Faahkir Bestman (19) was always destined for greatness. From the moment he first stepped onto a dance floor, it was clear to all who saw him that he had something special. 

Dubbed Hanover Park's Billy Elliot, the young Capetonian caught the eye of Abeedah Medell of the famed Eoan Group when he was just eight years old. 

Believing in his talents, Abeedah gave Faahkir the formative training he needed and encouraged him to dream beyond his reality.

With each step, Faahkir grew stronger and more determined to dance on the big stages of the world. 

At just twelve years old, he won the inaugural Christopher Kindo scholarship, allowing him to attend the National School of the Arts in Johannesburg. In Grade 9, Intocast SA selected him for their bursary programme which covered all his expenses through high school.

Before his final matric exams, Faahkir was awarded the opportunity of a lifetime: a scholarship to attend the prestigious Joffrey Ballet School in New York. But he needs help to ensure that he can sustain himself when he is there and be ready for all eventualities. 

The Johannesburg Youth Ballet (JYB) has taken up the cause and is driving and managing a fundraising campaign on BackaBuddy, to ensure that Faahkir has everything he needs for his time at the Joffrey Ballet. 

Since the launch of the campaign, more than R90 000 has been raised with kind contributions from 81 donors, towards his fundraising target of R150 000, which will comfortably secure Faahkir’s needs for the year.

Funds raised will cover Faahkir’s visa and passport costs, his return flights to New York, his medical insurance, clothing and dance gear, bedding and cooking utensils for his residence, as well as a small amount of pocket money for his stay.

Faahkir has dedicated his entire life to his craft and has worked hard to achieve the success he has. WIth help from the public, Faahkir will be able to take the next step in his journey, and dance on the world’s stage.

"There are many talented young dancers who want to make a career out of dance, but it is perhaps once or twice in a lifetime that someone with Faahkir's talent, commitment, passion, and focus to achieve despite adversity crosses your path. I feel honoured and privileged to have worked with Faahkir on his dance journey. I have seen his growth as an artist in all genres of dance. He is eager to learn, takes and applies corrections, and is passionate about everything he does. He is a bright and humble young man, with incredible stage presence, that I know is destined for greatness." - says Mark Hawkins (Artistic Director of the Johannesburg Youth Ballet)

All additional funds raised by the campaign will be used to establish  “The Bestman Bursary” to assist other young dancers waiting in the wings to dance their dream!

The Youth Ballet is a registered NPC with public benefit status, meaning that all donations will receive a Section 18 A certificate for tax purposes. 

Together, we can fly Faahkir to the Joffrey Ballet in New York, where he will have the chance to reach his full potential and achieve his dreams. Let's make it happen for this talented and soulful young man!

Support Faahkir on BackaBuddy: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/faahkir-bestman-5466858023619445605

Alternatively, donate via Snapscan: https://pos.snapscan.io/qr/Faahkir_Bestman

Press release for immediate distribution: For more information, please contact Zane Groenewald- 082 602 0735 - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.