Seven young dancers have received financial assistance to help pursue their dreams.

The 2026 recipients of the National Dance Foundation scholarships were revealed during a presentation at O’Hara House last week.

In order to qualify for the awards, applicants must demonstrate talent, commitment and financial need.

Julia Kempe, a member of the scholarship committee, said: “Since 2005, the National Dance Foundation of Bermuda has continued to award scholarships named in honour of the founding members of the Bermuda Ballet Association, while growing the fund to support more Bermudian dancers, teachers and choreographers in their pursuit of world-class training overseas.

“Thanks to the generosity of corporate and individual donors, over $1m has been awarded in scholarships, professional development grants and bursaries, helping more Bermudian dancers than ever to train, develop and perform professionally.

“But what’s truly remarkable is the impact that these awards have had on our recipients. A staggering 95 per cent of our past recipients remain involved in the dance world, performing, choreographing, directing, teaching and even working as physiotherapists in renowned companies and schools all over the world.”

Ava-Joy Moreno was awarded the most prestigious Catherine Zeta-Jones Scholarship, worth $15,000.

She is currently pursuing a BFA in dance with a minor in arts management at Marymount Manhattan College.

Ms Kempe said: “Ava-Joy is a shining star in the dance community — driven, talented and passionate about making her mark in the world of dance.

“Since receiving her first NDF fund in 2020, she has exemplified academic, dance and leadership excellence.”

Other recipients were Soleil Richardson, Vidya Cannonier-Watson, Skye Minors, Penelope Rose Barker, Aura Doran and Zh’Ky Tuzo.

Mary Faulkner, NDF committee member, spoke about the importance of the scholarships and bursaries.

“They are critical,” she said.

“Almost 100 per cent of Bermudians who are dancing professionally in dance companies and musical theatres internationally, they have all been recipients here.

“Our success record is incredible.”

Ms Faulkner added that the committee was “determined” to keep the foundation going.

Ms Cannonier-Watson received a professional development award.

The 18-year-old has just joined the trainee programme at London City Ballet where she holds ambitions to become a fully fledged member of the company.

She said: “It will help me quite a deal. London is a really expensive place to be, and this will help take away some of the financial strain.”