Walter Sisulu University students danced their way to the top at the National Achievers Championships held at North West University on the weekend.
The team, comprising students from all four WSU campuses, swept up the medals and two students are set to represent SA at the East Africa competition in the Seychelles.
Buhle Sinyanya and Rakgadi Mabela came first in the Rising Star Ballroom category and third in Latin American.
They will be part of the SA team to represent the country in East Africa.
Salakha Mkeyiya and Oyena Dumezweni came second in Ballroom Category Level One, and Lilitha Kutsu and Nasiphi Tembe third.
Qhama Mfene and Busisiwe Ramaisa came second in Ballroom Level Two.
Bubele Ndungane and Sbabalwe Mdlakaya came fifth in the Rising Star Ballroom category.
Their coaches, Nozuko Kutsu and Phumzo Msizi, also won, coming second in the Senior One Champ category.
The two will also dance on the global stage but are waiting for confirmation from the host country.
Sinyanya said he started dancing in April 2019, a month before his mother’s death.
“I started dancing through a friend and classmate.
“She mentioned she wanted to join the sport but was afraid she would be the only beginner.
“I promised to be there for her during rehearsals, for moral support.
“At the time there were only two types of dancing at school, Ballroom and Latin.
“I took beginner’s basic steps to make her feel comfortable, and then realised dance was the sport I was looking for.”
Sinyanya said being involved in dance had helped him cope with the loss of his mother.
“I used dance to escape from the thoughts and sorrow of being left by a single parent.”
Winning the finals had been “the best feeling”, he said.
“From all the hard work we invested, we managed to work our way through the quarterfinals, semifinals and up to the finals, taking first place.
“If it wasn’t for Rakgadi’s dedication, love and support, as well as that of my coach, family and friends, we wouldn’t be here today.”
Sinyanya said they had to juggle between their studies and dancing.
“There were times we went to bed with our bodies sore from the intensity of workouts on building stamina and flexibility, but it paid off.”
Coach Kutsu said the university was extremely proud of the students.
“The competition becomes very tough when we go to nationals — we go against people who get support from their provinces, and we cannot shy away from the fact ours is poor.
“As WSU students, we are very proud.”
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