Redhill School learner Anya Fernando recently received national colours for her skill and phenomenal achievements in tap dance.
The Grade 8 learner was awarded official Protea colours from the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee.
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Anya will now go on to represent South Africa, as part of the national dance team, at the International Dance Open World Tap Dance Championships in Croatia.
She will join over 3 000 dancers from across the world as they come together to compete.
According to Anya, while this is her second time qualifying for the national team, she was not able to compete in the international competition last year due to Covid-19.
“I am so extremely happy that I am part of the team, able to travel to the competition this year, and that I was awarded National Protea Colours this time around. It’s also an incredible privilege to be dancing alongside people I consider to be my role models.”
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She added that while this year was a little more challenging for her, she is more motivated than ever to compete on the international stage
“I am also very thankful for my teacher, Julie-Ann Oberholzer from Just Wing It, for pushing me to do my best.”
The young dancer is not only looking forward to competing on the international stage but also learning from other dancers.
“I believe that this championship is not just a competition but an educational experience for all of us going to Croatia. It helps give us an idea of what our competition is and gives us an idea of where we should be ourselves. I am proud to represent South Africa.”
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In preparation for the championship, Anya continues to put in the practice hours for her solo, duet and trio routines in-between exams.
“We [recently] had a team day with the national tap dance team. I got to watch all of my teammates’ dances, and we got to know each other so much better.
“It was a nice bonding experience and really got the nerves out for each of us. It’s so much more nerve-racking when the audience is upfront and small than when they’re far and consist of thousands,” she said.
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