Sherrie Silver is a Rwandan-born British choreographer, dancer, actress, and philanthropist renowned for her dynamic fusion of African dance styles with contemporary choreography. She gained international acclaim for her work on Childish Gambino’s groundbreaking 2018 music video “This Is America,” which earned her the MTV Video Music Award for Best Choreography. As the first African choreographer to win in that category, Silver has used her platform to celebrate African culture while advancing humanitarian causes across the continent.
Her career spans high-profile collaborations with global artists, brands, and organizations. Silver serves as a United Nations IFAD Advocate for Rural Youth and founder of the Sherrie Silver Foundation, dedicating herself to empowering young people through the arts and education. Her journey from a childhood marked by loss and migration to global influence embodies resilience, creativity, and a deep commitment to giving back.
Sherrie Silver Early Life
Sherrie Silver was born on July 27, 1994, in Rwanda, specifically in the Huye District. Her birth came just one month after her father was killed during the Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994. Raised by her mother, Florence Silver, she experienced the challenges of post-genocide Rwanda in her earliest years.
When Silver was five years old, she and her mother relocated to London, England, seeking a new beginning. This move exposed her to diverse artistic opportunities. She attended Stagecoach Theatre Arts school, where she trained in acting, singing, and dance. At age 11, she co-founded the dance group Children of Destiny. The group performed for Rwandan President Paul Kagame during his visit to London, marking an early highlight in her performing career.
These formative experiences shaped Silver’s identity. She drew strength from her mother’s resilience and the supportive arts programs available in the UK, many of which were free or affordable. This background later fueled her passion for making arts education accessible to underprivileged youth.
Sherrie Silver Education
Silver pursued higher education in the United Kingdom while building her dance career. She studied business and marketing at university, gaining practical skills in self-promotion, project management, and entrepreneurship. This academic foundation proved invaluable as she navigated the competitive entertainment industry and launched her own initiatives.
Her education combined formal learning with hands-on experience. As a teenager, she filmed, edited, and uploaded Afro-dance tutorials to YouTube. This self-directed learning helped her refine her style and build an audience. The business knowledge she acquired supported her transition from performer to choreographer and creative director.
Sherrie Silver Career
Sherrie Silver’s career began with YouTube videos showcasing African dance moves. Her channel grew popular, attracting millions of views and leading to professional opportunities. She taught workshops worldwide and performed with various artists, blending traditional African styles like Gwara Gwara, Shaku Shaku, Azonto, and Alkayida with modern choreography.
Her breakthrough came in 2018 when Childish Gambino’s team contacted her after seeing her online work. Silver choreographed and appeared in the music video for “This Is America.” The video featured joyful, energetic group dances by children and a choir contrasting with themes of chaos and social commentary. She incorporated African moves and collaborated closely with Donald Glover on his solos. The video went viral, and Silver also contributed to its Saturday Night Live performance.
This success opened doors to major projects. Silver has choreographed or performed for artists including Rihanna, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Harry Styles, Lady Gaga, Cardi B, Nicki Minaj, Rita Ora, and OneRepublic. She contributed to commercials for brands like Nike, Google, Apple, Vodafone, H&M, Target, Whole Foods, TurboTax, and Chobani. Her work extends to fashion films for Vogue and Victoria’s Secret, and television appearances.
As an actress, Silver has appeared in films and TV. Notable credits include Africa United (2010), Guava Island (2019) starring Donald Glover and Rihanna, and roles in projects like Hunters and The Big Narstie Show. She has also directed and created dance content.
Silver’s multi-style approach brings unique cultural flavor to every project. She continues to teach, create, and innovate, often traveling extensively for work and philanthropy.
Notable Choreography and Appearances Silver’s key works highlight her versatility: Childish Gambino “This Is America” music video and SNL performance. Music videos for Afro B feat. French Montana “Joanna,” OneRepublic “Rescue Me,” Badshah “Mercy,” and others. Commercials and campaigns for Nike, Google Pixel, Victoria’s Secret, and more. Fashion films with Gigi Hadid, Bella Hadid, and Lady Gaga. Performances and choreography for global events and artists like Wizkid and Burna Boy.
Sherrie Silver Personal Life
Silver maintains a relatively private personal life focused on family and humanitarian work. She shares a close bond with her mother, Florence, often expressing gratitude for her support. She has not publicly detailed romantic relationships or marriage, prioritizing her career and foundation.
Her life revolves around travel between the UK, Rwanda, and other countries. She balances demanding schedules with a commitment to community. Silver draws inspiration from her Rwandan roots and uses her success to uplift others, viewing dance as a tool for healing and empowerment.
Sherrie Silver Awards
Sherrie Silver has received recognition for her artistic and humanitarian contributions. MTV Video Music Award for Best Choreography (2018) for “This Is America” — the first win by an African choreographer. Screen Nation Award for Best Performance in Film. TIME 100 Impact Award recognition for her work empowering youth. African Pride Awards honors. Shorty Awards finalist in Dance. UN appointments and accolades, including meetings with Pope Francis and WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
These honors celebrate her talent and dedication to social impact.
Sherrie Silver Net Worth
Estimates of Sherrie Silver’s net worth vary, typically ranging from around $100,000 to $500,000 USD, based on her work in choreography, performances, endorsements, and other ventures. Figures are approximate and reflect earnings from a multifaceted career rather than public disclosures. Her income supports both professional projects and extensive philanthropic efforts.
Conclusion
Sherrie Silver’s story illustrates the power of talent, perseverance, and purpose. From a tragic beginning in Rwanda to international stages, she has transformed personal challenges into a force for cultural celebration and positive change. Through choreography that bridges continents and a foundation that nurtures young talent, Silver continues to inspire. Her work reminds us that art can entertain, educate, and uplift communities. As she builds toward future goals like a permanent talent center in Rwanda, Silver remains a beacon of African excellence on the global stage. Her legacy will likely include not only memorable dances but also empowered generations who follow in her footsteps.
FAQs
What is Sherrie Silver known for?
Sherrie Silver is best known for choreographing Childish Gambino’s “This Is America” music video, which won an MTV VMA. She is also recognized for promoting African dance and her philanthropic work.
Where was Sherrie Silver born?
She was born in Rwanda in 1994, later moving to London at age five.
What awards has Sherrie Silver won?
Her notable award is the 2018 MTV VMA for Best Choreography. She has also received Screen Nation and other recognitions for performance and impact.
Does Sherrie Silver have a foundation?
Yes, she founded the Sherrie Silver Foundation to support youth in Rwanda through arts, education, housing, and healthcare.
What movies has Sherrie Silver appeared in?
She has featured in Africa United (2010) and Guava Island (2019), among other projects.
How does Sherrie Silver give back?
Through UN advocacy, dance workshops, building homes, healthcare support, and her foundation, she focuses on rural youth and African development.