Ricardo Mackenzie, Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Skeur Hom Dance Battle opens pathways for young Cape Flats talent
The energy, creativity, and talent of Mitchells Plain took centre stage on Thursday evening, 5 November 2026, as 18 finalists battled for a share of R10,000 in prize money at the inaugural Skeur Hom Dance Battle Finals, held at RLabs in Westridge.
Supported by the Western Cape Government, in collaboration with GrandMaster Ready D and the Great Cape Ambassadors Programme (GCAP), the competition celebrated an emerging street dance movement – “Skeur Hom” – rooted in the creativity and cultural identity of young people across the Cape Flats.
The 18 finalists competed in a series of one-on-one dance battles, showcasing their musicality and skill before a judging panel comprising Seeflex, Tayane and Lee-Shane. Mel Rock guided the competition, with performances by G-SQUARED, music from DJ Sophia, and an audience dance competition offering a G-SHOCK watch voucher.
Aaliyah Francis (13) from Eastridge was crowned the inaugural Skeur Hom Dance Battle champion, taking home the R5,000 first prize and a G-SHOCK watch voucher. Runner-up, Kirsty De Villiers from Ottery, received R3,000, while third-place finisher Mikyle Flowers from Eastridge secured R2,000.
Francis is a member of Team Ashertone, a dance club which also been confirmed as one of the finalists at the upcoming Mitchells Plain Festival. Supported by the Western Cape Government, the Festival provides another platform for emerging performers to showcase their talent, reach wider audiences, and access further opportunities within the arts and cultural sector.
Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Ricardo Mackenzie, welcomed the initiative as an important platform for recognising emerging cultural talent and creating positive opportunities and pathways for young people.
Minister Mackenzie said: “Tonight, we came together to Skeur! As the Western Cape Government, we wanted to give our young people a platform to showcase their incredible talent, not only in their own communities, but in a safe environment where their skills can be recognised and celebrated. Congratulations to our winners, Grandmaster Ready D and his team, and everyone who brought this event to life.”
Minister Mackenzie also shared highlights from the Skeur Hom Dance Battle Finals on social media:
- Video 1: Watch on Instagram
- Video 2: Watch on Instagram
Taking place during Mitchells Plain’s 50th anniversary year, the competition highlights the contribution of young people to the area’s evolving cultural identity, while reinforcing the Western Cape Government’s commitment to supporting local creativity, encouraging youth participation, and strengthening community pride.
Members of the public are encouraged to support local talent at the upcoming Mitchells Plain Festival, taking place from 4 to 6 December 2026, where Team Ashertone will be among the participating performers.
Media Enquiries:
Simone Carter
Media Liaison Officer
Provincial Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport
Tel: 066 289 9174
Email: Simone.Carter@westerncape.gov.za
#GovZAUpdatesWC
