Kempton dancer crowned world champion in Belfast
Zuan Scheepers raise the South African flag higher at the World Lyrical Dance Federation’s World’s Dance Competition.
Kempton Park’s own Zuan Scheepers (20), a 2024 matriculant from Hoërskool Jeugland, has made the community proud after being crowned world dance champion at the World Lyrical Dance Federation’s World Dance Competition in Belfast, Northern Ireland, this August.
Representing South Africa, Scheepers described being overwhelmed as his hard work paid off on the international stage.
“I had hope that I was going to win, but I did not have any expectations. Winning meant so much to me because it was the result of countless hours of training, personal sacrifices, and significant financial investment.
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“Behind that victory were early mornings, late nights, and moments when I pushed through pain and doubt,” he said.
“I gave up time with friends and family, put other opportunities on hold, and stayed committed even when it was tough.
“Every cent spent on training, equipment, travel, and coaching was a gamble on this dream.
“When I won, it wasn’t just about the medal or recognition; it was proof that everything I poured into this journey was worth it. Most importantly, I thank God for guiding me through every step.”
The competition, held from July 31 to August 3, brought together top dancers from around the world. To qualify, dancers had to finish in the top three at regional competitions, a feat Scheepers consistently achieved. At the world championships, he won in the Jazz and Lyrical sections and placed third in Acro.
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“I’m a diverse dancer and perform many different styles. I do stage styles like contemporary, jazz, lyrical, and acro, as well as Latin, hip hop, and I used to do disco freestyle. I started dancing at the age of eight with hip hop and freestyle before moving into stage styles,” he explained.
Scheepers’ victory opened another life-changing opportunity. Just a day after being named world champion, he was awarded a full scholarship to ToTheCore Company’s 2026 Performance Course in London.
The programme runs from March to June 2026 and includes company classes, rehearsals, and public performances at a London theatre in their show IGNITE26.
“Receiving this scholarship means the world to me. It’s a chance to be seen by agents and producers who could help shape my career.
“Unfortunately, there is no government funding for opportunities like this in South Africa. It’s sad because we have so much talent and passion, but many dancers cannot represent our country due to financial constraints,” he said.
Looking ahead, Scheepers dreams of breaking into the professional dance world. “My goal is to perform on Broadway, in West End productions, or to dance for an international artist. In the meantime, I’d love to perform at local productions like Afrikaans is Groot or corporate events, as every performance helps me grow as a dancer.”
