Before she was a hip-hop sensation destined for the bright lights of New York City, Xiniah Lewin lived in a blurred world where her potential remained unseen. But she’s found her rhythm and is ready to take New York!
Cape Town, South Africa (02 February 2026) – For years, Xiniah Lewin lived in a world that was both literally and figuratively blurred. Her parents mistook her quietness and ‘learning hurdles’ for a lack of confidence, never realising she simply couldn’t see the world around her.
As her mother, Chantal Lewin, shares with us in an interview, the moment Xiniah put on her first pair of glasses, it wasn’t just her vision that cleared – it was her spirit.
“She had all this pent-up life inside her, and she needed a place to let it out. We walked into First Step Dance School just six months ago, and I watched my daughter transform from a child who tried to disappear into one who demanded to be seen. She didn’t just start dancing, she started flying,” Chantal says.
The nine-year-old superstar found her stride in the Hip-Hop genre, adding a ‘cool’ update to her style and a boost in confidence after being teased for her glasses and feeling ‘different’ in the classroom.
“She needed a style that celebrated being unique. In hip-hop, there is no ‘wrong’ way to be yourself, it’s all about power, rhythm, and attitude. She went from hiding her face to wearing her glasses on stage as her signature ‘pro’ look. It’s her armour.”
When Xiniah hits a beat, she isn’t the once-bullied girl who struggled to read the chalkboard. Her light shines before the crowd – so brightly it’s earned her a spot in Team South Africa 2027 to compete at Talent America in New York City from 10-12 July next year.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to perform in front of international scouts and agents. As a single mom, seeing her overcome so much from the heartbreak of bullying to the bright lights of New York is my greatest motivation,” the proud mom says.
For Xiniah, dance ignites feelings of being limitless and the desire to prove that a girl from Cape Town with a pair of glasses and a big dream can out-dance her doubts – and rightfully so as this young powerhouse prepares to represent her country on the global stage.
To bring this opportunity to fruition, Chantal and Xiniah are on a mission to raise R120,000 to cover her flights, accommodation in Times Square, visas, competition fees, and the cost of a chaperone to ensure she is safe and supported during this international leap.
“We need to secure a R30,000 deposit by 15 December 2026, with the final balance settled by 31 May 2027.”
Xiniah pours her heart into Hip-Hop, moving with a passion and determination that captivates any audience. To help her get on the New York stage and shine, donate here.
Sources: Chantal Lewin
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