Dancing to the top

They are twins and they are up-and-coming dancers with the world at their feet.
Jake and Ben Kanda (20) were recently both promoted from amateur dancers to professionals when they competed in the Solo Danca Latina South African Dance Championships at the end of October in White River, Mpumalanga.
Jake won the advanced championship Latin American section and Ben won the advanced championship for Energy.

Their teacher, Erica Bradley explained that each advanced section has about 32 dancers competing.
“We have been dancing hip-hop since we were six years old,” said Jake. They started competing in Latin, classic and energy dance at the age of 13, but this is no surprise as the rest of the twins’ family are dancers. The twins agreed that they cannot choose a favourite dance style, but if they were asked a few years ago, they would’ve said hip-hop.
“We like all of them, because once you start to understand the techniques, all of them become fun,” said Jake. Ben laughed and said that ballet is definitely the hardest dance style to compete in.

Bradley explained that she is so proud of the twins, because when they competed they were amateur and had to compete against professionals in the advanced category. She added that it goes to show that hard work and dedication pays off.
“The support we have from our parents is amazing,” agreed the twins. Ben advised young dancers to always have fun. “Know why you started whether it be to have fun or compete,” added Jake.
Both dancers will start to teach their own classes in February next year and wish to not only teach, but travel the world as dancers.