UK, Chester – In a world where the gospel is often shared through sermons and songs, Bolanle Adekoya has chosen a different form of ministry—dance.
As the founder and creative director of Celestial Steppers, she has transformed movement into a message, proving that worship can be expressed as gracefully through motion as through music.
Born and raised in Lagos, Adekoya, fondly known as Boliphy, discovered early on that her passion for dance was more than a hobby.
In 2015, within the Celestial Church community, she gathered a group of young believers with a shared vision: to spread the gospel through creative expression.
That small beginning has blossomed into Celestial Steppers, an internationally recognized gospel dance group celebrated for blending Afro-gospel rhythms, contemporary choreography, and celestial-inspired fashion into a distinctive style of worship.
Adekoya’s academic and artistic pursuits reflect her balance of intellect and inspiration.
She is a graduate of Lagos State University and currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Health at the University of Chester in the United Kingdom. Yet, despite her studies abroad, her heart remains deeply rooted in her mission to use art as a tool of evangelism.
Under her leadership, Celestial Steppers has grown from a local church ensemble to a global phenomenon.
The group’s achievements include being named Trailblazer of the Year at the Celestial Music Awards in 2022, winning the Pepsi UEFA Champions League Dance Challenge in 2023—where Adekoya represented Nigeria in Istanbul—and earning the Gold Prize at the K-Community Festival in South Korea in 2024.
These milestones have positioned Celestial Steppers as ambassadors of faith-driven creativity on the world stage.
Beyond performances and accolades, Adekoya is passionate about mentorship. Through workshops and youth programs, she trains aspiring dancers across Nigeria, encouraging them to discover purpose in their passion. Her message is simple: art can glorify God, inspire others, and transform lives.
Nearly a decade after its founding, Celestial Steppers continues to shine as a symbol of faith, discipline, and devotion. For Adekoya, dance is not just movement—it is ministry. “When we move, we tell stories of faith, of hope, of love,” she says. “Every step is a testimony.”
With her vision and unwavering passion, Bolanle Adekoya continues to prove that the gospel can move hearts—and that faith truly has rhythm.
