Jillian Haima, a 12-year-old Grade 7 student of Abbotsford School of Integrated Arts, has been chosen to be part of Team Canada in the World Dance Championships to be held in Frankfurt, Germany, Oct. 2-8.
Haima, who dances at Project Dance in Chilliwack, qualified for the junior category following a challenging western Canada audition process.
She will perform in group jazz and modern dance numbers.
“I am so excited to be part of the Canadian dance team,” she said.
“I can’t wait to represent Canada on the world stage in Germany. I’m so thankful to my teachers and to my friends, family and the community for their support so far.”
She is currently immersed in a rigorous practice schedule in the coming days to perfect the group numbers. Canadian dance teams have over 20 world titles to their credit in previous competitions and have received their gold medals in a podium ceremony complete with national anthem and flag-raising.
“It is such an honour for a dancer to represent Canada on the world stage,” said Project Dance owner Amanda Quinton.
“Jillian is very skilled, works hard and is a good role model. She is a great representative and I know she will give it her all.”
Haima is now fundraising to help offset expenses for her trip to Germany. Business or service group sponsorships are welcome to assist.
For more information, contact Quinton at projectdance@shaw.ca.