Buddy Doubara Agedah is a visionary force in the world of dance, combining creativity, culture, and community impact, who has spent over two decades revolutionizing the dance scene in Nigeria and across West Africa.

From humble beginnings to becoming a prominent name in the Afro-Latin dance industry, his journey is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose. With a career that seamlessly blends artistry, entrepreneurship, social advocacy, and his unwavering commitment to using dance as a tool for social change.

A Journey Rooted in Passion and Determination

Buddy's love for dance began in 2002 during his student years at Rives State College of Arts and Sciences (now Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic), where he balanced his accounting studies with his role as Secretary General of the National Union of Bayelsa States Students.

Despite his academic commitments, his passion for dance flourished through his involvement with the Spirit of David Gospel Dance Club and House on the Rock, where he excelled as a choreographer, dancer, and director.

His bold move to Lagos marked a turning point as he joined the Lagos branch of the Spirit of David Gospel Dance Club and the Society for the Performing Arts in Nigeria (SPAN). He contributed to building the first privately owned dance studio in Ikoyi, Lagos, and played a pivotal role in fitness dance activities and private dance classes, enriching the dance community.

Pioneering Social Dance and Entrepreneurship in Nigeria

In 2004, Buddy founded Dance & Art Alive, a company that redefined social nightlife by offering an alternative to traditional entertainment. Through his innovative concept of combining dining, dancing, and social interaction, he created a unique space for people to bond, learn new dance moves, and enjoy themselves without the pressure of conventional fitness routines.

His monthly events, like Salsa Alive 1-10, fostered a community of dance enthusiasts who bonded over their shared love of movement and music.

Buddy’s entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly in 2005 when he organized the British American Tobacco-sponsored Merengue event, his first major initiative under Dance & Art Alive. This event not only showcased his talent for event planning and choreography but also attracted sponsorships from leading brands like La Casera, Coca-Cola, and Red Bull. His success continued with the creation of the La Casera Salsa Splash show in 2006, further solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in the Nigerian dance industry.

Mentorship and Opportunities for Upcoming Dancers

Buddy has played a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of dance talent. In 2007, he selected ten exceptional salsa dancers from Nigeria for a cross-border performance in Ghana, which paved the way for annual cultural exchanges until 2024. These opportunities not only showcased the dancers’ skills but also provided international exposure, helping them establish successful careers in the industry.

As the Founder and Director of the West Africa Afro Latin Dance Festival, Buddy created a platform for young dancers to train, perform, and network with international professionals.

Annually he carried the best Afro-Latin dancers in Nigeria to other international festivals in Benin Republic, Togo, Ghana, and Ivory Coast. The festival continues to be a hub of creativity, mentorship, and cultural exchange, empowering upcoming talents to pursue their dreams.

An Esteemed Dance Judge and Cultural Influencer

Buddy’s expertise and integrity earned him a spot as a judge on the Maltina Family Dance All reality TV show in 2009, a group dance competition in Ivory Coast in 2014, and several dance competitions, where he evaluated and guided talented family dance groups. He also served as an instructor on Spirit of David's TV reality show, Celebrity Takes 2, which showcased celebrity dance performances and contributed to the growing popularity of dance entertainment in Nigeria.

His role as a judge and mentor extended beyond television as he continued to provide guidance to emerging dancers, fostering a community of excellence and creativity. His commitment to nurturing talent has solidified his status as a respected figure in the dance industry.

An International Impact and Cultural Exchange

Buddy’s influence extends beyond Nigeria's borders. He led dance tours in Ghana, Burkina Faso, Kenya, South Africa, and the United Kingdom, fostering cultural exchange and showcasing the richness of Afro-Latin dance. His leadership with Dance & Art Alive and Spirit of David Gospel Dance Club's missionary tours further cemented his role as a cultural ambassador.

Advocacy Through Art

Buddy has leveraged his platform to champion social causes, integrating health advocacy into his dance initiatives. In collaboration with Sebeccly Cancer Care Foundation and Green Field Cancer Care, he provided free breast cancer screenings at major dance festivals, raising awareness and ensuring early detection. His efforts have saved lives, demonstrating the power of art as a tool for social change.
Accolades and Recognitions

Buddy's contributions have earned him numerous awards, including:

(1) Ghana Dance Merit Award for Afro Latin Dance Development in West Africa (2025)

(2) Recognition Award for Excellence and Consistency in Promoting Afro-Latin Dance in
West Africa (2024)

(3) Award for Excellent performance in Benin Republic (2024)

(4) National Recognition Award by NALCON (2023)

(5) Recognition Award by Lagos State Governor for QDANCE Company (2022)

(6) Dance Associate Award by Guild of Nigerian Dance Practitioners (2021)

(7) Special Recognition Award by Society for the Performing Arts in Nigeria (SPANFEST
2017)

A Legacy of Dance, Mentorship, and Community Impact

Buddy Doubara Agedah continues to inspire through his innovative approach to dance, dedication to cultural exchange, and commitment to social advocacy. His journey reflects a deep passion for dance as a powerful medium of expression and transformation.

He is the founder of Dance & Art Alive and the West Africa Afro-Latin Dance Festival, platforms that have revolutionized social dancing and cultural exchange in the region. Buddy is also a passionate advocate for health awareness, using his art to promote critical social causes such as cancer prevention and education.

As a mentor and judge, Buddy has played a key role in nurturing young talent, creating opportunities for upcoming dancers to thrive in the industry.

Buddy's story is not just about dance but about using art to bridge communities, empower individuals, and make a positive impact on society. His legacy is a testament to the transformative power of passion, creativity, and purpose.