Early Life and Family Background
Sharlot Kawesa Shanta, widely known as Shanta, was born on November 30, 1994. She was raised in Mbarara, Uganda, specifically in Kihindi Cell, in a family of five siblings—four girls and one boy. Shanta describes her family as a cultural cocktail, with roots spanning Uganda (Mufumbira from Kisoro), the Democratic Republic of Congo (Kisangani), Cameroon (Yaoundé), Ghana, Tanzania, and Kenya.
Growing up, her home was always filled with the sounds of Lingala music, creating an environment where dance was a daily ritual. She fondly recalls performing routines on the veranda with her cousins and friends, unknowingly setting the foundation for her future career.
Education and Move to Kampala
Shanta moved from Mbarara to Kampala to further her education. While in high school, she actively participated in music, dance, and drama (MDD), the Interact Club, and inter-school sports leagues, especially basketball. She later graduated from Uganda Christian University (UCU) with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration and Management.
Her professional journey began with roles at Exquisite Solution (Qsource Company) and Stanbic Bank. However, after her tenure ended in 2018, she found herself at a crossroads, leading her to fully embrace her passion for dance.
Professional Dance Career
In 2019, Shanta officially launched her professional dance career by joining the ‘IAM FEMALE’ dance project under the RVC Dance Crew, which performed at the Uganda National Theatre. This breakthrough opened doors to the wider entertainment industry, landing her ad campaigns for brands like Tusker Lite, Bell Lager, and Club.
Shanta expanded her expertise by becoming a physical fitness instructor in schools and, during the COVID-19 pandemic, organizing community fitness programs. Her versatility in dance styles—ranging from Hip-hop to African contemporary, urban, and Afro—has set her apart in the industry.
Inspirations and Artistic Growth
Shanta draws inspiration from her surroundings, emotions, and artistic influences such as The Tabu Flow, Levy Elasu, Kinjaz, Muiz, and Baracka Dancers. Working alongside creative minds has allowed her to refine her craft and explore different dance disciplines.
Collaborations with Ugandan Artists
Shanta has worked with some of the biggest names in Uganda’s music industry, featuring as a vixen in music videos and participating in viral dance challenges. Some of the top music videos she has featured in include:
- Don’t Go Alone – Aloe Blacc
- Buba – Maurice Kirya
- Kimuli Kyange – Vinka ft. Mudra
- Omuti – Charly na Nina
- Tweyagale – Eddy Kenzo
Stage Performances
Shanta’s stage presence is unmissable, and she is known for her dynamic energy and audience engagement. Her most notable performances include:
- Sheebah Karungi’s two-day concert at Kampala Serena Hotel (2022)
- Sheebah vs Cindy Sanyu Battle at Kololo Independence Grounds (2023)
- Sheebah Karungi’s Neyanziza concert as head dancer (2024)
- Rema Namakula’s Clear concert (2020)
- B2C Entertainment’s first concert (2018)
- Iryn Namubiru’s Timeless concert (2024)
- Spice Diana’s concert at Lugogo Cricket Oval (2023)
Acting and Theatrical Pursuits
Beyond dance, Shanta has ventured into acting and theatrical performances. She trained with the Batalo East Academy, merging traditional and urban dance styles, and gained advanced technical knowledge through the UMDA dance network program under UNESCO.
Her acting credits include:
- NAMBI: The Shield Maidens – A dance production showcased at the Uganda National Theatre
- Gemini – A contemporary dance piece performed at Batalo East amphitheater in Butaleja
- HER – A duo dance piece she choreographed and continues to showcase
- Tying the Knot – A TV series in which she plays a role
- Destiny – A movie aired on Maisha Magic
Other Roles and Future Aspirations
In addition to her artistic pursuits, Shanta works as an administrative officer for Kyamdanto Couriers, an online-based company in Köln, Germany.
She remains driven by a desire for self-improvement and hopes to expand her craft to broader international platforms. Shanta aims to educate young dancers, create meaningful artistic pieces, and use dance as a tool for storytelling and inspiration.
“I want to make art that speaks to me and be very intentional about how it is perceived. I will continue sharing my craft through teaching, performing, and creating meaningful work that feeds people’s eyes and souls. So help me God.” – Shanta
