Extra Success Stories

Ariel, who is a PFP student, participated in an international dance competition alongside Rachel (year 1) and Jeina (year 2). 

When the news broke out that they would be performing, Ariel was initially surprised by the news but soon found herself at a crossroads. The competition required significant financial resources, clashed with school hours, and posed the risk of sacrifices. However, Ariel possessed a ‘do first, think later’ mentality. She could not resist the allure of the competition as she saw it as a life-changing opportunity. Her desire to compete was impulsive but was eventually worthwhile!

Preparation for the performance

They began their preparation two months before the competition was due. This meant weeks of intense training and rehearsals, with weekends becoming synonymous with dance as they practised from 6:30 pm until 9:30 pm, often stretching late into the night.

On a typical weekend, their Saturdays and Sundays were entirely devoted to practice sessions from 10 am to 1 pm. This gruelling schedule left little time for them to have family time and personal activities. As the saying goes, ‘Nothing worth having comes easy,’ and their dedication and hard work were truly put to the test during this rigorous preparation period.

The meaning of the performance

What set Ariel, Rachel, and Jeina’s performance apart was the profound message embedded in their dance moves. Their secret sauce was simple yet powerful:

“They danced not to show off but to convey a message.”

With the song “Heartlines” as their canvas, they portrayed a lead dancer struggling through her life’s challenges. The story of the performance progressed from self-doubt to self-discovery. A heart-shaped light illuminated the stage during the finale, symbolising the waking of courage and determination.

In a world where many people are guided by logic and reason (head), their dance resonated by encouraging people to listen to their emotions and desires (heart). It served as a reminder to forge one’s own path and resist succumbing to external pressures.

We are pleased to announce that Ariel, Rachel, and Jeina triumphantly returned as champions, seizing first place in that international dance competition! Their story is not just about the destination, but in fact, it is about the incredible journey that led them to this triumphant moment, inspiring others to follow their heartlines.

Advice from Ariel

“If it was easy, everyone would do it. Good things often require hard work and dedication. Acknowledge that accomplishing your goals may take time. It is like how you will not be able to go from an ‘F’ to an ‘A1’ overnight. Accept failure as a stepping stone to your desired destination. If you happen to be struggling, fret not, because it means you are on the right path. It is feasible to balance studies with dance. I studied extensively, but I also danced frequently. I have no regrets.”