Towdah Academy: A dance platform for children in Mitchell's Plain
At just 25 years old, Tamryn Davids, founder of Towdah Academy, is creating something extraordinary in the heart of Mitchell’s Plain.
Recently, her academy presented its Dreams in Motion showcase at Three Bears Educare, filling the venue with talent, excitement, and hope.
Ms Davids, known affectionately as Trix in the community, started her academy with one simple dream: to build a stage where children could express themselves freely, safely, and with pride.
“I saw the need for a space where boys and girls could be creative. I wanted them on a stage and not the streets. A platform where they could release their emotions instead of boxing them in,” she said.
Starting was not easy. She had fears, doubts, and very limited resources. However, perseverance and her belief in the power of dance pushed her forward. A professional dancer herself, she even used her home as her first practice studio.
“People hear about death and shootings in Mitchell’s Plain. But they don’t see the abundance of talent here,” she said.
Tamryn Davids, founder of Towdah Academy speaks about the importance of creating platform for the children to express themselves while urging parents to show unwavering support to children.
Image: Siyavuya Khaya
About 250 parents attended the show. The children presented dances they’ve worked on throughout the year, drawing inspiration from Disney films and transforming those stories into choreography of their own.
They focus mainly on primary school children. To see their confidence grow is everything, she said
The atmosphere at the showcase was abuzz with excitement as children stepped onto the stage, cheered on by proud families.
Her work extends far beyond one event. She runs extra-mural dance programs at Imperial Primary and AZ Berman Primary, and has hosted community concerts at Washington Primary and AZ Berman. She also offers one-on-one coaching for competition dancers.
Many of her students come from single-parent homes or challenging circumstances, and dance has become their safe space - a place where they are seen, valued, and celebrated. Growing up in Mitchell’s Plain herself, Ms Davids said she "understands their struggles deeply."
Some of the parents at the show.
Image: Siyavuya Khaya
“I want them to know that where you come from doesn’t limit where you can go,” she said. Because of her passion, she funds most of the academy’s events herself. She believes that every child deserves a stage, no matter their circumstances.”
As the academy prepares for its end-of-year showcase, Ms Davids is reaching out for support - not just financial, but storytelling. She wants the wider community to know that amid the challenges of Mitchell’s Plain, there is beauty, resilience, and a new generation rising through creativity.
Lucricia Hartnick, mother of 11-year-old Skylon Hartnick, said she was surprised when her shy son asked to join the dance school two years ago.
“I had never seen him dance before,” she said.
“But dance has opened him up, and I’m so happy he joined.” Cayleen Geduldt, 13, from Imperial Primary, says being part of Towdah Academy has been life-changing. “I’m grateful to be here. I enjoy every moment, and I want to become a professional dancer or actress one day.