Wellington Dance Crew 'NOVA' win Hip Hop Unite World Championships

A group of talented young dancers from across Wellington, featuring Pacific Island girls, have taken the world stage by storm as they clinched victory in the Hip Hop Unite World Championship in Portugal.

NOVA, comprising 18 members aged between nine and 13, represented New Zealand at the championships in the Cadet Megacrew category. Their remarkable journey to the world championship victory was a story filled with determination, community support, and unforgettable moments.

The journey for these young dancers began with a significant fundraising effort. Each dancer needed to raise $10,000 for the trip, making the total cost an estimated $200,000. They organised various events and created a Givealittle page that garnered over $12,000 in donations. 

The decision to participate in the championship wasn't taken lightly, as the group had previously qualified but opted not to attend due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the cost of the trip.

Their journey was far from easy, marked by rigorous training, financial challenges, and a steadfast commitment to their dreams.

Under the guidance of their coach, Myah Miranda, who had herself competed at the Hip Hop Unite World Championships, the dancers aimed for excellence.

With dedication and perseverance, NOVA turned their dreams into reality. They overcame financial obstacles, secured community support, and dedicated themselves to perfecting their routine.

The hard work and resilience paying off as they emerged victorious in Portugal, becoming World Champions in the process.