EXCITEMENT is running high at the Dance World Cup (DWC) South Africa 2026 qualifiers, where Talent ‘n’ Motion (TnM) Academy is making impressive progress in its mission to represent Eswatini on the global stage in Dublin, Ireland in July.
Under the expert leadership of Director and Choreographer Velile Dube, the academy has already secured three podium finishes in the ballet categories, a proud milestone that reflects both the dancers’ discipline and the academy’s commitment to excellence.
“At the moment, Talent ‘n’ Motion has three podium finishers two third places and one second place, all in ballet,” Dube revealed.
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The bronze medals were earned by two groups: the mini category butterfly dance trio of Liyakhanya Dlamini, Avana Nxumalo, and Ayah Dlamini, and the junior category group performing Married Life, featuring Kuhlekwetfu Zwane, Elihle Masinga, Mayipheleliswe Nkambule, Ndalolenhle Ntshalintshali, Nalo Nkambule and Wenziwe Mtshali.
The silver medal was awarded to the butterfly dance group comprising Sisipho Dlamini, Zanokuhle Mkhatshwa, and Jada Dlamini.
As the qualifiers progress, anticipation continues to build with solo performances in ballet, commercial dance, lyrical contemporary and jazz scheduled for the coming days.
“Today (yesterday) we are doing one ballet solo with Wenziwe Mtshali. On Friday, we’ll have two lyrical contemporary solos with Mukelwe Kunene and Victorie Kihojo. On Saturday, Kitso Makgeledisa and Siphosethu Mlotsa will perform two commercial dance solos, along with a group jazz piece,” Dube explained.
While several dancers have already met the qualifying benchmarks, Dube noted that the final list of those who would travel to Dublin would only be confirmed after the competition’s conclusion.
“We can only confirm the number of dancers who have qualified at the end of the competition because it depends on the final points. Everything will be clear once we’ve met with the Dance World Cup team,” she said.
“We are competing as Eswatini, not South Africa, so final results will determine our representation.”
Beyond competition, Dube emphasised that the dancers’ journey symbolises the country’s growing presence in global performing arts, an inspiring narrative of ambition, teamwork and national pride.
With unwavering support from the Kwakitsi Foundation, parents, and sponsors, Talent ‘n’ Motion continues to nurture a new generation of dancers determined to make their mark internationally.
Their achievements so far serve as a reminder that local talent, when given the right platform and mentorship, can compete and shine brightly on any world stage.
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