Oti Mabuse has shared a moment with fans she 'never in her wildest dreams' thought would happen as she made a rare appearance alongside her family.
The former Strictly Come Dancing star received the Freedom of the City of London on Tuesday (July 22). The proud South African has been recognised for her "significant achievements in contemporary dance and her charitable work".
Oti's successful dancing career has seen her win the South African Latin American championships eight times, while she is also one of the most successful professionals to have appeared on BBC’s Strictly, having won the show two years in a row before her exit in 2022.
Following her recognition, Oti, who attended a ceremony at Guildhall with family and friends, including her daughter, took to social media with a string of images as she reflected on the special day.
Alongside the post, the former Dancing on Ice judge shared: "Today was such a precious day. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that a girl from South Africa, who just had a dream to dance around the world, would make it to the UK and receive such a prestigious honor, 'The Freedom of the City' for contributions to dance and all my charity work throughout Uk and RSA.
"If this isn’t a sign for you to follow your dreams, no matter what, I don’t know what is. All of the no’s I’ve received throughout my journey have brought me to this moment."
Oti added: "I want to take this opportunity to thank my family, my friends, and my amazing team for all the love and support they give me day in and day out. I also want to thank all of you out there who cheer me on every day and have supported me all these years."
The messages of love and support then came flooding in. Strictly It Takes Two host Janette Manrara said: "Congratulations baby!!" Strictly 2016 winner Ore Oduba replied: "Omggggggg Oti!!!! What a proud day!! Congratulations, I’m so so happy for you."
Strictly pro Nancy Xu cheered: "Yesssss girllll." BBC Radio 1 star Melvin Odoom shared: "Congratulations Oti Oti!!!!" I'm A Celebrity 2024 co-star Dean McCullough: "I’m so so proud of you and everything you have achieved. Love you so much."
