NORTHWOOD School’s Leshem Naidoo performed exceptionally at the recent South African Championship of Performing Arts (SACOPA) in Pretoria.

He won seven gold medals, two silvers and a bronze in his first SA Champs.

In addition, Leshem was awarded the SACOPA Overall Trophy in the Male Category (Ages 16–24), an exceptional honour and testament to his talent and dedication.

He was one of the few males selected in the Dance Category and invited to perform his Musical Character Tap Solo at the SACOPA Showcase Night, along with his studio team in their Fusion Dance performance.

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“I must say that it was quite shocking at first. I did say to myself that all that matters is that I worked extremely hard and performed to the best of my ability, but most importantly I had fun while doing so. I was, and still am, extremely grateful to God for being with me the entire competition. This was my first time doing SACOPA, and it was the best experience ever! I travelled with my colleagues from the dance studio and had the best time competing and supporting my fellow dance peers,” he said.

The Grade 10 learner has been selected to represent Team South Africa at the World Championships of Performing Arts.

“The World Championships of Performing Arts is set to take place in July 2026, in Las Vegas (USA). This is is an amazing opportunity and I am truly grateful for making it through to Team SA. God willing, all will go well and we are able to raise sufficient funds to cover the costs; then I will be able to represent my country and have an experience of a lifetime.

“This wouldn’t have been possible without my parents, my family’s and friend’s support, but most importantly, my mother, for her unconditional love and for always working her hardest and ensuring that I get to lessons, rehearsals, exams, competitions, and other performances on time. I owe a special thanks to my dance teacher, Christy Hartgill, who has trained me and helped me grow as a dancer over the past eight years,” he said.

Leshem’s Results

Solo – Musical Character – Gold 1st Place (Age 16–17)
Solo – Open – Gold 1st Place (Age 16–17)
Solo – Tap – Gold 1st Place (Age 16–17)
Dance & Vocal – Gold 1st Place (Age 16–17)
Duet – Musical Character – Bronze – 3rd Place
Duet – Tap – Gold – 1st Place
Group – Musical Character – Silver – 2nd Place
Group – Open – Silver – 2nd Place
Group – Open – Gold – 1st Place
Group – Tap – Gold – 1st Place

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