Reflecting on the experience, Hanna said it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that she is extremely grateful for. “I would like to thank everyone who contributed towards this competition and trip. Thank you for helping me get to Bulgaria for world champs Thank you for your generosity and for supporting me. This means a lot to me and I am eternally grateful. You allowed me to have an opportunity that some athletes only dream of,” said Hanna.

She added that one of the highlights of her trip was meeting Bulgarian Olympic gymnast Stiliana Nikolova. “I admire her and strive to be as great as her one day. Another highlight for me was watching the finals, and mingling with the girls from other countries was amazing. It was almost surreal to think that we did it and made it so far,” said Hanna.

While the world champs proved to be a major test for Hanna and the girls, she is now shifting her focus to the SA Gym Games in October and the African championships next year.

“I will never stop working and continue giving my best,” said Hanna.