First year dance student Praise Tupa’i is one step closer to her dream career of being a professional dancer at Unitec.

The nineteen-year-old from West Auckland has been dancing since the age of five, competing around New Zealand and on the international stage, bringing home a bronze medal from the World Hip-Hip Championships as a twelve-year-old.

But despite these proud achievements, Praise is just getting started on her dance journey.

Born into a household steeped in the performing arts, Praise’s father is an accomplished music artist while her mother is a performing arts teacher. That talent is also shared by her siblings who are all dancers.

Praise says dance brings out the best in her and helps her grow as a person.

“I love dance because it’s something that allows you to express yourself in a whole different light and element. It brings so much joy in times when you least expect it,” Praise remarks.
“I love that dance doesn’t judge you but pushes you to grow through movement.”

However, it was only in her late teens when she began to think seriously about pursuing dance as a career. 

“High School was a huge turning point for me. Moving schools to Avondale College really helped me find that passion again,” she says.
“This led me to having a proper think about my future and where I wanted to go after school.”

Seeing other dancers she knew graduate from Unitec, including her older sister, piqued her interest.

“Their growth as dancers and work ethic really inspired me to step out of my comfort zone and pursue my passion,” she explains.

Praise registered for Unitec Dance’s annual Winter Workshop to find out more about the programme in July 2024.

“I was ultimately sold after attending the winter workshop and seeing the diversity of the course. I saw that Unitec provided exactly what I was looking for. They offered so many things that I felt could benefit me as a dancer,” she remarks.

This convinced her to apply to audition for the Unitec Dance programme. The audition itself was nerve-racking but she was rapt when she got accepted for the 2025 intake.

“It’s okay to be nervous. My advice to those auditioning is to use those nerves and put it into your piece. Take all the emotion and everything you feel and let it be showcased through your movement. Never try to be a person you’re not, be yourself and let them see the true you,” she says.

Praise has thrived since embarking on her dance journey at Unitec this year. She is known among the first-year cohort as someone who brings her energy and passion to the studio every day.

“We dance four days a week and have theory classes with practical work,” Praise explains.
“Just watching the second and third year students showed me the kind of effort and commitment that goes into this course which not only sets you up for a career but also teaches you important life skills.”

The support she has received from lecturers and students in the dance programme have made a difference.

“Knowing that I'm learning from people who have vast experience in dance and support me to be who I want to have been a huge help for me,” she says.
“Being able to conversate with my classmates through movement has been such a beautiful way to express our support for each other. Without their support, this course wouldn’t be what it is for me now.”

The Head of Unitec Dance, Katie Burton says it has been a process of pure joy to observe Praise’s dance develop in her first year of study. 
“Praise embodies all that we strive for at Unitec Dance – she is curious, focused, dedicated, collaborative and consistently strives for excellence,” Katie explains.
“Praise is an exemplar of how you can be from a specific dance background such as Hip-Hop, and still find your place in our Contemporary Dance focused course. I love teaching Praise and look forward to working with her more!”

The wrap-around academic and pastoral support from Unitec’s support services have also helped her to focus on her studies.

“I know that there are people I can turn to for support. Everyone at Unitec is super helpful and have made my journey a lot easier,” she remarks.

Praise loves the inclusive environment which Unitec Dance fosters which encourages students to be themselves. This has made it easier for Praise to connect with their peers and lecturers.

“Unitec provides that safe space to let you grow through technique, movement, skill and creativeness,” adds Praise.

Coming from a hip-hop background, Praise also appreciates the diversity of the programme, which attracts students from all over Aotearoa and from different dance backgrounds. 

Praise says the relationships she has developed this year have contributed to her holistic growth as a dancer. She has also learned new habits which have kept her on the right path.

“Building relationships in dance is such an important skill to have. Being surrounded by like-minded people makes you want to be at school every day. It’s made me appreciate my surroundings,” she says.
“One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my first year is learning to be accountable for myself which was one of the main adjustments I had to make coming from high school.”

Praise attributes her Samoan heritage, hailing from the village of Safotu and Nu’usuatia, and the values taught to her by her parents for helping her to stay grounded, disciplined and committed to the pathway she has set for herself.

“My parents have constantly reminded me of my values and faith, which keeps me grounded. I believe I wouldn’t be standing where I am today without my faith, my values, my parents, and my family,” she shares. 
“Who I am today is a true reflection of the sacrifices my parents have made, to see me and my siblings achieve our dreams and strive to accomplish our goals.”

With two more years left in her degree, Praise is not looking too far ahead, but she plans to continue building connections in the dance industry and create new work after graduating.

“I want to be able to create a name for myself, where I can choose what is for me and what isn’t. Step out of my comfort zone and use the skills that Unitec has given me to pursue this dream,” she shares.

And her advice to other rangatahi (young people) considering a career in dance?

“If you truly love what you do and if you are truly passionate about dance, then be willing to sacrifice comfort, convenience, and sometimes even certainty for growth,” she says.
“Be ready to show up when you’re tired, to keep going when you’re doubting yourself or being doubted, and to invest time in refining your craft even when no one is looking.”
"Surround yourself with people who inspire you, be curious, stay humble and alway remember why you do what you do. Finding your place in dance isn’t about being the best in the room, it’s about dedication and willingness. Keep striving and always remember your why.”

Are you passionate about dance and interested in a career in dance?

Unitec Dance is New Zealand's only practice-based, industry-led dance degree programme, offering a full-time dance degree which encourages students to explore their own unique style.

Apply to audition for our 2026 intake. Our auditions are in Auckland on 14 September and 19 October 2025 and Christchurch on 11 October. We accept applications all year round.

Learn more or apply now for Bachelor of Performing and Screen Arts (Contemporary Dance).

For online Auditions email Katie Buron.

If you love to dance but need more support preparing for the audition, why not try our new certificate programme in dance starting in February and July 2026?

Apply now for the New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) - Performing and Screen.

Find out more about all Unitec Dance programme options.