Young ballerina Kaiya steals the spotlight in Tobago

KAIYA Prima is an aspiring eight-year-old ballerina. With her passion for movement and a natural talent, Kaiya is already making waves in dance in Tobago and has big dreams for her future.

Kaiya attends Scarborough RC School and is in Standard 3.

When Newsday Kids asked what she loves most about dancing, Kaiya's face lit up while she explained, "I love how my body moves to the music. When I hear the music, my body just moves. I feel free."

It's clear that for Kaiya, dancing is not just a hobby but a form of self-expression and liberation.

As an active member of two dance groups, Signature Steps Dance Studio and Youthquake, Kaiya gets the opportunity to explore various styles. At Signature Steps Dance Studio, she practices modern dance and ballet, and at Youthquake, the focus is primarily on African and calypso dances. Kaiya credits her teachers, Kelly-Ann Withstrum and Shadé Alfred, who are also her favourite dancers, for inspiring and guiding her along her dance journey.

Asked about her favourite dance moves, Kaiya said, "I love the twirling dance move. And I’m now learning tap, so all those moves are my favourites."

She loves jazz songs, but top of her list are the songs from Lion King.

She added with a smile, "Daddy calls those African songs."

Being on stage doesn't faze her: "I feel bold and confident when I perform."

Her dream performance? Dancing on her favourite Netflix show, Family Reunion, in front of American actor Tia Mowry.

In addition to dance, Kaiya also has aspirations to become a professional runner like the legendary Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce.

She believes becoming a great dancer requires a lot of practice, staying hydrated by drinking lots of water, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Like many other dancers, Kaiya faced challenges during the covid19 pandemic. Forced to dance on Zoom and unable to dance with her friends, she admits it was tough at times. However, she persevered and found ways to continue honing her skills.

One of Kaiya's most cherished memories is when her dance class performed an umbrella dance to Beyonce's Break My Soul. She recalls it as a fun and unforgettable experience that has left a lasting impression on her.

With a creative spirit, Kaiya enjoys creating dances on her own as well.

"I create dances all the time. Sometimes I hear a song on TV and I begin to freestyle."

Through her dancing, Kaiya believes she can help others express themselves and build confidence.

Looking ahead, Kaiya plans to perfect her tapdancing skills, a style she has recently started exploring.

She also has a soft spot for dance movies, with Feel The Beat on Netflix being one of her favourites.

When asked where she sees herself in the future, Kaiya's eyes sparkle with ambition. "I think I would be dancing on big stages or in one of my Daddy's movies.”

Her father, Jared Prima, is an aspiring filmmaker who has been making strides in the film production industry on the island.

With her dedication to her craft and unwavering enthusiasm, look out for Kaiya Prima among the big names of the future.