Papua New Guinea’s top hip-hop dance crew, Wan Squad arrived this afternoon August 21, 2024, to a warm and energetic welcome from families, friends and supporters that turned up at the International Jackson’s Airport to welcome the dancers after winning gold in Arizona, USA. The atmosphere was electric and emotional as the crew, who won gold with their exceptional dance performance, proudly brought their achievement back to the country. Their victory not only elevated their dance to new heights but also put PNG on the global map. The group's creative director Pyan Ng said it was not an easy win for the team and are thrilled to bring the gold back home. He said, the process to get to were they are today a challenge that tested them mentally and physically. It was not an easy journey for the team to get this win. "One of the first one was jet let." "We were sleeping at 3am and waking up at midday." "Other than that, the process on getting here was a challenge in terms of challenging ourselves creatively, mentally and physically and to get this win was not an easy journey for us and we're excited to bring the gold back home," said Pyan. "This year we took it upon ourselves to commit more." "We've done courses, learning to expand our knowledge in terms of understanding the rule book and requirements to win this competition." "We got to speak to international judges, international choreographers to give us more insight to understanding everything." "Other than that, the boys were 100% committed." "We had Mountain Dew and Indomie behind us 100% financially support us financially and without everyone coming together this year, we wouldn't be where we are right now." Joining the crew on the international stage were the two newbies, brothers Ajay Ravu and Joseph Ravu from the Central Province. With huge smiles, both brothers expressed excitement as this was a first-time experience for them and returning home with gold gave their families, friends and supporters outside the airport reason to celebrate with much electrifying emotion. Pyang said, hearing the PNG national anthem on the world stage was an iconic moment not just for the team but for the country as a whole. "Because as you all know, you will only hear your national anthem when you win gold." "And in history, this is the first time to see or hear the PNG national anthem on world stage, even the Pacific islands and we've beat many countries that have not heard our national anthem," said Pyan. Out of 55 countries who took part in the 2024 World Hip Hop Dance Championship, PNG' s very own Wan Squad qualified through all rounds and won god. Pyan encouraged young passionate dancers to continue. Meanwhile, Pacific Industries - Mountain Dew Brand Manager Nathaniel Lepani said they were thrilled with the achievement the boys accomplished with this win brining the tally up to four international wins for PNG. "We're esthetic and proud of the guys." "We know the hard work they've put in over the years." "This been the fourth year that they've gone and brought back the number title and gold medals." "We are just super proud."