Crestar Students Shine: Stories of Growth, Confidence, and Creativity
December 18, 2025
At Crestar Learning Centre and Crestar School of Dance, every child’s journey is more than just learning a skill—it’s about discovering passion, building resilience, and growing in confidence. Across our Classical Ballet, Hip Hop/ Kpop, and Art programmes, students are not only mastering techniques but also developing qualities that will stay with them for life. Today, we are sharing the journeys of four inspiring learners who truly capture the heart of Crestar.
Emily Tim, 8 years old
Classical Ballet student from Crestar @ Hougang, joined in November 2023
When Emily first joined Crestar, her mother never imagined she would one day compete on stage. “Emily used to be slightly shy before an audience,” her mother shared. “But after joining the Crestar Young Talent Programme (CYTP) group and competing with her peers, she has grown in confidence. She even pushed through a competition while feeling unwell—she didn’t want to give up easily because everyone had given her so much support.”
In just two years, Emily has grown tremendously in both artistry and character. Her mother proudly recalls, “She now educates me on the right ballet moves—I have no idea how it’s done!” Beyond technical skills, Emily has learned to respect her seniors and work as part of a team, becoming more socially conscious.
Emily with her 1st place trophy at Supreme Singapore 2025 dance competition.
Emily says, “I enjoy practising with my classmates because it makes us work as a team.” One of her fondest memories was being selected for the competition class. “I was very surprised and happy,” she recalls. Despite starting ballet only at the end of Kindergarten 2, Emily quickly caught up with her peers and earned a silver medal in her first competition—despite battling stomach cramps minutes before going on stage. Looking ahead, Emily dreams big: “I want to be the CEO of a ballet school,” she says with determination.
Huang Zi Feng, 9 years old
Hip Hop student from Crestar @ Woodlands Civic Centre, joined in January 2024
Zi Feng’s hip hop journey has been one of growth and confidence. His mum shares, “Zi Feng has learned many techniques and poses, and he is now more confident in everything he does. His hip hop skills are strong and well-practiced. He also values teamwork and often says that the whole group plays an important part in their success.”
For Zi Feng, the classes have been both fun and transformative. “I have been learning so many new skills, and along the way I have made wonderful friends who make every class even more fun,” he says. Joining the Hip Hop Performance Crew (HHPC) was a turning point. “I feel like I have grown so much, especially after joining HHPC, which has helped me become a stronger and more confident dancer.”
Months of regular classes and HHPC training have paid off. “Being praised in HHPC meant so much to me and motivated me to keep getting better,” Zi Feng shares. His proudest moment? Winning first place in a recent dance competition with his crew. “It was such an unforgettable moment for all of us,” he says with pride.
Zi Feng (front row, 3rd from right) and his Hip Hop Performance Crew (Senior) teammate with their 1st place trophy at the Supreme Singapore 2025 dance competition.
Venice Teo, 11 years old
Art student from Crestar @ Woodlands Civic Centre, joined in August 2020
Venice loves expressing herself through art. “I enjoy doing the artworks that the teacher selects for us,” she shares. Her progress has been remarkable. “The day I started as a student in Crestar, I was confused and not really good at art, but after the help from my teacher, I have now improved in art and can paint and draw more confidently.” Today, she feels proud to participate in competitions and even receive awards for her work.
Venice’s artwork that won her the bronze prize at the Magic Eye 2025 Competition titled “Greenhouse Among the Stars”.
Her parents have noticed the transformation too. “Venice has become much more expressive and confident in her artwork. She enjoys exploring new techniques and is always excited to show us what she has learned.” They added, “She has developed stronger drawing and colouring skills, better attention to detail, and more patience when tackling creative challenges.”
Titled ‘Whispers of Bloom”, Venice’s artwork presents a vibrant bouquet of roses rendered in a contemporary decorative still-life style.
Confidence has been the biggest change. “She’s proud to share her ideas and artwork,” her parents say. “The most rewarding part is seeing her genuinely enjoy the process of creating art.” They believe these experiences will benefit her far beyond the studio: “This journey builds creativity, confidence, and problem-solving skills—qualities that will help her in school and life.”
Jolene Tan Yu Tong, 7 years old
Classical Ballet student from Crestar @ Marine Parade, joined in April 2024
Jolene’s journey at Crestar has been nothing short of transformative. Her mum shares, “Jolene has shown remarkable improvements in her stage presence and technique. The most significant change is her overall confidence.” Beyond dance steps, Jolene has developed discipline and focus, learning to concentrate and follow multi-step instructions during complex routines. “Confidence is absolutely the biggest change,” her mum adds. “She stands taller and speaks up more readily—not just in the studio but in other areas of her life.”
For Jolene, the classes have been a source of joy and pride. “I enjoy dancing with my friends and learning new steps,” she says. One of her favourite memories was learning the Silver Fairy variation. “Ms Julniee praised me for the arabesque, and sometimes friends stay to watch me dance—I feel great about it.”
Jolene practicing her ballet pose under the guidance of her teacher.
Her progress has been evident. “When I just started, I couldn’t point properly and didn’t remember the steps,” Jolene recalls. “Now, I feel much more confident. I’m not afraid to dance in the middle of the studio.” She is most proud of performing on stage without fear. “I love wearing pretty tutus, and I feel proud when my parents watch me. I’m also proud of getting more flexible and challenging myself to push more each day.”
Jolene at the Supreme Singapore dance competition, where she won 2nd place.
Her mum believes these experiences will benefit Jolene far beyond the studio. “The increased self-confidence and stage presence she has gained are invaluable life skills for school presentations, interviews, and social situations. The discipline and perseverance required in dance will teach her the value of hard work and commitment.”
These stories remind us that learning is more than mastering steps or strokes—it’s about building character, confidence, and creativity. At Crestar Learning Centre and Crestar School of Dance, we are proud to provide an environment where every child can discover their potential, pursue their passion, and dream big.
You can also be like one of them. Find out more about our programmes today!
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