Importance of Senegal, Dakar
“Being in Senegal, in Dakar, is important. It’s also important to do things in your own country.
The tone is determined, the voice steady, the ambitions present: Dakar sounded like an obvious choice for Khoudia Touré.
“That’s where it’s happening, where there’s enormous potential. Dance is part of culture, and in Dakar there’s an enormous amount of talent, energy and desire, so that’s very inspiring. I want to create opportunities for the dancers here who train very hard.”
As a land of sport and hospitality, Senegal will welcome the world during the upcoming Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in 2026. For Khoudia Touré, Senegalese dancers will rise to the occasion.
“It’s really promising. We’re in 2024 now, so in two years, it’s going to be amazing in my opinion (laughs), because the level is already very high, and it’s only going to rise!”
With the dance sport of breaking making an Olympic debut at Paris 2024, the profile of dancing is set to rise ahead of the Youth Olympics, which will also bring added attention.
“There’s a lot going on here in Senegal right now, and the eyes of the international community are on Senegal. It’s a country that is artistically strong, culturally strong. There’s also a great tradition of sport, so we’ve got a lot going on here.
For Khoudia Touré, the YOG will be more than just a spotlight on Senegalese sports. They will have a lasting positive effect on the country.
“I think with all the potential that’s here, the YOG will have an effect that will further boost and elevate everything here. There’s also the legacy. What will remain after the Youth Olympic Games? I think there will be a lot of impact in Senegal, and it’s already begun!”
A boost comparable to another phenomenon for her is group dancing, which Olympics.com witnessed later during a nighttime class led by Touré.
“The energy from others really boosts everything we do; it brings a sense of giving our all in the present moment and living it 300%. It’s a concentrated mix of feelings, adrenaline, and pushing beyond our comfort zone and limits. That’s what’s so beautiful. That’s what makes us dance.”
This post was originally published on this site be sure to check out more of their content.
