Last Updated on November 6, 2026 by Successful Black Parenting Staff
Tsehay Hawkins became the Yellow Wiggle in 2021, and her story gives families a joyful way to talk about heritage, confidence, and seeing yourself on screen. Here is what makes her special, plus easy ways to bring that same spirit into your home.
Get ready to wiggle, giggle, and dance your socks off! For over three decades, The Wiggles have been a beloved part of children’s lives, bringing music and joy to every performance. But when Tsehay (Se-Hi) Hawkins stepped into the role of the Yellow Wiggle, she brought a whole new level of excitement and inspiration. As the first woman of color to don the iconic yellow skivvy, Tsehay isn’t just shaking things up—she’s showing kids everywhere that dreams really do come true.
Tsehay’s Story: From Ethiopia to Wiggle Stardom
Born in Ethiopia and raised in Australia, Tsehay—whose name fittingly means “sun”—has always had a love for dance and performance. Growing up, she watched The Wiggles on TV, never imagining she’d one day join their ranks. “I grew up watching The Wiggles,” Tsehay shared. “I like that I get to bring that diverse side to it. And also being Ethiopian, our necks move a lot. And people always notice and call me like the head bubble wiggle. And I’m like, well, it’s part of my culture because my neck’s always moving.”
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Her journey to becoming a Wiggle began with her jaw-dropping skills as a world-champion Latin dancer. After joining as a backup dancer in 2021, Tsehay quickly rose to prominence. “I literally took photos in the yellow skivvy that day. And then the next day it was announced to the world that I was the Yellow Wiggle. So a very, very fast process,” she recalled. Talk about a whirlwind!
Why Tsehay Matters: Representation That Inspires
Representation in children’s media matters and Tsehay is living proof of its importance. As the first Black female Wiggle, she’s giving kids of color someone who looks like them to look up to. “When I first joined, I saw little girls dressing up as me with their natural curls and saying, ‘She looks like me!’ That’s the power of diversity,” Tsehay said with a smile.
Her presence sends a powerful message: “If you can see it, you can be it.” Tsehay’s performances showcase her heritage and passion, whether she’s teaching kids to salsa or wiggling her way through a high-energy number. She’s not just a Wiggle; she’s a role model for children worldwide.
The Magic of Music and Movement
Why do kids love The Wiggles? It’s more than the colorful outfits and catchy tunes—it’s the way their songs connect music and movement to learning.
Tsehay explains, “In our songs, we teach kids how to clap, dance, and move their bodies. These might seem like small things, but for many parents, they’re major milestones.” From improving motor skills to fostering creativity and emotional well-being, dancing and singing are critical for child development. Plus, let’s not forget the sheer joy of wiggling around the living room!
The Wiggles Are Coming to Town: 2025 Bouncing Balls Tour
Mark your calendars and get your wiggling shoes ready! The Wiggles are hitting the road in 2025 with their “Bouncing Balls Tour.” Starting in the UK and bouncing over to the U.S. in June, the tour promises to be a high-energy extravaganza for kids and parents alike.
“We love visiting America,” Tsehay said. “We’ve got a huge tour lined up, starting in Seattle and wrapping up in Boston. We can’t wait to wiggle with you all!”
Parents can visit The Wiggles’ official website or follow them on Instagram for tour dates and ticket info. Whether it’s your child’s first live show or their tenth, the “Bouncing Balls Tour” will leave the whole family grinning from ear to ear.
Connecting Through Joy
For Tsehay, the most rewarding part of being a Wiggle is meeting families and spreading happiness. “We visit hospitals and meet children who are going through tough times. Seeing how much The Wiggles mean to them is incredibly humbling,” she shared.
Through her dancing, singing, and vibrant personality, Tsehay is redefining what it means to be a Wiggle. She’s not just teaching kids how to clap and shake their hips—she’s showing them how to embrace their individuality and dream big.
5 Ways to Use Tsehay Hawkins’ Story at Home
- Host a living room dance party. Put on a Wiggles song and let everyone invent a move. There is no wrong way to wiggle.
- Talk about heritage. Tsehay proudly shares how her Ethiopian roots show up in her dancing. Ask your child what traditions, foods, or music come from your own family.
- Celebrate natural hair. If your child lit up seeing Tsehay’s curls, tell them what you love about their hair too.
- Try something new. Tsehay started as a dancer before she became a Wiggle. Let your child explore a class, from ballet to step, and see what sparks joy.
- Look for more heroes. Seek out books and shows where children who look like yours are the stars, not just the background.
If dance has caught your child’s attention, read how dance can build confidence and a sense of community for your child, or explore our tips to help your child try acting, dance, or modeling.
Why Music and Movement Help Young Children Grow
Clapping, jumping, and singing along may look like simple fun, but active play supports coordination, language, and emotional growth in the early years. The American Academy of Pediatrics shares guidance on toddler development, play, and physical activity, and the early childhood experts at Zero to Three explain the power of play for learning. Songs with actions help children practice following directions, taking turns, and expressing big feelings in a healthy way.
Representation adds another layer. When children see performers who share their skin tone or heritage, they get a clear message that they belong in the spotlight too. Learn more about why Black children need to see positive representations of themselves.
Planning a Trip to See The Wiggles Live
The 2025 tour mentioned above has wrapped up, and tour names and cities change each year, so check The Wiggles’ official website for current show dates. If it is your child’s first concert, these tips can help:
- Pack child-sized ear protection, since live shows can be loud for little ears.
- Choose an earlier show time that fits around naps.
- Play the songs at home ahead of time so your child knows the moves.
- Bring a small snack and plan a quiet spot to take a break if your child feels overwhelmed.
Tsehay Hawkins and The Wiggles: FAQ
Who is Tsehay Hawkins?
Tsehay Hawkins is a dancer who was born in Ethiopia and raised in Australia. She became the Yellow Wiggle in 2021 after performing with the group as a dancer.
How do you pronounce Tsehay?
Tsehay is pronounced “Se-Hi,” and her name means “sun.”
Why does representation in children’s shows matter?
Children learn about who they can be from the people they see. Diverse performers help every child feel seen and help all children appreciate people from different backgrounds.
Wiggling Into Hearts Everywhere
Tsehay Hawkins is more than just a Yellow Wiggle; she’s a ray of sunshine lighting up the stage and inspiring kids to move, groove, and believe in themselves. With her unique blend of culture, talent, and infectious joy, she’s making history—one wiggle at a time. So get ready to clap your hands, stomp your feet, and join the fun. The Wiggles are here, and Tsehay is leading the way with a smile that’ll brighten anyone’s day!
We 💛 you Tsehay
Everybody loves Tsehay 💛