The World Cup final was always going to be a spectacle for the ages, but few could have predicted just how electrifying it would get when Uganda's Ghetto Kids took to the stage at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Sharing the spotlight with global music icons Shakira and Burna Boy, these young dance stars from Kampala brought their signature high-energy vibes to the biggest stage in football.
As Sierra, 10, summed it up: 'It was very, very, very, very, very good!' Her enthusiasm was matched by her teammates, with Josephine, 11, recalling the thrill of performing alongside Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal: 'I saw Messi! I was so happy to see him and people watching us. I felt excited and a little bit nervous.'
The genuine affection shown on stage, as the Ghetto Kids hugged Shakira and Burna Boy, was palpable – according to their manager Dauda Kavuma, it was a moment of pure emotion rather than choreographed theatre.
From humble beginnings, founded by Kavuma himself who knows what it's like to be on the streets, the Ghetto Kids have defied all odds. Starting out with homeless children and those struggling to afford school fees in Kampala, they've harnessed the community's talent through sheer determination and a clever use of social media.
It was their appearance in French Montana's 'Unforgettable' music video in 2017 that sparked it all – racking up over 1.9 billion views on YouTube and launching them onto the global stage. From there, they've conquered British and American talent shows, with performances on 'Britain's Got Talent' in 2023 and 'America's Got Talent' the following year.
But despite their rising fame, education remains top priority for these young stars – with parents and management ensuring an 'education-first' approach, keeping weekdays free from social media filming to focus on schoolwork. Even when performing abroad, they connect with teachers online to stay on top of their studies.
The World Cup final marks another significant milestone in their journey, following a string of high-profile performances, including a halftime show at Paris Saint-Germain versus Reims match in France last year where they met Kylian Mbappé. Kavuma's project has grown exponentially, now providing vital support to numerous children across Uganda – proof that success can have a life-changing impact.