International Fine Arts Association
ABOUT US
At IFAA, we’re all about celebrating dance and giving performers every opportunity to shine! We host competitions throughout the year, from our Dance Awards—perfect for new students and dancers gaining experience—to our SA Championships, where provinces go head-to-head to qualify for international competitions. The Gala Event brings together the best of the best for SA Champs, while International Competitions give dancers the chance to earn their SA Federation colours and take their talent to the global stage.
OUR HISTORY
It all began in 1987 when Brenda Willemse brought her passion for dance to Pretoria. After training with top choreographers around the world, she returned home with a dream—to create something extraordinary. That dream became the International Fine Arts Association (IFAA).
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By 1997, IFAA had made history as the first South African team to compete at the prestigious American Dance Championships, achieving remarkable success and putting South African talent on the world stage.
Brenda is one of South Africa’s most beloved dancers, choreographers, and mentors. Known for her boundless energy and love for dance and modelling, she continues to inspire a new generation of performers. Her mission has always been clear: to give young dancers and models a platform to grow, shine, and reach their full potential.
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Every year, IFAA challenges studios across the country to join the Dance Awards, S.A. Championships, and Dance & Modelling Grand Prix. These events aren’t just about competition—they’re about growth, connection, and celebrating the art of movement.
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Over the years, we’ve witnessed incredible talent blossom on our stages. Many of our young competitors have gone on to achieve international success, and our teachers have become world-class choreographers. At IFAA, we believe competition is about more than winning. It’s about building confidence, making lifelong friends, and celebrating the journey.
Brenda Willemse: “We believe every dancer, model, and teacher shares a love for the arts—no matter their skill level. At IFAA, we encourage respect, passion, and support for one another’s talent.”
OUR PHILOSOPHY
Our focus is on children, ensuring every young competitor enjoys the experience. While winning is exciting, it’s not the only way to appreciate competition.
We encourage kids to strive for their best while respecting others, regardless of scores.
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We challenge studios to join the International Fine Arts Association with this in mind: We’re doing it for the children and for the love of the arts.
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Our philosophy is that competition is about more than winning—it’s about growth, learning, building friendships, and developing a true appreciation for the arts. We aim to share a deep love for art with both students and teachers.
DIRECTORS
MELINDA
Melinda has lived and breathed dance for over 30 years. A talented dancer in her day, she turned her passion into mentoring when she could no longer perform herself. As the heart and backbone of IFAA, Melinda is our guiding force—without her, none of this would be possible.
LYNICE
Lynice, a former dancer, began by assisting at IFAA competitions. It was a natural progression for her, turning her passion for the arts and empowering the youth into an inspiring business opportunity.
CATEGORIES
DANCE
Acro Dance
Acrobatics, Rhythmic Gymnastics, and Creative Gymnastics
Ballet
Social Ballroom/
Latin
Disco
Jazz
Freestyle
Must include three different styles (e.g., Modern, Disco, Hip Hop)
Hip Hop/
Funk
Modern
Modern and Classical Modern
Jazz
Folk Dance
Examples: Spanish, Irish, Gumboots, etc.
Creative Dance
Song-and-Dance, Musical, Character, mime
Tap and Clogging
Contemporary
Line Dancing
Lyrical
Fusion
Combines two or more styles, such as Jazz, Ballet, Contemporary and Acrobatics
Adagio
Pas de Deux
Open Category
All other styles, including Cheerleading, Pointe, Aerial Hoop, Zumba, etc.
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MODELLING
Show Modelling
Combines dancing and modelling
Runway Modelling
Includes Swimwear, Daywear and Evening wear