Founders C. Brian Williams and Artistic Director Mfonsio Akpan share insights with BET, tracing the journey from South Africa to the global stage, where Step Afrika! has become a beacon of African American tradition and educational outreach. 

Step Afrika!, a pioneering force in the world of performing arts, is celebrating a remarkable milestone: 30 years of captivating audiences with the rich tapestry of African American heritage woven into the rhythmic art of stepping. In a candid discussion with BET, Founder C. Brian Williams and Artistic Director Mfonsio Akpan reflect on the evolution of their company and its profound impact on cultural exchange.

Founded in 1994 as the Step Afrika! International Cultural Festival in Johannesburg, South Africa, Step Afrika! emerged as a visionary initiative just months after Nelson Mandela's historic election as president. Inspired by the gumboot dance, a percussive tradition born from the labor of South African miners, Williams envisioned a fusion of art forms that would transcend borders and captivate audiences worldwide. The result was Step Afrika!, a dynamic ensemble dedicated to the preservation and propagation of stepping—an art form deeply rooted in African American culture.

Since relocating to the United States in 1996, Step Afrika! has garnered acclaim for its groundbreaking performances, earning the distinction of entertaining three U.S. presidents. From a surreal rendition at former President Barack Obama's Black History Month reception to a historic showcase at President Joe Biden's Juneteenth celebration, Step Afrika! has graced prestigious stages, including the hallowed halls of the White House.

At the heart of Step Afrika!'s mission lies a commitment to education and cultural exchange. As a non-profit organization, they tour nationally and internationally, using stepping as a powerful educational tool. Through residencies, workshops, and interactive experiences, Step Afrika! empowers communities to embrace the rhythm of their heritage while fostering a deeper appreciation for African American contributions to the arts.

Artistic Director Mfonsio Akpan, who joined Step Afrika! in 2005, highlights the company's innovative approach to storytelling. Drawing inspiration from Jacob Lawrence's Migration Series—a seminal work depicting the Great Migration of African Americans—Step Afrika! crafted a home performance series that brings historical narratives to life on stage. By merging performing arts with visual storytelling, they offer audiences a compelling glimpse into the tapestry of American history.

Delving into the origins of stepping, Williams and Akpan shed light on its deep-rooted connection to African American heritage. Tracing its lineage to the Stono Rebellion of 1739—a pivotal moment in the struggle for freedom—stepping emerged as a testament to resilience and creativity in the face of oppression. Through their research and performances, Step Afrika! seeks to illuminate the cultural significance of stepping, bridging past and present with each electrifying step.

As Step Afrika! embarks on a 60-city tour across the nation, they continue to share the legacy of stepping with audiences far and wide. From the Deep South to the West Coast, their performances serve as a living testament to the power of art to unite, educate, and inspire. With each rhythmic beat, Step Afrika! reaffirms its commitment to preserving African American traditions and fostering cultural understanding in an ever-evolving world.

In celebrating 30 years of artistic excellence, Step Afrika! invites audiences to join them on a journey through history and culture—one step at a time.