Seychelles Indian Ocean Championship qualifiers a success, says SNYC |29 February 2024
Three young Seychellois dancers, namely, Carlos Roucou, Dean Onezime and Kery Tamboo will be competing against other dancers in the Indian Ocean Championship regional dance tournament to be held in Mauritius in July.
The three dancers qualified for the championship after having blown the judges and audience away with their talent and creativity at the qualification competition held on Saturday.
In preparation for Saturday’s competition, the Seychelles National Youth Council (SNYC) in partnership with the Wake Up Session street dance contest from Mauritius, hosted a series of workshops for aspiring dancers who lean towards hip hop, afro dance and breakdance.
Speaking to Seychelles NATION, SNYC chief executive Albert Duncan noted that the SNYC is happy with the level of participation, as well as the crowd who showed up to the Victoria Gymnasium, to support the youths.
“The competition was a success. It had a good impact, and a good outcome. We came out with three skilful winners, three youths who are ready to represent Seychelles in the regional competition,” Mr Albert stated.
Some 23 youths competed for the qualifier round. Onezime won the Hip Hop category, while Roucou took the title for breakdance. Tamboo won the Afro style category.
Importantly, there is continued interest for youths to join SNYC programmes to be able to participate in dance programmes and similar events.
“This falls in line with our chosen theme for the year which seeks to professionalise arts, and to expose youths to regional and international competitions or exchanges,” Mr Albert added.
A group of 10 young Seychellois, along with Mr Duncan, travelled to India for the National Cadet Corps (NCC) in January for a youth exchange programme, coinciding with India’s Republic Day celebrations.
“Our theme for this year seeks to expose our youths, and give them the platforms through which they can express themselves in a positive way,” Mr Duncan added.
The regional competition will be held on July 18-21, 2024.
The SNYC will cover travel and accommodation costs for the winners.
Laura Pillay