DANCING QUEEN

Autistic champion Peyton needs help to get to world title

-  MARSHA DEAN

PEYTON Connor from Welgelegen proves that being differently-abled does not define her as she has risen against the odds to represent South Africa at this year's Dance World Cup in Burgos, Spain.

Peyton, 14, was diagnosed with Anxiety Disorder and high-functioning Autism in 2023. She has been a dedicated dancer since the age of five and is a member of K&J Dance Unlimited.

She specialises in contemporary, modern, commercial, jazz and hip-hop styles.

She competed at the South African qualifiers for the Dance World Cup (DWC) last month and won four gold medals after placing first in four of her categories.

Peyton says that she loves how dancing makes her feel free and confident.