Two of the dancers from Zest Dance Connexion in the Strand returned from the South African Championships of Performance Arts in Rustenburg last week - with stars in their eyes. Jennifer Marais and Marlize Cronje made their families proud - bringing home three gold medals and three silver medals.
Jennifer and Marlize were also selected to represent South Africa at the World Championships in Los Angeles, Hollywood in July.
They competed in the dance categories dancing six different styles, namely: Jazz, Open, Lyrical, Freestyle, Ethnic and Musical Character in the age group 25 to 29 years.
But the stars in their eyes could fade quickly if they do not raise sufficient funds to go to LA before the end of May.
Their trainer, Jolanda de Jager, says she is very proud of their excellent and high quality performance at the competition and said it would be a tragedy if a lack of funds would make this an impossible dream for the two dancers.
"These are not only great dancers that achieved so much in such a short time, but they are not scared to work and that is why I believe that they deserve this achievement, it has nothing to do with luck, but preparation and dedication."
Jolanda says this is such a huge achievement - representing your country alongside 52 other countries.
"This global competition is a wonderful opportunity and for the last 11 years took a lot of dancing, singing, drama and music enthusiasts abroad. A lot of funds need to be raised to get these girls there and we need the public's support."
She adds that South Africa has won this competition six times in the last couple of years, but because of a lack of television coverage, the event remains unknown to the public.
"We urge DistrictMail readers to help us raise R80 000 before the end of May.
"You can visit the website BEYOND 2000 - if you want to see how big this event really is. If you can help in any way by making a donation into my account, J de Jager/Standard Bank/ Helderberg / Savings Account / 277421500 (reference: Los Angeles).
We can also supply official letters to sponsors or donors. Phone me on 084 850 1635 for more details."