Children in Uganda have seen, lost and experienced things that no one should ever be exposed to. A country ravaged by an 18-year-long conflict between the Government of Uganda and the rebel group The Lord’s Resistance, has seen inconceivable human destruction through disease, separation and war. Abraham “Abramz” Tekya was only 7 years old when he lost both parents to AIDS. Left to struggle and survive on his own, Abramz became a catalyst of social change in his region. He started Breakdance Project Uganda (BPU) in 2006, a non-profit organization that has been helping heal and educate his community through breakdancing.
Ever since its creation, BPU has not only created jobs but it has acted as an escape for the children of Uganda. The program is self-sustained by the community through the passing of skills between members where the core idea is that everyone is both a teacher and student. BPU shows the capability of one man’s unexpected gift and his willingness to transform through sharing.
Breakdance Project Uganda’s journey is now the heart of the truly moving and inspiring documentary, Bouncing Cats, directed by Nabil Elderkin. It is currently showing in selected theatres.
“I am not a politician so I’m not gonna use politics. I am not a soldier, so I’m not gonna hold a gun. I’m a b-boy” says Abramz. In the end, its about counteracting conflict and struggle with more powerful weapons, education, passion and in this case, hip-hop.
