A dance crew is hoping to take the world stage by storm when they compete in the Hip Hop Unite World Championships later this month.
Girl’s Clique is a group of five girls and is one of four groups and four duos from Out of Africa Dance Academy that will represent South Africa at the championship in Leiden, Amsterdam, from Tuesday October 16.
Out of Africa Dance Academy is based at St Augustine’s RC Primary in Wynberg and was founded in 2005.
For the past few years the academy has had successes in national and international dance competitions and this year they hope to bring home even more accolades.
Over 17 countries will take part in the championships and Girl’s Clique is up against 27 other crews but they feel confident that they can represent SA well.
Megan Santon from Norman Henshilwood High School said she feels anxious. “I’m excited and anxious because we’re competing on an international level. I feel proud to represent our country,” she said.
Jordyn Wyngaard from Bergvliet High took part in the competition last year but is still feeling tense about being on the big stage.
“I’m nervous because we’re going up against the top performing crews. Last year’s competition was amazing and I know this year will be even better but I know we can represent SA well because we have been working extremely hard,” she said.
Amy Moosa from St Augustine’s Primary School said their passion and commitment will carry them through. “We are really lucky to have come this far and I’m proud of my crew for getting this far,” she said.
Letitia Johnson from Bergvliet High said: “We are a family and to go on the world stage as a family is something I will never forget so I am looking forward to participate with them.”
Out of Africa Dance Academy founder, Ivy Meyer, said international competitions give dancers an opportunity to step up their game.
“It’s daunting and difficult because the competition is quite hectic, competing against the world’s best but we’re excited to take our crews over to compete.
“So many of the academy’s crews going through to the world champs is a serious dream come true. We want to get kids off the streets and keep them occupied and dancing is a way to do that,” said Ms Meyer.
The dancers have been raising funds for their trip and to register for their national colours from the South African Fitness Sport Aerobic Federation (or SASAFF).
“If anybody out there is willing to sponsor the children it would be amazing because I know these children have what it takes to show that South Africa can perform well internationally,” said Ms Meyer.
The team has to raise funds for flights, registration, uniforms, accommodation, transport and other things.
If you would like to make a donation, call Ivy Meyer on 072 017 2072.