Welcoming Franklin Oni-ossai and Inimfon Ekpenyong Iniama to House of Wingz

We’re beyond excited to welcome two incredible new leaders and dance teachers to the House of Wingz family: Franklin Oni-ossai (known as Iconic) and Inimfon Ekpenyong Iniama (known as Ini). Both originally from Nigeria, they bring with them not only extraordinary talent but also inspiring journeys that have shaped who they are today.

Who they are

Franklin and Ini both describe themselves as lifelong dancers. Franklin recalls discovering dance at just six years old, starting with breaking (or “breakdancing” as it was called back then). Dance became his voice when words felt difficult, helping him build confidence and express himself.

Ini shares a similar story:

“I can’t even pinpoint exactly when I started dancing because I feel like I’ve been dancing forever. I started in church, then studied Theatre and Media Studies where I trained in Nigerian traditional dances. Around fifteen, I realised dance was the one thing I was crazy about.”

For both, dance is not a hobby- it's a calling.

Their Experience

Franklin’s journey has taken him through competitions like Nigeria’s Got Talent, major stage productions, and even founding a dance academy to teach others.

Ini’s path has been equally dynamic: choreographing from a young age, winning awards, judging talent competitions, choreographing for and performing at carnivals, and even taking the stage at the Brit Awards after moving to the UK. Together, they’ve choreographed, competed, judged, and inspired countless dancers.

Why House of Wingz?

When asked why they wanted to connect with House of Wingz, Franklin and Ini spoke about the values and community they found here:

“House of Wingz is a lovely place for anyone to be. Meeting everyone made us feel like this is what we’ve been waiting for.”

They see this collaboration as a chance to share their knowledge- from Afro-fusion to hip hop, contemporary, and more- while also helping to expand House of Wingz’s platform and inspire dancers locally and globally.

What they bring to Blackpool

Franklin and Ini are passionate about contributing to Blackpool’s cultural landscape.

They are excited to offer Culture and diversity by enriching the community with new styles and perspectives. Inspiration for the next generation by encouraging young dancers to find their voice through movement and global connections by sharing Blackpool’s vibrant dance scene with audiences back in Nigeria and beyond.

As Ini beautifully put it:

“Blackpool is underrated. It’s such a lovely place to live and grow in. Through us, people in Nigeria will get to know about the beautiful community we’ve found here.”

Looking ahead

Franklin and Ini are eager to add their “spice of Afro-fusion” to House of Wingz, blending their unique styles with the company’s street dance foundation. Their vision is clear: to grow, inspire, and build a brighter future together.

We couldn’t be happier to welcome Iconic and Ini to the House of Wingz family. Their energy, experience, and passion will undoubtedly uplift our community and inspire dancers across Blackpool and beyond.