Year 8 student Skyler Olivier wins Junior Solo Hip Hop Grand Champion at Velocity Grand Finals, now heading to Australia for Evolution Nationals.

Year 8 ākonga heads to Australia after standout solo win at Velocity Grand Finals

Year 8 dancer Skyler Olivier has been crowned the 2025 Junior Hip Hop Solo Grand Champion at the Velocity Grand Finals, held at Auckland’s Q Theatre.

Dancing solo in a highly competitive field, Skyler impressed the judges with her skill, presence, and confidence. She now advances to the Evolution Nationals in Australia this January, where she’ll represent Aotearoa on an even bigger stage.

Her mum, Chantel Olivier, along with grandparents from both South Africa and New Zealand, were proud supporters throughout the event.

Skyler is no stranger to the stage, already excelling in crew competitions. But this solo win shows just how far she’s come as an individual performer. “Building self-confidence from a young age is very important,” she said. “It helps you keep going whether times are good or tough.”

Skyler’s journey continues in January when she travels across the Tasman for the Evolution Nationals in the Junior Solo HipHop division.

Photo credit: Chantel Oliver