In the vibrant world of Nigerian dance, few figures stand as tall or as versatile as Kafayat Oluwatoyin Shafau. As a renowned dance critic, CEO of Imagneto Dance Company, judge on a popular dance show, and dedicated mother, Kafayat popularly known as Kaffy embodies the spirit of multitasking and excellence.
In a statement by Kaffy, she mentioned “ My journey started in the most unexpected way. I was a young girl with a passion for dance, performing in school plays and local competitions in Lagos. As I grew older, I realized I wanted to contribute more to the dance community, not just as a performer but also as a critic and mentor. I pursued a degree in Performing Arts and gradually made my way into the professional dance scene, where I began writing critiques and reviews.
“It’s all about time management and prioritization. I’ve learned to compartmentalize my day. Mornings are usually dedicated to my work as a CEO, managing meetings, and overseeing company operations. Afternoons are for my dance-related activities: whether it’s writing critiques, attending rehearsals, or judging shows. Evenings are family time, where I switch off from work and focus on being a mother. It’s not easy, but having a supportive family and a dedicated team at work helps immensely.”
She further stated what inspired her to take on the role of a CEO in addition to working in dance, she said “The media landscape in Nigeria is ever-evolving, and I saw an opportunity to create a platform that celebrates our rich cultural heritage, including dance. Founding my media company was a natural progression. It allowed me to combine my passion for dance with a broader vision of promoting Nigerian arts and culture. As a CEO, I can steer the company in a direction that aligns with my values and interests.
“As a judge on popular dance shows like Malta Guinness Street Dance, Project Fame Nigeria, and Maltina Dance Hall just to mention a few what we look for in contestants is authenticity and passion as these are key to an outstanding performance. I look for dancers who bring their unique personalities and stories to their performances. Technical skill is important, but what truly sets a dancer apart is their ability to connect with the audience and convey emotion through their movements. I also appreciate creativity and risk-taking; those who push boundaries often leave a lasting impression.
“Staying connected requires active engagement. I make it a point to attend dance festivals, workshops, and performances whenever possible. I also maintain open lines of communication with dancers, choreographers, and other critics. Social media has been a fantastic tool for staying updated and interacting with the community. By immersing myself in the dance world regularly, I can provide relevant and informed critiques.
“One significant challenge is dealing with the guilt that comes with not being able to give 100% to everything all the time. There are days when work demands more of my attention, and my family time suffers, and vice versa. Another challenge is the physical and mental exhaustion that comes with juggling multiple roles. However, I’ve learned to be kind to myself and understand that it’s okay to ask for help and take breaks when needed and my advice would be for one to pursue their passions relentlessly and not be afraid of hard work. Surround yourself with a supportive network, mentors, family, and friends who believe in your dreams. Also, don’t shy away from taking on multiple roles if that’s what you desire. It’s possible to excel in various fields, but it requires dedication, discipline, and a lot of resilience. Lastly, always make time for yourself and your well-being.
“I’m excited about expanding my media company’s reach and launching new projects that highlight untold stories within the Nigerian arts community. In the dance world, I’m looking forward to collaborating on international projects that bring Nigerian dance to a global audience. On a personal level, I aim to continue growing and learning, both as a professional and as a mother.
“I want to encourage everyone to find their passion and pursue it with vigour. Life is too short to do anything less than what you love. Embrace the journey, with all its ups and downs, and remember that every experience is a step towards growth. Thank you for having me, and I hope my story can inspire others to achieve their dreams.
In a world that demands versatility and resilience, Kafayat Oluwatoyin Shafau stands as a shining example of what can be achieved with passion, dedication, and an unwavering spirit. Her story is a testament to the power of balancing professional ambitions with personal commitments, inspiring many in Nigeria and beyond.”
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