After coming to the 2022 HHINZ National Competition last month, the Cartel Crew raised enough funds to cover flights, accommodation, registration, Covid testing and travel insurance.

The Mafia Dance Family hip-hop team will be on a plane to compete at the World Hip-Hop Championships in Phoenix, Arizona from August 6-13.

With the help of family, friends and the community, the dance team nearly surpassed their initial goal of $120,000.

The 21 dancers, aged 12 to 17, held car washes, a gala, bake sales, raffles and a movie night to raise the huge amount they needed to get to America.

A group of Cartel Crew members said they were excited to travel to America and compete on the world stage.

“It’s great because we’re traveling with our best friends and it’s a first for all of us on the team,” they said.

There are several other New Zealand hip-hop crews traveling to the worlds; one team has already reached out to newbies to let them know they’ll have their backs while they’re in the championship.

The World Hip-Hop Dance Championship is a chance for Hawke’s Bay dancers to showcase their talents on a global stage.

“Everyone is beyond excited, the kids are training hard every day, sacrificing vacations and time with friends and family to create a world ready to blow America away”

To keep up to date with the overseas hip-hop team, you can follow Mafia Dance Family on Facebook.

And check the World Hip-Hop Dance Championship website for schedules and scores.