In Conversation with: Owen Chitsa

Owen Chitsa, aka Yashie is a 24-year-old Zimbabwean dancer/choreographer and soon to be artist who’s worked with many notable artists such as Winky D, Jah Prayzah, John Cole, Ammara Brown to name a few. 

When did you start dancing? 

I started pursuing my dream as a dancer in 2007. Like any other parents, my parents didn’t support my career as a dancer they believed that I could prosper and dominate with Education only. In 2010 after working with Hilary General of Elysium that’s when I started growing in my career. In 2011 John Cole took me in and started to nurture me as a dancer thereby exposing me to great opportunities in the field.

Which artists/dancers inspire you the most? 

I am inspired by Chris Brown’s dancing the most.

Who have you worked with so far? 

So far, I have worked for a lot of amazing artists like:

Winky D – Kasong Kejecha (Video)

Jah Prayzah – My Beautiful Zimbabwe (Video)

Ammara Brown-Tichichema (Video)

Alick Macheso ft Freeman-Ngaibake (Video)

John Cole – Xhexhe & Skoro Skoro (Video) 

Andy Muridzo –Gweja (Video)

Jah Signal(concert), Diamond Musica(Concert), Chengeto Brown(concert), Trevor Dongo (Video),Taku Praise(Video), Sebastian Magacha(Video), Mudiwa, Bryan Kay, DJ Stavo and Faith Candy just to name a few.

I have also done choreography and entertainment at various Weddings. Coincidentally I have choreographed for three sisters at their weddings.

Who are the rocks in your life? 

All thanks to God for the gift. I want to thank myself mostly for never giving up on myself. It’s not easy to believe in yourself against all odds. Special thanks to John Cole for the mentorship and inspiration. All the artists that have offered me the opportunities to work with them. Everyone who supports and keep me going.

How do you stay motivated? 

There is enough light under the sun for everyone to shine and grow. Follow your dreams and believe in yourself. Only you can limit yourself.

How do you prepare yourself for a new choreography?

I think first before I dance, unlike most dancers I know. They dance first based off a feeling or emotion and that way they create something that could be dope but will in turn end up disrupting their creative process. I feel the music and imagine the moves first and then I dance. That’s the main difference between me and other dancers.

How have you been keeping yourself busy during the lockdown? 

I have been working on my 3 debut music singles and it will be house music. I’m not sure when it will be released yet but watch this space.

How would you like to be remembered?

As an artist who highlighted the issues most people saw and ignored.

Social media

Instagram: yashieofficial