Francis Owusu – Founder & CEO of Kulture Break
Can you share your own YDF journey – what encouraged you to give it a go?
My journey to YDF was birthed from my exhilarating experience with Rock Ed. After diving headfirst into the competitive dance scene at the national competition, I yearned for something different—something that celebrated joy and expression rather than rivalry. Enter YDF! I first stepped onto that magical stage in 1992/3 as a student, then became the mascot in 1997 dressed in cow pants, (and I can’t believe it still up on the walls of Ausdance after all these years lol…) and finally returned in 2006 with my boyband, D’Verse. Each chapter of YDF has not only elevated my creative abilities but also filled my mind with unforgettable memories!
How has Youth Dance Fest impacted your dance practice?
At 16, YDF transformed my world! It ignited a fire within me, allowing me to express my innermost self and blossom into the confident performer I am today. I was a shy kid, but when I hit that stage, I felt my inner abilities transform into daring movements that energised me. The electric atmosphere, with hundreds of passionate students uniting to celebrate the art of dance, fuelled my spirit and inspired me to launch Kulture Break in 2002, a dance-for-well-being charity. The memories of YDF have been reignited with this year’s celebration of 40 incredible years!
As a dance mentor, how do you stay inspired and continue to grow as both a dancer and a teacher?
Inspiration is all around me! I strive to soak in the creativity of the current generation of dancers, always open to learning and evolving. I dive into my own practice, watch dance online, and embrace life as my greatest teacher. For me dance is about freedom and joy. I’ve always told my students to “never dance like they are apologising”.
