Maya Weier, a talented 16-year-old ballerina from Elite Ballet in Boskruin, has been selected to attend a prestigious ballet summer school in Denmark this July. This remarkable opportunity is the culmination of years of dedication and hard work.
Maya’s journey in ballet began at a young age. “I started ballet at the age of three. We would often go to watch Joburg Ballet productions, which inspired me to pursue ballet as a career.”
Maya’s passion for ballet has only grown over the years, leading her to this significant milestone.
The exciting news of the scholarship came as a thrilling surprise to Maya. “It has always been something that I wanted to do and I have been working towards this dream. My ballet teacher, Karen Beukes, told me at a ballet competition that I received the scholarship to attend the summer school. I couldn’t believe it, if I was not in a room full of people I definitely would have screamed with excitement. It is an opportunity that I am incredibly grateful for.”
Karen Beukes, principal of Elite Ballet, praised Maya’s exceptional qualities. “Maya is incredibly hardworking, dedicated, and committed. To reach this level, you have to have a certain amount of passion and hard work. Maya has all those qualities and is such a humble soul.”
Beukes also emphasised the significance of this opportunity. “With her going over to Denmark to participate in summer school is a reward for all that hard work and commitment that she’s given. So, we’re very excited for her and we wish her well.”
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Maya’s rigorous training schedule is a testament to her commitment. “I have been attending my three-hour ballet class from Monday to Friday and doing other classes on Tuesday and Saturday while rehearsing with Joburg Ballet for their upcoming production of Sleeping Beauty,” she said.
Beyond her scheduled classes, Maya also focuses on her flexibility and technique at home. “I have been pushing myself in my stretch routine, which I do at home after class. I have also been working on my confidence while dancing and trying to perform more while still focusing on my ballet technique.”
The summer school in Denmark presents a chance for Maya to develop her skills further. “I hope to improve on my overall technique and I am looking forward to doing pointe work and becoming more comfortable and stronger on pointe.”
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Maya’s achievements are supported by a strong network of family, friends, and mentors. “I have always had an immense amount of support from my family and friends, which has helped me grow as a dancer. I am extremely grateful to my ballet teacher. Her support, training, guidance, and knowledge of ballet have been invaluable to me.
“I also want to say a big thank you to my parents and my aunts, Elisha and Neave, for supporting me in my dream, being there for me, and allowing me to do what I love.”
Looking to the future, Maya’s aspirations are clear. “My long-term goal and dream have always been to be part of a professional ballet company and to one day be a principal dancer. After summer school, I plan to continue working towards this long-term goal. The summer school is going to give me an experience that I will learn an immense amount from.”
Beyond the dance studio, Maya is excited about the cultural experiences awaiting her in Denmark. “I am looking forward to seeing a new country and experiencing their culture. I am also looking forward to seeing and spending time with my uncle Andrew, who lives in Copenhagen, and exploring the Tivoli theme park.”
Maya offers a piece of advice to aspiring dancers. “I would say work hard for what you want and believe in yourself, give it your all.”
