A group of talented dancers from around the country will represent Fiji to the Hip Hop International South Pacific dance competition to be held in New Zealand next month.

The MATA dance group which consist of 20 dancers are refining their skills to perform in front of thousands of audience as well as compete for the top spot – to reach the World hip-hop challenge.

Group’s choreographer Tevita Tobeyaweni says they only have less than six weeks to be on their best form to fly Fiji’s flag on the regional hip-hop stage.

He adds the set and routine that will be performed will consist of what hip-hop means to young Fijians nowadays and what its culture is to Fiji.

It’s been a challenge for all of us who are part of the crew, a challenge for our families as well but we’re all pretty positive that we’ll make it across on that stage and make Fijians proud.  We’re trying to show the hip-hop dance culture here in Fiji it has really changed from what it used to be back in the day. Right now it’s very diverse because of the influence of technology and social media but we want to stay true to our culture and who we are as Fijians.

The MATA group hopes to gain as much exposure on the international front and ensure upon their return, they’re able to pass on new found skills and choreography to other local dancers.

The winner from the South Pacific Islands competition will represent the region to the World hip hop dance championship in USA in August.