In a Kigali dance studio, a group of young Rwandans are gathered, moving to the rhythm of music and laughter. For some, this is more than just a hobby - it's a chance to turn their passion into a profession. Among them is Sherrie Silver, a renowned choreographer and dancer who has made a name for herself globally. Born in Rwanda in 1994, Sherrie moved to the UK with her mother at the age of five, where she grew up surrounded by the arts.
Sherrie's love for dance was evident from a young age. She began performing at 11 and soon formed a dance group called Children of Destiny. Her big break came when the group performed in front of President Paul Kagame during his visit to the UK. This experience reinforced her conviction that dance could take her far. Sherrie's mother, despite facing financial struggles, encouraged her to pursue her passion, which eventually led to her receiving a scholarship for her education.
Sherrie's breakthrough moment came in 2018 when she choreographed the dance for Childish Gambino's hit song "This Is America." The song's powerful message, visuals, and choreography earned her an MTV Video Music Award for Best Choreography, making her the first African to win in this category. The song's success also earned a Grammy Award for Best Music Video in 2019.
Sherrie's achievement opened doors to collaborations with top artists and brands, including Rihanna, Kendrick Lamar, Disney, Nike, Apple, and Google. In 2019, she was appointed as a Special Envoy by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) to inspire young people in rural areas to explore development opportunities. Her work has also been recognized by TIME Magazine, which included her in their 2023 TIME100 Impact Awards.
Despite her global success, Sherrie remains committed to giving back to her community. In 2015, she founded the Sherrie Silver Foundation, which aims to empower young Rwandans to develop their artistic talents into sustainable careers. The foundation provides training, mentorship, and opportunities for young artists to connect with professionals in the entertainment industry.
Sherrie's initiative addresses a common challenge in Africa, where artistic talents are often seen as hobbies rather than viable career paths. Through her foundation, she seeks to change this narrative and demonstrate that artistic passions can be turned into lucrative professions. By providing support and resources, she hopes to inspire a new generation of young artists to pursue their dreams.
Sherrie's journey from a young dancer to a global choreographer is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and determination. Her story serves as an inspiration to young people around the world, particularly in Africa, where opportunities for artistic expression and career development are often limited. As she continues to empower young Rwandans and promote artistic excellence, Sherrie Silver remains a shining example of what can be achieved when talent and dedication come together.
Key points
- Sherrie Silver's foundation aims to empower young Rwandans to turn their artistic talents into sustainable careers.
