Stepping out on trade mission to Brazil

Oct 24 2007 by Andrew Mernin, The Journal

A DANCE company run by the son of an African chief is hoping to extend its reach by stepping out on a trade mission from Tyneside to Brazil.

Newcastle-based Sakoba Dance Theatre, run by Nigerian Bode Lawal, has signed up to join a UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) visit to Brazil with the aim of landing a number of deals.

Mr Lawal, whose business performs national tours as well as hosting dance lessons, is hoping to sign contracts to take his performance tours to South America and is also looking for various sponsorship deals to work with Brazilian schools.

The Nigerian, whose father is a Yoruba chief, said: “I’m looking forward to going back to Brazil as it’s my second home and is a country which suits my style of dancing. There are also many opportunities for the company in China and India and so am planning a trip there as well.”

Up to 15 companies are expected to sign up for the UKTI’s trade mission to Brazil next February including a property developer, an engineering firm and a TV documentary maker.

Mr Lawal is also planning to invest in his own dance academy in Newcastle, but is looking for sponsorship and venues for the venture.

See page two to read more about Bode Lawal.