Fourways dance team rakes in medals, plans bigger international push
Fresh from international success, Simphiwe Nene from HHMZ dancing studio is calling for sponsorship to help more dancers experience the world stage.
HHMZ, a dance team in Fourways, is hoping to take more than 30 students to compete internationally, following an impressive performance at the Dance Fest Novi Sad competition held in Serbia from March 19 to 21, this year.
The team returned home with outstanding results, securing six gold medals, two silvers and two bronzes, while also placing 13th and 16th overall out of 240 groups from 12 countries, an outstanding achievement on the global stage.
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Coach and co-founder of the dance studio, Simphiwe Nene, said the experience in Serbia highlighted both the team’s potential and the importance of international exposure.
“We recently competed at Dance Fest Novi Sad in Serbia, and the results we achieved show that our dancers are ready to take on the world.”
With their sights now set on future international competitions, the team hopes to take a larger group of dancers abroad.
However, financial constraints remain a major hurdle for many of the students.
“We are hoping to take over 30 students, but not all of them can afford the costs. We are appealing for sponsorship to support those who are unable to go due to financial reasons.”
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The estimated cost per student is around R55 000, which covers flights, accommodation, visa applications, meals, Team South Africa attire and competition entry fees.
Nene said that the opportunity goes beyond competition, offering young dancers a platform to grow and represent the country at an international level.
“It is important because our kids have won most competitions locally, and they are ready to take South Africa to the world and showcase how talented we are. We want to be recognised not just locally, but internationally for our arts and cultural contribution.”
The team’s journey has also been shaped by collaboration and passion, with Nene expressing gratitude to Lerato and Karabo Hure for their role in building the group.
“Sharing dance has always been something I enjoy, and working with this amazing team has made the journey even more meaningful,” concluded Nene.
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