A group of young dancers from Atlantic City showed they can compete with the best last week.
Hot Topic Dance Academy returned from the Allstar World Championship in Orlando, Fla., with gold and silver wins.
This is the third time Hot Topic has been world champs, noted Whitney Brown, the academy's proud owner.
The "mini-divas" ages 8 to 11 got gold, while the older group came in second in the junior division.
The two teams based out of Atlantic City's PAL topped all their previous competitions this year, Brown said.
"We are thrilled to share the incredible experience Hot Topic Dance Academy had competing at a world competition in Florida, where we went head-to-head with teams from all over the world, including Mexico and the (United Kingdom)," Assistant Coach Ahmir Harper said.
"Working with the youth and helping them stay on the right track is a rewarding and fulfilling experience," Harper added. "It's about more than just teaching dance moves or skills, it's about guiding, inspiring and empowering the next generation.
"By providing mentorship, support and a positive environment, we can help young people navigate challenges, build confidence and make positive choices. Seeing them grow, succeed and thrive is truly heartwarming and reminds us of the importance of investing in our future leaders."
The gold medalists are Que'yahna "Shi Shi" Bailey, 8; Kylie Coley-Mack, 9; Kha'miyah Freeman, 9; Salae Gist, 10; Karima James, 10; Danasia Kemp, 10; Zakiyah Mitchell, 11, Aasia Woodall, 10.
Silver medalists are Amatullah Abdullah, 12; Ty'keema Brown, 14; Chasity Bryant, 12; Ayana Frierson, 12; Wahirah "Wah Wah" Hill, 13; Jasmaine Kindred, 14; Za'hyrah Fisher, 12, and Keshad Reynolds, 15.
The older group of dancers took silver.
