Professional dancer Richael Achempim has opened up about the challenges women face in Ghana’s dance industry, describing it as male-dominated with limited opportunities for females.
Speaking on Vibes Central on Bullet TV hosted by Melody Abena Pessey and Eugene Evans Arthur, Richael said her journey into dance started at a very young age during her primary school days. She took part in school performances and church activities, where she began choreographing and building confidence.
Her passion grew stronger when she joined a dance group at church. She later auditioned and was selected to represent her church in competitions. According to her, that experience shaped her early career and pushed her to take dance seriously.
Richael eventually joined the DWP Academy, where she received professional training. She explained that the process was not easy, as dancers had to go through intense auditions and continuous assessments to remain in the group.
Despite her growth, she noted that female dancers often face challenges that are not visible to the public.
“One of the biggest realities is that when the job is very demanding, especially involving stunts or strong physical moves, the boys are often chosen,” she said.
She added that although some female dancers have the ability to perform such moves, they are sometimes overlooked due to assumptions about their strength or safety.
Richael also pointed out that the small number of women in the industry affects opportunities. In some cases, she said, female dancers are selected simply because they are needed to balance performances, not necessarily because they are the best.
“It’s not always about skill. Sometimes they just need ladies in the group,” she explained.
However, she believes female dancers must keep improving themselves and speak up when necessary. She encouraged women in the industry to train harder and prove their abilities.
Richael concluded that while the industry is gradually changing, more effort is needed to ensure equal opportunities for women in dance.
