At first, I couldn’t say I’m from Ashaiman due to fear of losing job opportunities – Dancegod

Ghanaian dancer, Dancegod Lloyd, has opened up about the challenges he faced growing up in Ashaiman, a suburb of Accra.

The talented dancer revealed that he often concealed his background when seeking dance teaching jobs, as people had a negative perception of the community.

In an interview with Accra-based Original TV, Dancegod Lloyd shared his experience of being judged based on his background.

He said he would often change his background to Tema in order to secure job opportunities, as people would became uncomfortable when he mentioned he was from Ashaiman.

"At first, I couldn't say I'm from Ashaiman because if I say, I'll lose job opportunities. You go to people's houses, these people are well-to-do, people of class and when you go to their house to teach them, they want to know you well. Your background, where you are coming from…what if you are up to something else?" he said.

However, Dancegod Lloyd revealed that he stopped hiding his background after gaining popularity and success in his career.

"When we start talking, it's all vibe and happiness until I mention Ashaiman, and then their mood starts to change but now things have changed.

“They are proud to have an Ashaiman boy on board…it feels good, and I feel relaxed…just like Stonebwoy. Others can boldlysay that they are from Ashaiman and other slum communities," Dancegod said.

Ashaiman has over the years, been perceived as a hideout for criminals.

The success of Stonebwoy, Eno Barony, Dancegod and other natives in the entertainment industry has helped to challenge these negative perceptions.

Dancegod Lloyd is now a well-known figure in Ghana's entertainment industry, having gained recognition for his dance skills and choreography.

He has worked with several top musicians in the country, including Beyonce.