Ciara Hiwat
Ciara Hiwat has been nominated for the Young Swan Award for Most Impressive Youth Dance Achievement of 2026 for her role in *KABITENI* (14+) by Lloyd Marengo (Lloydscompany).
Jury about the nomination
“Ciara Hiwat is a well-rounded dancer. Her technique is strong, her presence is radiant, and her musicality is immediately apparent. She breathes with the music, and that’s evident in every movement. That sense of musicality is a gift you’re born with—it can’t be taught.
She effortlessly shifts from large, expressive movements to small details, always remaining believable. The audience follows her with ease. She knows how to draw people into her story and immediately returns the trust she receives.
The jury saw someone who dances from within: clear, fearless, and fully present. What Ciara is showing us now feels like an introduction to a powerful and captivating dancer.”
About Ciara Hiwat
Ciara Hiwat (25) is from Rotterdam and has been dancing hip-hop ever since she could walk. Her dynamic movements effortlessly reflect the emotions of others. With a deep passion for hip-hop and a unique blend of different dance styles, Ciara never ceases to surprise and inspire. For her, dance is more than just movement; it is a powerful medium through which she can tap into hidden emotions within herself and others. In 2024, she danced in Sheree Lenting’s choreography as part of the double bill *POWER*, for which she won the BNG Bank Prize. A year later, she shone in the second Lloydscompany production, *KABITENI*, which blends hip-hop and Surinamese dance. That same year, she also received the VandenEnde Foundation scholarship from Summer Dance Forever for young Dutch talent.
“Ciara breathes with the music. She shifts from grand expression to subtle detail while remaining completely believable throughout. The jury sees a young woman who draws on her own strength: clear, fearless, and fully present.”