Hip hop dancer needs boost to go to America

Bradley Smith will be performing at the World Hip Hop Dance Championship in Phoenix, Arizona, in America, in August.

Parkwood dancer Bradley Smith grew up surrounded by social ills such as drugs and gangsterism.

However, under the guidance of his father, Lionel, Bradley, 19, chose the hip hop beat instead.

Now, after four years of pursuing his passion for dancing, an opportunity to go to America has presented itself.

Bradley came first in the B-Boy and popping (a robot-like dance) category at the Africa Hip Hop International competition at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, in November, to qualify to represent South Africa at the World Hip Hop Dance Championship from August 3 to August 11 in Phoenix, Arizona, in America.

More than 4 000 dancers from over 50 nations will represent their countries for a chance at the world title. The invitation was extended to winning crews as well as solo dancers.

His proud father Lionel is working tirelessly to raise
R30 000 so that Bradley can go on this trip of a lifetimeMr Smith said he believed a person “must have passion and work hard”, to achieve their dream.

Living in Parkwood was not easy but Mr Smith raised his family to engage in activities that would benefit themselves and society.

He said a child’s future starts at home and the parents should not allow them to get sucked into gangsterism and drugs. “It is important that you raise your children in the right way,” he said.

Bradley attended Cafda School of Skills in Retreat and hip hop classes at Fairmount Senior Secondary, in Grassy Park. He was taught a variety of hip hop styles such as krumping, group dancing and his favourite style, popping.

He has taken part in many competitions and won medals from first to third place. Some of his achievements include coming third in the Overnort Krumping International competition and third in the World Division for popping.

If you would like to assist Bradley contact Mr Smith on 078 964 9257 or email lionelsmith441@gmail.com