By Honorary Reporter Irina Lavrik from Russia
Photos = Smash Talent Foundation

The Uganda-based nonprofit group Smash Talent Kids Africa has gained millions of online views with cover dances of K-pop icon BTS. 

Founded by Racheal Karungi, who is now creative director, the group promotes the artistic potential of children through music, dance, acting and modeling while supporting their education and basic needs like food and shelter.

The following are excerpts from a Nov. 11 interview with Karungi on WhatsApp.

Students of Smash Talent Kids Africa in Uganda

She said Smash Talent Kids Africa stemmed from her desire for positive change in her community. As a recent graduate struggling to find work, she started teaching disadvantaged children for free. 

Her group's mission goes beyond talent development. "The main idea is to dance for education, giving young talent a platform to be trained, guided and empowered to shine locally and internationally," she added.

Students dance during rehearsals and video shoots.

Smash Talent follows a multifaceted approach to unlock each child's potential. Its "Dance for Education" principle directs all income from performances and creative projects toward children's educational needs like school tuition, uniforms and supplies.

Despite its work, the group faces major challenges including limited funding, scarce equipment and training space, difficulty securing stable sponsorship, access to performance venues and balancing creative programs with income generation. 

"We overcome challenges through community support, volunteers, creative fundraising and partnerships with like-minded organizations," she added. "For funding, we rely on sponsors and donors. For performance opportunities, we network with event organizers to give our kids a platform to shine. Despite struggles, our teamwork and dedication keep the dream alive." 

Members of the BTS fan community ARMY and students from Smash Talent Kids Africa

BTS provided an introduction to Korean culture for Smash Talent. 

"We discovered Korean culture largely through BTS. Their dedication, precision, storytelling, and blend of singing and choreography deeply inspired us. We admired how they combine heartfelt lyrics with powerful dance and meaningful visuals — it showed us how art can move people and build global connections," Karungi said. "Their work encouraged us to explore Korean culture further and bring that same energy, discipline and hope into our programs."

"Our vision is to build a dedicated arts school teaching music, dance, acting and modeling capable of training 200+ children," Karungi said. 

Smash Talent is also pursuing partnerships with Korean and international organizations for exchanges, mentorship visits, resource sharing and joint projects to enhance skills, cultural understanding and professional opportunities. 

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article was written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.