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Inside a practice hall in Johannesburg’s eastern suburbs, choreographer Janecke led a group of cheerleading students through their steps. Following hours of practice of everything from body rolls to vogue dance with pom-poms, the excited group surrounded Janecke to create a TikTok of one of the newest amapiano challenges. They were done in only two attempts.

Rising International Presence

He has stood at the forefront of the increasing worldwide appeal of South African music and dance over the last several years. Collaborating with singer the musician since she was seventeen, he created the trending routine that accompanied smash single “Water,” which propelled the young SA artist to worldwide fame.

“Reflecting about my life it touches me deeply to understand this is where it’s reached, and that where it’s come to is a fresh beginning,” Janecke expressed.

Formative Beginnings

Janecke grew up in Bonteheuwel and later another township, both traditionally classified as “designated” areas. He heard his grandfather playing Madonna and Michael Jackson, he danced at family events. At first intended to study finance after school, but could not ignore the attraction of performance, in which he has learned informally.

Professional Journey

In the early 2010s, Janecke was exploring femininity in dance and embraced himself as a gay man. He was instrumental in launching V.I.N.T.A.G.E, South Africa’s first group of male dancers focused on vogue and whack, styles that emerged in NYC’s ball culture in the late 1980s and 1990s.

The crew, which expanded to include women and a costume designer, competed in numerous televised showcases. But, it finished second in almost all competition, something Janecke linked to South Africa not yet being open for queer performers.

During one incident, the group was targeted at a taxi stand as they returned from appearing at a pride event. A crowd surrounded their transport, screaming and shaking the taxi from one side to the other, until the conductor finally convinced them to break up. “It felt like:‘Well, this is the end for you,’” shared Janecke.

Major Moments

Eventually, the crew parted ways, as Janecke began receiving offers solo, directing the talent show Idols South Africa for six years. He was contracted by the artist’s first manager to train her. “I [felt]: ‘There is potential about this girl.’ It’s visible in her eyes,” he expressed.

Recently, a practice session was just a few days after the MTV Video Music Awards. The singer took home an award for her song. The music video was designed by him, who was also recognized for outstanding movement.

This was the pinnacle of over two years of collaborating with Tyla globally on everything from a TV finale to the BET Awards and a music festival. Janecke also designed international performances for DJ Uncle Waffles and instructed movement sessions at a dance studio, the studio of the a renowned company in New York, and at Playground in LA.

Next Goals

“In my view, the completion of that phase is the industry acknowledgment,” Janecke said. He was filming when he learned he had been nominated: “I immediately started crying. I was so emotional, I believe I continue to feel moved, because … I stayed awake, early morning, to watch the ceremony as it happened. I felt convinced that this moment is where my future awaits.”

Janecke gesticulated as he talked, getting up to show steps. “I must take the proper measures to keep communicating and establishing this brand out there, separate from the names associated with it.”

He outlined his dreams – securing a American representative, collaborating with names such as international acts to legends, and breaking into the Asian entertainment scene, brand campaigns and stage productions. He cited fellow choreographer an industry name as representing the caliber he knows he is capable of attaining.

Remaining Loyal

Even so, Janecke was assertive he would continue collaborating with Tyla: “We have a bond always … She remains dedicated about making songs and truly shifting the landscape globally.”

Even as Janecke expressed frustration that the local industry was missing the structured and seamless professional conditions of the America, he said he was South African to his core. “My vision created a routine embraced by the international community … therefore, to my mind, what I pursue is an African dream.”