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The Citizen
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Local Dancers Shine on International Stage Despite Setback
A group of four talented young dancers from Potchefstroom returned from Spain last week with a total of 18 international medals – including three first places, nine second places, and six third places – after representing South Africa at the Mediterranean Legends international dance competition in July. The dancers – Nicoléne Minnaar, Somé Cromhout, Elizka De Bruyn, and Zanica Bechaz – formed part of the South African team competing against dancers from countries across the globe. But their journey to the podium was anything but ordinary. Just two weeks before departure, tragedy struck when Elizka de Bruyn broke her ankle, leaving the group devastated and under pressure to rework nearly all their routines. Rather than let the setback define them, the team rose to the challenge with resilience and determination. 'We had to re-choreograph multiple items in which Elizka couldn't dance anymore,' said their coach, Anchenique Papenfus. 'The girls came together as a team in a time of potential crisis and turned it into an opportunity to grow.' In a remarkable show of adaptability, the dancers reworked one of their group routines to include Elizka performing in a moon boot and wheelchair. That performance went on to earn a second place on the international stage – a moment the team and audience won't forget soon. They were also able to adapt one of Elizka's solo dances so that she could still perform on stage. She earned an incredible third place for this performance. Another dancer, Somé Cromhout, stepped up in an extraordinary way. With just three days to learn Elizka's part in a duet, Somé mastered the routine in time – and the piece was awarded second place as well. Two of the team's dancers were invited to perform again at the competition's Gala Evening. A solo by their youngest rising star, Zanica Bechaz, and a duet by Nicoléne Minnaar and Somé Cromhout that was awarded first place. Coach Anchenique couldn't be prouder: 'They were all willing to work together to find a way to accommodate their friend. They showed compassion, commitment, and creativity. It was incredible to see a team come together like this.' The group's achievements have not only inspired their fellow dancers at home but have proven that true teamwork, heart, and perseverance can lead to greatness – even when the odds are stacked against you. The Potchefstroom community awaits to welcome home their dance heroes, who have shown the world the spirit of South African dancers – strong, united, and unstoppable.
Time of India
01-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Israel Tourism Showcases India Collaboration at IMTM 2025 in Tel Aviv, ET TravelWorld
Advt By , ETTravelWorld Join the community of 2M+ industry professionals Subscribe to our newsletter to get latest insights & analysis. Download ETTravelWorld App Get Realtime updates Save your favourite articles Scan to download App The Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT) concluded the 31st edition of the International Mediterranean Tourism Market (IMTM) on 7–8 May 2025 in Tel Aviv. Recognised as a leading tourism gathering in the Mediterranean region, the event welcomed 24 tour operators from 11 countries including India, alongside international media, to strengthen global collaboration in featured prominently as one of the key markets, with delegates including Chandrasekar Krishnakumar (PickYourTrail), Manoj Das (Tern Voyages), and Vanessa Mehra (Aaryan Holidays). The Indian delegation participated in a series of seminars, B2B meetings, and cultural exchanges, including the Gala Evening held at the historic Knights' Halls in Shahar, Director-General of the Israel Ministry of Tourism, said, 'We aim to welcome 7 million tourists by 2030. To achieve this, we are building smart strategies, long-term partnerships, and immersive experiences that go beyond the usual. India is a vital market for us and we are delighted to see growing interest and trust from the Indian travel fraternity.'Beyond the exhibition, the visiting delegates experienced Israel's diverse tourism offerings—from the spiritual landscapes of Jerusalem and the Dead Sea to the cosmopolitan vibrancy of Tel Aviv. Two Indian delegates extended their stay to further explore the country, a sign of rising confidence and interest in Israel as a safe and enriching India emerging as one of the fastest-growing outbound markets, IMTM 2025 has reinforced Israel's intent to deepen ties with Indian travel professionals. The event marked a significant step in expanding inbound tourism by creating stronger links with travel trade and media stakeholders from across the globe.
