Dancers are not really celebrated in Nigeria – Hilary Jackson

Delta State-born Hilary Chinoso Uzorka, popularly known as Hilary Jackson, is the winner of the Lucozade Boost Freestyle Season 2. The Business Administration undergraduate of the Lagos State University spoke with www.angeladaviesblog.blogspot.com on why he wants to create a dance industry in Nigeria.

How did you feel when you were announced the winner?
I felt on top of the world. I was really excited. That day was really awesome. There were tears of joy and I give thanks to God for announcing me because it was not easy. The Lucozade Boost Freestyle television show helped me to be a better dancer and entertainer.
What motivated you to go into dancing?
What really inspired me was that I discovered that I have that gift in me. I started dancing at the age of 12, and ever since, dance has been a profession to me and not a hobby anymore because I find pleasure in dancing. Most times, I represent my schools. When I was in secondary school and also in the polytechnic, I represented my schools in dance competitions. Right now that I am in LASU, I still represent my school in dance. Dancing encourages and motivates me to do more.
Do you have the intention of starting a dance school or club?
What is on my mind right now is creating a dance industry in Nigeria. All we have right now is Nollywood, music and comedy industry in Nigeria. We don’t really have a dance industry. Dancers are not really celebrated in Nigeria. But by God’s grace I am planning on my dance video, which will feature unique and better dance steps and moves to promote dance and to motivate young dancers to become good entertainers in the future. Right now, I am not only planning a dance group alone but also creating a dance industry, a platform for dancers to be celebrated.
You have this unique hairstyle you carry. What brought it about?
I fix weave-on most times because it is all about entertainment. Entertainment is all about freestyle; it is about doing your own style. You have to create a brand and not look common. As long as you are into entertainment, you have to look different. I like the dress style of stars like Denrele and Terry because they have a brand. My role model, the late Michael Jackson, too had a unique brand which cannot be compared with anyone else.
I also like Nkem Owoh and Emeka Ike. I like all these men I have mentioned because they are different in their own styles. They put creativity in what they do. It is not just about dancing but creativity and style. That is what entertainment is all about.
As a Lucozade Boost ambassador, what have you done so far?
I have been travelling within and outside the country representing Lucozade Boost in the world of dance and also projecting on my dance project entitled ‘Dance Boost with Hilary Jackson’. It is going to be shown on different television stations very soon.
Is there any woman somewhere or somebody you are eyeing?
No, I am single. But I know there are admirers.
What final words do you have for your fans?
I love them and by God’s grace I am going to give them the best in the world of dance. They need to be prayerful, hardworking, focused, determined and believe in themselves. Lastly, they need to trust in God.