Ciara Awards Dance Contest Winner $20K and Music Video Role
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Ciara, the renowned R&B star, recently celebrated the “power of dance” by awarding the winner of the Dance Icon competition a cash prize of $20,000 along with a role in one of her upcoming music videos. The event, held in partnership with Colossal in Phoenix, Arizona, saw the participation of over 100,000 talented dancers, ultimately raising over $2.5 million for communities in need. The competition’s winner, Lexington Suttle, who had been dedicated to dancing for 16 years, expressed her joy at the win, stating that it proves one can achieve success from any background as long as they have a strong motivation.
Ciara and her husband Russell Wilson’s foundation, the Why Not You Foundation, collaborated with Colossal to organise the competition, which showcased dancers performing elaborate routines inspired by Ciara’s songs. The finalists exhibited versatility, creativity, and determination in their performances, impressing both the audience and the judges. Ciara emphasised the significant role that dance plays in her artistic identity, highlighting how it serves as a source of inspiration and a creative outlet for self-expression. She underlined the importance of recognising dancers as artists in their own right and acknowledged their valuable contribution to the entertainment industry.
Reflecting on the competition, Ciara expressed her enthusiasm for celebrating the art of dance and the impactful work being done by Colossal and the Why Not You Foundation. She highlighted the foundation’s commitment to empowering youth through education access, children’s health initiatives, and girl empowerment programmes. The funds raised from the competition will further support these initiatives, contributing to the foundation’s mission of fighting poverty and fostering a spirit of ‘why not you?’ among individuals.
As a Grammy-winning artist, Ciara shared her belief in the transformative power of dance and its ability to bring people together. She commended the global dance community for its enthusiasm and commitment to creating positive change through collective action. Ciara reiterated her dedication to supporting and celebrating dancers, recognising their essential role in enhancing live performances and music videos. She emphasised that when individuals come together through dance, remarkable things can happen, showcasing the unity and impact that artistic expression can generate.
Colossal, a nationally registered professional fundraiser, aims to inspire advocacy for those in need, aligning with the values of the Why Not You Foundation in empowering communities and addressing social challenges. With a shared vision for creating positive change through dance and philanthropy, Ciara and Colossal have successfully engaged the public in supporting meaningful causes. The Dance Icon competition stands as a testament to the universal appeal of dance and its potential to drive significant impact, underscoring the importance of artistic collaboration and community involvement in effecting positive change.
In conclusion, Ciara’s dedication to championing dance as a powerful form of expression and philanthropy serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and activists. By leveraging her platform and resources to support meaningful initiatives, she brings attention to important social issues and encourages others to embrace their creative potential for positive change. Through initiatives like the Dance Icon competition, Ciara continues to uplift and empower individuals, showcasing the transformative influence of art and collective action in making a difference in the world.