The Noyam African Dance Institute has been honoured at the recently concluded Ghana Dance Industry Awards for its outstanding contributions to the development of African contemporary dance in Ghana.

The Ghana Dance Industry Awards seeks to recognise Ghanaian dance icons, groups, and stakeholders who have played a significant role in advancing the dance industry within the year under review.

Speaking after the event, Ghanaian choreographer and Artistic Director of the Noyam African Dance Institute, Nii-Tete Yartey, expressed that receiving the award was a profound honour and a testament to the dedication, passion, and hard work of everyone involved in Noyam’s journey.

“This recognition is not just for Noyam, but for the entire dance community in Ghana, as it highlights the importance of contemporary African dance as a vital and evolving art form. Over the past 26 years, Noyam has been at the forefront of developing and promoting contemporary African dance in Ghana,” he stated.

“This dream, which began with the late Prof. Nii Yartey, has grown into a powerful genre within the repertoire of Ghanaian dance expressions. Prof. Yartey’s vision was to create a space where African dance could evolve, innovate, and inspire, and today, we see the fruits of that vision. This award is a celebration of his legacy and the collective efforts of all the dancers, musicians, artists, and supporters who have contributed to our growth,” he added.

Nii-Tete Yartey further noted that winning the award served as a reminder of the responsibility industry players bear in continuing to push the boundaries of contemporary African dance.

“This award reinforces our commitment to artistic excellence, cultural preservation, and community engagement. It also serves as motivation to keep inspiring the next generation of dancers and artists to dream big and work hard,” he remarked.

He urged young and aspiring dancers to take their education seriously, as it forms the foundation for transforming their careers and the entire dance industry.

“By combining your artistic skills with knowledge, you can innovate, lead, and elevate the art form to new heights. Education empowers you to understand the history, theory, and cultural significance of dance, enabling you to create work that is both meaningful and impactful.

“This award is a milestone, but it is also a call to action. Let us continue to celebrate the beauty, richness, and diversity of African culture through dance. Let us keep nurturing talent, fostering collaboration, and inspiring change. Together, we can ensure that contemporary African dance remains a vibrant and dynamic force in Ghana and beyond.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey, and here’s to many more years of growth, innovation, and excellence,” Mr Yartey emphasised.