Johannesburg, South Africa (12 June 2025) – Give her a hip-hop beat, and Mbali Ngobela will show you moves that will leave you captivated from beginning to end.
The Johannesburg dancer is as talented as she is passionate about street-style dance, and she has now been presented with the chance to take a whole step further, to become a world champion and perfect her craft with the best in the industry.
No stranger to the international stage, Mbali proudly represented South Africa at the UDO World Championships and made it all the way to the final round in 2023.
“It was a huge accomplishment that showcased my dedication, talent, and potential. Unfortunately, despite being selected again last year, I was unable to attend due to a lack of funding,” Mbali shares.
But there is just no keeping this mover and shaker down, as Mbali has once again been selected this year to represent South Africa at the prestigious UDO World Championships event in the UK from 13 to 17 August.
The UDO World Street Dance Championships, held in Blackpool, are the height of the annual Street Dance and Hip Hop dance competition calendar and a career highlight for any rising dancer.
For Mbali, being a part of the competition represents the culmination of years of dedication and an extraordinary opportunity to showcase her talent and passion to a global audience.
“This isn’t just a trip, it’s a chance to represent my country, and show the world the power of South African hip hop,” Mbali says.
To make this dream a reality, Mbali needs to raise about R42,000 to cover essential costs including flights, accommodation, competition entry fees, visa expenses, and local transport.
She has launched a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign with hopes to raise the funds that will see her make it to the UK and show the world what she’s capable of.
“Every contribution, no matter how small, will bring me one step closer to the global stage. If you’re unable to donate, simply sharing this campaign would mean the world,” she appeals.