World title for Plett dancers

PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Fiah-Bella Fredericks and Chioma Tagbo danced their way to international stardom recently when they were crowned the world dance champions at the prestigious Dance the World Championships, hosted in partnership with Disney at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, USA.

This talented duo were selected as part of Team South Africa to represent the country after progressing through the regional and provincial qualifiers held across South Africa during mid-2025.

The national team was announced in Cape Town at the end of 2025, earning the pair the opportunity to compete against some of the world's best young dancers.

The international championships attracted thousands of competitors from across the globe, competing for titles in 12 genres. The preliminary rounds took place at Epcot on 11 July before the finals were held at Disney's Magic Kingdom on 12 July.

Fiah-Bella and Chioma delivered an outstanding performance in the intermediate (14 years) hip-hop duet category, claiming first place and receiving the competition's highest accolade - the World-class Diamond Award.

Their victory officially crowned them the world dance champions. Their success continued in the solo divisions, in which both dancers earned silver medals in their respective categories.

Chioma also secured a bronze medal during the evening's overall dance selections, during which standout performances from all categories competed for additional honours.

Beyond the competition, the dancers were afforded memorable opportunities unique to the event.

They were selected to participate in the World Dance Disney Parade through Magic Kingdom, performing alongside dancers from around the world in front of thousands of visitors. The pair also attended exclusive masterclasses presented by internationally acclaimed professionals.

These included workshops hosted by renowned choreographer Jenna Johnson, celebrated South African choreographer Geo Hubela, and Disney talent manager David Houde. The sessions offered valuable insight into the professional dance industry and allowed participants to develop their skills under leading experts.

The achievement marks the culmination of months of dedication, training and commitment from both dancers, their families and coaches.

Representing South Africa on one of the world's biggest stages was a dream realised, and returning home as world champions made it even more special.

Their accomplishment has brought pride not only to their families and dance studio, but also to the wider Plettenberg Bay community.

By earning world championship honours, Fiah-Bella and Chioma have shown that local talent can compete with - and triumph over - the best on the international stage.

Fiah-Bella Fredericks and Chioma Tagbo participated in the World Dance Disney Parade, performing alongside dancers from around the world in front of thousands of visitors.

Chioma Tagbo and Fiah-Bella Fredericks were crowned the world dance champions following their participation in the Dance the World Championships at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, USA.