Talented young dancer, Samantha Wong, has been named the recipient of the prestigious Valrene Tweedie Scholarship Trust Fund for 2025.
The Cecchetti Ballet Australia scholarship, established in memory of the late Valrene Tweedie O.A.M., a figure dedicated to the world of dance, is awarded bi-annually to support young dancers pursuing full-time vocational training who may face financial hardship. The $10,000 scholarship is distributed at the discretion of the National Council, Selection Committee, and Trustees, recognising worthy applicants on merit.
Samantha commenced her dance journey with Denise and Annabelle Utz at the Denise Utz School of Dance, where she completed all her Cecchetti examinations. She then progressed to full-time training at Alegria Dance Studios under the tutelage of Hilary Kaplan and Archibald McKenzie.
Aspiring to become a professional ballet dancer on international stages, Samantha is focused on showcasing both artistry and pure technique. Her dedication has already seen her receive scholarships from esteemed U.S. institutions such as the Colorado Ballet and Florida Ballet. The Valrene Tweedie Scholarship will be instrumental in enabling her to pursue these incredible opportunities, covering critical expenses associated with enhancing her training, undertaking an audition tour, building industry connections, and establishing a strong foundation for a career in a world-class ballet company.
Carole Hall O.A.M., on behalf of the trustees of the Valrene Tweedie Scholarship Trust Fund, congratulated Samantha on her achievement and acknowledged her teachers for their excellent training.
Samantha shared her gratitude, stating, "I’m incredibly honoured to be awarded the 2025 Valrene Tweedie Scholarship Fund. I’ve grown up learning the Cecchetti syllabus and have competed in all the various competitions growing up; NSW Medal Awards, Lucie Saranova Awards and representing Australia at the Cecchetti International Ballet Competition last year. Being awarded this scholarship feels like a full-circle moment.
"I’m so grateful for the opportunity and recognition from Cecchetti Australia and the Trustees of the Valrene Tweedie Fund. Thank you all my teachers who have played a role in my journey so far, in particular, Hilary Kaplan, Archibald McKenzie, Annabel Utz and Denise Utz."