POLOKWANE – Karmien Gilfillan, a 10-year-old local dancer, has been building an impressive resumé since she first stepped into a studio at the age of four.

Trained under her mom, Melisa Gilfillan, who is the dance instructor and owner of the Melisa Gilfillan Dance Academy, Karmien has mastered multiple styles including ballet, acrobatics, tap and contemporary dance.

“I’ve always been at the studio for as long as I can remember. My mom has always taught me that practice makes perfect, no matter what you do in life,” Karmien said.

Her dedication has earned her several accolades at prestigious competitions. Karmien attends ballet classes at the Melisa Gilfillan Dance Academy, acrobatics at Fundance Company, tap lessons with Frieda Lombaard, and contemporary classes with various instructors in the city.

She has completed Cecchetti International ballet examinations up to grade 2, achieved acrobatics level 10, and successfully completed her tap dance primary level.

“My mom introduced me to all the dance styles. The competitions I enter require certain styles, so I joined other classes to sharpen my skills, which also complement ballet very well,” she said.

Melisa explained that each discipline strengthens the other.

“Tap improves her musicality and speed, acrobatics builds flexibility and strength, and ballet provides the foundation for all her dance styles.”

Karmien’s favourite style is contemporary, particularly lyrical contemporary, which she says feels closest to ballet.

Her favourite piece, titled ‘Pieces’, was choreographed especially for her by Mzansi Ballet Company prima ballerina Angela Revie.

Among her achievements are being a top 12 finalist at the 12th South African International Ballet Competition (2025), a finalist at the same competition in 2024, overall first place at Dance Fusion with the highest score and a special award, second place at national acrobatics in 2025, and first place at a national dance competition in 2023, Acrobatic (solo dance) Sport South Africa competition.

“Karmien’s passion and dedication are evident in every performance. I’m incredibly proud, both as her instructor and her mom,” Melisa said.

With dreams of earning a scholarship and dancing overseas, Karmien believes her parents’ support will help her reach even greater heights.