleng ‘Brutal’ Bosula, Frank “London” Reid, Tinashe ‘Mr Tee’ Mangiroza, Alvan-Michael ‘Michael’ Okere, Prince ‘Ultra Kluch’ Tshikare, Ella ‘Ella’ Phillip, Novea ‘Novy’ Van Wyk, Bosa ‘Sir Bosa’ Gadimorone, Archibald ‘KAIZ3N’ Gibbs, Bofelo ‘King Jozi’ Sethembeni and Lindelwa ‘Kuruk’ Ndlovu.

The winner will follow in the footsteps of previous Botswana champions who have represented the country on the international stage, most recently Malebogo “Lebo M” Mabifhi, who earned a place at the 2025 World Final in Los Angeles, USA, after being crowned Botswana’s top dancer.

Reflecting on her experience, Lebo M said competing internationally had broadened her perspective on dance and encouraged this year’s finalists to remain authentic and enjoy every moment on stage.

“The most important thing above it all is to have fun on stage, enjoy the moment and be the moment. Authenticity and staying true to your style, win or lose, is definitely a big part of growing as a dance artist,” she said in an interview.

Red Bull Dance Your Style is judged entirely by the audience, with dancers required to adapt in real time to unpredictable music selections ranging from Hip Hop, Amapiano, House and Afrobeats to global chart hits. 

Competitors are judged on their freestyle ability, originality and performance skills in thrilling one-on-one battles decided by the crowd.

In addition to the fast-paced dance competition, fans can expect a full entertainment programme featuring performances by South African hitmakers Zee Nxumalo and Sykes, while Botswana’s Mdu Tha Party will keep the energy high as the event’s official MC. ENDS