Greetings from Senegal, where breakdancers are competing in the Youth Olympics
Senegalese breakdancers are preparing for the upcoming Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, which marks the first time an Olympic event is held in Africa. The dancers are incorporating traditional local styles into their routines.
Why it matters
The inclusion of breakdancing in the Olympics and its hosting in Africa represents a significant cultural milestone for the continent.
Ricci Shrylock/NPR Hip-hop music blasted over a portable speaker while half-a-dozen teenagers practiced their best breakdancing moves in Senagal's capital Dakar. They glided on their shins and jumped into the air, clutched their heels and struck midair poses.
Senegal's breakdancers were honing their craft ahead of the country's historic hosting of the Youth Olympic Games this month. It's the first time an Olympic event is being held on African soil.
I took the photo above last month as 15-year-old Suzanne Toure struck a breakdancing pose. She is the only girl on the Senegal National Sport Dance and Break Team. Three years ago, her little brother introduced her to breakdancing.
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