May 15th: Today’s Feature

May

Diversity

Established in 2007, Diversity is a renowned British street dance ensemble hailing from London. The group was catapulted to fame after emerging victorious in the third season of Britain's Got Talent in 2009, triumphing over notable acts such as Susan Boyle during the live finale. Diversity's unique blend of talent, creativity, and sheer determination captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Prior to being renamed Diversity, the majority of the group were members of Swift Moves or Swift Moves Juniors. As Swift Moves, they emerged victorious over KI (the crew Marlon Wallen from Flawless was a part of) in 2005, during KI's second consecutive triumph at The Jump Off. Swift Moves showcased their skills in a total of four battles during the event.

2007: Diversity

Comprising individuals from various parts of London, including Leytonstone, Dagenham, and Essex's Basildon, Diversity is a tight-knit group of family and friends. Interestingly, the ensemble at one time featured four sets of siblings alongside eight other members, creating a dynamic and diverse team. At the time of their Britain's Got Talent debut, some members were still pursuing their education, while others juggled their performances with full-time jobs.

Currently under the management of Danielle Banjo, who is the mother of Ashley and Jordan, the two prominent co-founders of the group, Diversity continue to captivate audiences with their electrifying performances. The ensemble is based at the esteemed Dancework studio, where they hone their craft and push the boundaries of street dance. Despite facing challenges along the way, including the tragic loss of former member Robert Anker in a car accident in Canada, Diversity remains a shining example of talent, resilience, and unity in the world of dance.

Continued Success & Change

It has been more than 15 years since the renowned street dance crew, Diversity, triumphed over Susan Boyle to claim the coveted Britain's Got Talent crown. Despite the passage of time, this talented group continues to thrive and captivate audiences worldwide. Leading member and choreographer, Ashley Banjo, has become a household name, gracing our screens as a judge on the popular show Dancing on Ice. Leading the crew with charisma and passion, he not only takes charge but also showcases his talents as a front-runner, director and choreographer, captivating the audience with his electrifying performances, their reaction nothing less than explosive.

While Diversity has evolved over the years, some of the original 14 members remain, having transitioned from teenage boys to accomplished men in their 30s. Their unwavering dedication and passion for their craft have propelled them to new heights of success. Alongside these seasoned performers, the crew has welcomed fresh talent into their ranks, including the exceptionally gifted young dancer, Isaac Akinyemi. Despite his tender age, Isaac's skills are nothing short of extraordinary, adding a new dynamic to the group's performances. Moreover, Diversity has also embraced the inclusion of fiercely talented women, who bring their unique flair and energy to the crew's routines.

Legacy of Love

The enduring popularity of Diversity can be attributed to a few things; their ability to push boundaries and captivate audiences with their innovative choreography and mesmerising performances. Their unique blend of street dance, contemporary moves, and storytelling has earned them a dedicated fan base that eagerly awaits their every appearance. With Ashley Banjo at the helm, this extraordinary crew continues to inspire and entertain, proving that their talent knows no bounds. As they embark on new ventures and conquer new stages, Diversity remains a force to be reckoned with in the world of dance.

The narrative of the Diversity dance troupe serves as a powerful metaphor for embracing life to the fullest, cherishing the bonds we share with our loved ones, and conquering our inner struggles. Beyond the glitz and glamour, Diversity's true strength lies in their unwavering commitment to spreading joy and positivity through their art. Their performances transcend mere entertainment, touching the hearts of individuals from all walks of life. By embracing diversity and celebrating the beauty of human connection, Diversity serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the transformative power of dance and the importance of embracing our shared humanity in love, peace and hope.