Papua New Guinea’s Hip Hop dance sensation WanSquad recently took gold at the 2024 World Hip-Hop Dance Championships putting PNG on the map.
In an exclusive interview with PNG HAUSBUNG, the crew was still in the process of recovering from their epic win on Saturday August 10th (Arizona, USA Time).
WanSquad’s Manager and Creative Director, Pyan Ng, stated that this was their fourth year competing in the World HipHop Dance Championships.
“We sacrificed a lot coming into 2024, we we’re confident that we’d be placed in the top 3.”
“We had rehearsals 4 days a week; 3-4 hours of practice; we started in January prepping for this event.”
The group had also faced quite a few challenges in their journey towards the Dance Championships including health, personal, familial and work issues.
“I think it’s part of the experience when you’re working towards something, the journey is not always perfect.”
“These challenges really tested our faith, our work ethic, our brotherhood and our connection with each other, yet in spite of it all, we pushed through and made it through to the finals.”
Additionally, the crew revealed that most countries competing did not have any knowledge of Papua New Guinea, until WanSquad participated in the competition.
WanSquad would like to thank their major sponsors Mountain Dew and Indomie for their support and the people of the Pacific.
“We wouldn’t be able to participate in this competition without their sponsorship.”
“We’d also like to thank our country, our families, friends and to all the Pacific Islands that are supporting us.”
Ng added that the crew wants to be a positive influence and role model for youngsters with similar dreams.
“We’d like to inspire, motivate and encourage those who always wanted to step into the hip-hop international world stage to compete and represent their country and people – we’d like to see more participation not only from PNG, but from other Pacific Islands as well.”
WanSquad advises any person who is interested in getting involved in hip-hop and the dance scene to work alongside like-minded individuals.
“You should keep company with individuals who share the same mindset as you – these trustworthy individuals will propel you to achieve your dreams and goals.”
“Keep in mind that these things require sacrifice and hard work.”
“Be patient when your dreams don’t come into fruition quickly as God has his own timing.”
“Be persistent and never give up!”
WanSquad will return to the country on August 21st, 2024.