WATCH: Tlholego (15) is Talent Search SA runner-up

Birchleigh North resident Tlholego Keebine (15) made the right moves at this year’s Talent Search SA competition.

Tlholego, who is a hip-hop and sbujwa freestyle dancer, managed to secure a runner-up position at the finale that was held on Saturday at the Indaba Hotel, Spa and Conference Centre in Fourways.

The youngster entered earlier in the year and out of the many South Africans who entered and months of elimination rounds, the local talent managed to be among the top six finalists.

The local talent was the only dancer in the top six, as he competed against singers.

It was Tlholego’s first time participating in the competition where artists with different talents compete for the top prize. He wowed the crowd with his freestyle moves and according to a statement from the competition, it was the first year they had a dancer as runner-up.

“I loved the experience. I have learnt a lot more than just competing and dancing, but about how to become an impactful artist in the community,” said Tlholego.

The Grade Nine learner at Hoërskool Birchleigh told Express he has been dancing for four years.

“My maternal side is artistic and I believe it is in the blood because my grandfather used to dance. I started when I was 11 years old and haven’t stopped,” said Tlholego.

“I have entered a lot of competitions and have won most of them, which I am truly grateful for. I love dancing because I can express my feelings through it. When I feel sad or angry, I dance and feel better. Even when I am happy, I just dance.”

Tlholego’s mother, Rosey, said the competition is not only about the acts, but also about charity.

“They are looking for an artist with a purpose as they also focus on charity. They have five charity initiatives focused on cancer, literacy and gender-based violence, among others,” said Rosey.

“One of his tasks was that he had to collect books for a local charity. He also had to get sponsors and make a video about gender-based violence. All of that is aimed at training artists how to give back.

“They teach artists that they also need to work hard and get involved in charity work within their local communities. It required a lot of work, but it was a very humbling experience.”

The freestyle dancer, who is also part of the Freeze Frame Dance Crew, said he wants to become a professional dance teacher and own a dance academy that will also teach dancers about the history of dance.

“I want all dancers to know that it is important to learn how to freestyle first before learning routines because routines make one too comfortable and when the time comes to freestyle, then you will struggle.

“I would like to thank my previous dance teacher Gerhard van Rooyen at Dance for Life Productions, my mom, older brother and sister, entire family and Freeze Frame Dance Crew. I am also humbled by everyone who supported me and continues to support me.”