Desiree: a triple threat with passion
Hard work, discipline, dedication, passion and the support of her family is what drives Desiree Buys (14), an acrobatic dancer at Jolene's Acrobatic Studio.
POLOKWANE – Hard work, discipline, dedication, passion and the support of her family is what drives Desiree Buys (14), an acrobatic dancer at Jolene’s Acrobatic Studio.
Desiree is not only passionate about dance, but about academics too. The gr. 9 Pepps Polokwane College learner was the second best learner in her grade last year and says she aims to be the top learner in her grade this year.
“I will work extra hard to make sure I achieve my goal. I wake up at 03:00 in the morning three days a week to study for two hours before I get ready for school. I do this throughout the year, whether it is exam time or not. Studying ahead gives me a better understanding of my work and when it is exam time, the work is easier to study. Because I study ahead, I can identify work that I do not understand and ask the teacher to explain it again, so that I understand it better, which will help when I write the exams,” says Desiree.
She is also an exceptional athlete and was awarded the junior Victrix Ludorum trophy this year, coming first in both field and track items during Pepps inter-house athletics meeting, which was held last month.
Desiree has been dancing since the age of five and has won several competitions. She recently qualified to represent South Africa at the American Dance Awards competition, which will be held in Hollywood, Florida in the US in July.
“I have a very busy schedule. I go to school, after school, I have athletics practice and thereafter I have dance classes. I get home at about 18:00. I have a quick bite to eat and then I start doing my homework. This is my routine everyday of the week. On my off days I enjoy spending time with my family and watching movies at home,” she says.
Her mother, Cynthia says, Desiree is a very competitive person who believes in winning each time she competes, and this motivates her to give and do her best in everything she does.
The family says she is very punctual and hates being late.
“My phone is always 15 minutes ahead to make sure I am never late for an appointment, event or practice,” Desiree says.
She says she wants to study medicine after school.
“I want to become a doctor, but dance will always be part of my life. I also love athletics, so I will continue to participate in field and track athletics at university.”
