Whilst the popular misconception about Nigeria is that it is one of the underdeveloped economies in the world, our richness in creativity and artistic diversity has continued to earn us a place in the parliaments of global honours.

The past days has seen Nigerians go abuzz over the very well-deserved recognition that Lagos-based children dance group – Dream Catchers has received. Global pop star Rihanna had gotten wind of one out of their numerous dance clips after supermodel – Naomi Campbell shared their video on her Instagram page. Out of admiration for their talent and the infectious joy that they exude, Rihanna shared the video on her Instagram to celebrate a milestone of her being the first female artiste to get 2 billion streams on Apple Music. The video also caught the attention of the world’s second richest rapper Diddy, who also shared the video.

But before this international recognition, the kids were participants at the Lagos Grows Talent competition, an empowerment initiative by the Lagos State Government under the umbrella of its annual One Lagos Fiesta. From the Ikorodu centre where the kids reside, they garnered so much support which saw them get to the grand finale.

Unfortunately, they didn’t win the grand prize and this broke their little hearts but indeed, they left a huge impression on all who saw them perform including Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode. For these kids who according to their handler Seyi Oluyole were destitute, dance is like an escape from the harsh realities they were hitherto faced with before she was able to get them off the streets.

Even though their loss at the competition threatened their confidence, their resilience has earned them, their consistency has proven that the biggest battles are won by perseverance. Seyi cited that their One Lagos Fiesta experience has helped to strengthen their character.