MOST people would have given up after losing 80% of their skin to a life-threatening illness, but not Ora De Dancer.
The 21-year-old bacardi artist, dancer and rapper from Itsoseng Phase 6 in Soshanguve and whose real name is Oratile Douglas Legwabe, has turned pain into power and is now making waves in the local entertainment industry.
Ora’s love for music started at an early age.
“I’ve always been an artist. I wrote my first song when I was seven years old. I used to carry a pen and a book everywhere I went because I was always writing,” he said.
His life took a devastating turn while he was in grade 11 when he was diagnosed with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, a rare and potentially fatal condition.
I was admitted to hospital for 23 days. I lost 80% of my skin, had an eye infection and even lost my sense of taste. It took about a month before I could taste food again.
Returning to school wasn’t easy.
“I used to apply makeup before going to school because of the scars. I could have worn a mask, but my confidence wouldn’t allow me. I still managed to finish matric,” he said.
The young artist revealed that the emotional toll of the illness, combined with discrimination and online bullying, pushed him to dark places.
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“At times, I almost committed suicide, but it wasn’t worth it, especially after God gave me another chance at life.
“People stared at me, judged me and criticised me on social media,” he said.
As an openly gay artist, Ora said breaking into the music industry has also come with challenges.
It’s hard to find gigs as a gay upcoming artist. Sometimes you entertain people without getting paid. But I’ve learnt to fight for my brand and demand respect.
Instead of allowing the bullying to destroy him, Ora used it as motivation.
“The bullying made me stronger. It taught me resilience. Being yourself is important because people expect perfection all the time.”
Now, with new music on the way, growing success on social media and a television project in the pipeline, Ora is focused on the future.
“I see myself on billboards. I want to become the first internationally recognised gay Bacardi artist and work with stars like Makhadzi, Focalistic, DJ Karri and DJ Maphorisa,” he said.
His message to others facing hardship is simple: “It’s never too late to make it. Don’t try hard, do it smart. Respect yourself and never let other people’s opinions stop you from chasing your dreams.”
