Student Stories – Sharika, Year 10: International Dance Success
Our next Student Story is about Sharika, a Year 10 student at Maiden Erlegh School in Reading, whose dedication to ballroom and Latin dancing has taken her from local competitions to major international events — showing resilience, ambition and a genuine passion for her craft.
Sharika began dancing just before lockdown and now competes two to three times each month, taking part in events across the country and overseas. Her achievements include six category wins in Blackpool in 2024, reaching an international final in Barcelona, and returning to Barcelona again this December to compete in both ballroom and Latin solos.
Dancing is hugely important to her, and she hopes to pursue it in the future. She has met inspirational dancers from around the world, and is currently taught by Oti Mabuse, whose guidance has helped strengthen her technique and confidence.
Sharika’s dance school has provided many opportunities that have supported her improvement, and she credits her mum for being her constant support — driving her to lessons, preparing her hair and makeup, and helping her take part in every competition.
Reflecting on her journey, she said:
“Even at hard times, you can always achieve much more than you might think, and it will always be worth it in the end!”
Sharika, you’ve put so much into your dancing, and it shows. A fantastic achievement.
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