A DUNDONALD teenager has been named the Dance Assistant of the Year at the inaugural Dance Awards NI.
Jenna Hamilton is adept in many forms of dance, having been practising since she was seven years old. Now 17, she is well versed in ballet, hiphop, acro, jazz and more.
Since she was just nine years old, she has been aiding her younger dancers at Elite Dance Studios in Dundonald.
Her long time dedication to her role led to her being crowned the Dance Assistant of the Year at the awards on October 5 at the Culloden Hotel. She was nominated by a parent of one of the children she helps teach.
Jenna said she is delighted to have won the award.
“Being nominated in itself felt massive to me because I have been involved in dance for so long,” she said.
“I have no idea who nominated me. My mum always says ‘you don’t realise your worth’.
“I am there from Tuesday to Saturday teaching the kids. I also help at the classes in Comber since they branched out.
“The award makes me want to work harder, to go on to achieve bigger and better things. I think, what else can I achieve?” She added.
Jenna paid tribute to her dance teacher, Lauren Russell, who she says has had endless belief and time for her students.
“I am so thankful for the opportunity from my dance teacher. From the moment you walk through her doors, she gives belief support and encouragement. She is the one who believes in you when no one else does,” added Jenna.
