It was a real honour, says dance teacher

She has determination in spades, but Natraj School of Dance founder Prabha Ravi says the recognition that came with winning a Hutt City Civic Honour Award nevertheless gave an unexpected boost to her work with budding dancers.

Prabha, winner of last year’s cultural affairs category, teaches traditional South Indian dance at premises in Avalon. More than 400 students have passed through her doors since she arrived from the city of Chennai (formerly Madras) 13 years ago and promptly set up a studio.

Mastering the traditional dance technique takes most pupils 10 years – which is why she has held only three graduation ceremonies for senior students, who are expected to put on a solo performance lasting up to two and a half hours. A former performer herself, Prabha knows about hard work and commitment, but she says last year’s award was a real fillip.

“What I most appreciated was that the selection process was completely fair and unbiased. Winners in all categories were acknowledged for the contribution they had made in their particular field. I wouldn’t hesitate to encourage everyone in the community to think about someone worthy of a nomination.

”The awards are offered in the categories of community services, cultural affairs, educational services, recreation, social welfare, youth activities and voluntary work by a person aged 15-25. Application forms are available from any council library, the council’s offices or at www.huttcity.govt.nz. Nominations close on June 8.