Papua New Guinea's world-renowned dance crew, Wan Squad, departed Port Moresby yesterday, bound for Sydney, Australia, where they will represent the country at the prestigious International Dance League (IDL), regarded as the world's first professional global dance competition.
The internationally acclaimed group travels with the backing of Mountain Dew and Pacific Industries Limited, which recently renewed its sponsorship partnership with the team for the 2026 season.
Wan Squad has become one of Papua New Guinea's most successful international performing groups, earning global recognition after securing back-to-back world championship titles in the United States.
Their achievements have elevated Papua New Guinea's profile on the international dance stage and inspired a new generation of young dancers across the country.
The International Dance League brings together elite dance crews from around the world in a structured competition featuring rankings, championship titles and international exposure.
Often described as the "NBA of dance," the league aims to professionalize the industry and provide athletes with opportunities to compete at the highest level.
Family members, supporters and representatives from Pacific Industries Limited gathered at Jacksons International Airport to farewell the team ahead of their departure.
Among those present was Pacific Industries Limited Chief Commercial Officer Chris Humphries, who expressed confidence in the team's ability to once again make Papua New Guinea proud.
"Today is an exciting moment not only for Wan Squad, but for Papua New Guinea," Humphries said.
"Over the years, this remarkable group of young athletes and performers has proven that PNG talent can compete with the very best in the world, and their back-to-back world championship titles in the United States are a testament to their dedication, discipline and passion."
Humphries said the International Dance League marked an important milestone for both the sport and the team.
"As they embark on their first International Dance League campaign in Sydney, Mountain Dew and Pacific Industries Limited are proud to stand behind them. The International Dance League represents a new chapter in global dance, and it is fitting that Wan Squad is part of this historic movement as one of the world's elite crews," he said.
He added that the company remained committed to supporting young Papua New Guineans who continue to excel on the international stage.
"On behalf of Pacific Industries Limited and the Mountain Dew brand, we wish the entire Wan Squad team safe travels and every success in Sydney. We have every confidence that they will represent Papua New Guinea with pride, professionalism and the same championship spirit that has earned them international recognition."
Mountain Dew's continued sponsorship reflects the brand's commitment to youth development and supporting young Papua New Guineans who strive for excellence in their chosen fields.
The partnership is founded on shared values of determination, creativity, courage and the drive to push beyond limits—qualities that have become synonymous with both Wan Squad and the Mountain Dew brand.
The International Dance League is seen as a major step forward for the global dance industry, recognizing dancers as professional athletes whose years of training, sacrifice and discipline deserve international recognition. The competition provides pathways for dancers to pursue professional careers while competing against some of the world's best talent.
For Pacific Industries Limited, supporting Wan Squad extends beyond sponsorship. It represents an investment in young Papua New Guineans whose success stories continue to inspire others through hard work, perseverance and achievement.
As Wan Squad prepares to take on the world's elite crews in Sydney, the team carries with it the hopes of a nation eager to see its champions continue their remarkable journey on the international stage.
