Soraya Zapata's trophy cabinet is nearly full after a decade of dancing but the 14-year-old hopes to cram a few more in after competing in the Wollongong Eisteddfod's tap sections.
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The Farmborough Heights teenager has been competing at the eisteddfod for more than 10 years, taking out several major prizes including the 2011 Berisse Trophy and a $2000 scholarship.
Her mother Raquel said seeing her daughter excel made keeping up with Soraya's gruelling schedule worth it.
"It's so time consuming, she dances for 15 hours a week, in all styles but it's all worth it."
Soraya plans to pursue her passion into a full-time career.
"I want to do a professional show around the world."
Any major prize money she wins through competing goes towards her dream.
"We bank her major prize money for her future goals, so she can travel overseas," her mum said.
Soraya's tap teacher Brad Green from the House of PA said the industry could be difficult to negotiate for young dancers.
"The competition can be tough, we have to prepare students mentally going in," he said.
