Dance sensationals to represent South Africa

Judy Rhodes Start Date: Jul 24, 2024 - End Date: Nov 23, 2024
  • Lisbon, Portugal

My Travel Story

by: Judy Rhodes Start Date: Jul 24, 2024 - End Date: Nov 23, 2024
In the heart of South Africa, nestled amidst the vibrant cityscape of Cape Town, lies a dance academy unlike any other. Established in 2014, Set4Dance Community Outreach has been a beacon of hope and opportunity for young dancers from diverse backgrounds in Mitchells Plain. Now, they stand on the precipice of an incredible opportunity: representing South Africa at the World Dance Championships in Portugal this October.
The competition took place among South African provinces, featuring numerous dance clubs and academies vying for top honours at the South African Aerobics, Fitness, and Hip Hop Federation (SASAFF). The goal was to secure qualification to represent South Africa at the FISAF World Championships in Obidos, Portugal, scheduled for October 2024. Participants from these clubs first had to qualify at the Regional Championships to advance to the National Championships and earn their chance at international competition.
Three provinces participated in the competition, collectively fielding around 20 entries from dance clubs and academies. Set4Dance Community Outreach achieved notable success, securing multiple titles:

 1st Place in Junior Crew with "Ds Sturbin Da Peace"
 1st Place in Junior Duo with "Junior Duo Street Sxldiers"
 Dominating the Youth Solo Battles with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place finishes
 3rd Place in the Adult Solo Battles

The Netherlands, Russia and New Zealand are some of the top competing countries in this competition in Portugal.
This group of 11 talented hip hop dancers has honed their skills through dedication and passion, competing tirelessly in numerous competitions nationwide. For these dancers, many of whom hail from single-parent households, the academy is more than just a place to learn dance—it’s a sanctuary where they've found belonging, developed friendships, and nurtured their talent.
The journey to Portugal is a dream come true for these young dancers, marking their first international competition.
However, to turn this dream into reality, they need your support. The funds raised will cover essential expenses such as flights and accommodation for their two-week stay in Portugal.
Dance has been instrumental in their lives, fostering not just a love for movement but also crucial life skills like coordination, teamwork, and discipline.
Through dance, they have found a way to channel their energy positively, building confidence and resilience with every routine they perfect.
Your financial support would make a world of difference to these aspiring dancers. It's not just about the competition; it's about the opportunity to represent their country proudly on a global stage, to showcase the talent and spirit that defines South African dance culture.
Your generosity will not only help these dancers achieve their dreams but will also empower them with a lifelong appreciation for the transformative power of dance.
Join us in supporting these remarkable young dancers as they prepare to shine in Portugal. Together, let’s make their journey to the World Dance Championships a reality they will cherish forever.
  • Lisbon, Portugal

Updates

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  • GET TO KNOW THE TEAM

    GET TO KNOW THE TEAM
    *Name and Age:* My name is Zaheer Woodman.

    *Nickname:* My teammates call me Zaheer but my friends at home call me HERO.

    *Why I dance:* I dance to express myself and connect with others through movement.

    *Favourite dance style:* Hip hop because I love its high energy swag and versatility.

    *Preparing for stage:* Before a show I will warm up and do stretches and listen to music.

    *Most talkative team member:* That's gotta be Zinzi Rodes.

    *Mother figure:* Zinzi Rodes always warm us up before we practice
  • GET TO KNOW THE TEAM

    GET TO KNOW THE TEAM
    What is your name and age?
    Kirsten Vercuil, 16

    Do you have a nickname, and if yes what is it? yes, Kirsty

    Why do you dance? I dance to express all the emotions I go through in a different more healthier way which is to dance

    What Is your favourite dance style?
    old school

    How do you prepare to go on stage and how does it make you feel?
    I prepare by doing my 10 slow counts of breathing and try to calm my nerves.

    Who is the most talkative one in the team?
    I think we are all talkative maybe jaylee or kiara talks abit more

    Who is the mother figure in the team?
    sometimes I feel like the mother figure

    If you could be any super hero, who would you be and why?
    I would be zatana because she's been my favorite since I was about 6

    What is the most memorable thing you did as a dancer?
    probably representing Cape Town in 2023 at Global Dance Supreme

    What is your favourite moment as a team?
    Whenever we all gather in a circle to pray or sit and chat.

    What would people be surprised to know about you? I'm actually a decent singer and actor

    What do you do when you don’t dance?
    I study and I like to write little stories

    What’s something about your teammates that you appreciate?
    I appreciate that we'll stand up for one another if someone else outside of our team makes a joke about one of us.

    What is your favourite quote?
    "take this opportunity with two hands"
    -Ignatius Pastor 2023

    What was the first thing you thought about when you woke up today?
    I thought about my math assignment

    What is your go to karaoke song?
    Tonight - John legend and ludicrous

    What’s the best phrase or piece of slang people in your hometown use?
    "clock it"

    If you could be famous for one thing, what would it be?
    dancing

    If you were setting off to Mars and could take only one luxury item with you, what would it be?
    my mom because she's my number one supporter and to have a number one supporter to me is a luxury not alot of dancers have☺️