The world’s largest international student ballet competitions has just shortlisted a young Maltese ballerina for the final round of the contest. Set to participate in the New York finals in April 2020, the 11 year old will be joining a slew of other hopefuls from around the world vying for a scholarship to one of the world’s best dance schools.

The news was revealed earlier today on Facebook by ballet mistress Brigitte Gauci Borda. In the post she expressed great pride at her student's brilliant achievement:  “Claudia is the FIRST student from Malta to make it to the finals of YAGP in the classical ballet category! This is such exciting news! Congratulations Claudia !! Congratulations also to Ms Tatiana for her continuous support and coaching. 👏🏻🥰” she wrote.

Attached to the post was a photo of an adorable handmade card made by the young ballerina. Claudia Santamaria extended her gratitude to her mentor for having seen her through to the finals: "I thank you loads for preparing me and giving me so many opportunities to shine and do my best. After all, you, Ms Brigitte, are the one who makes all my dreams come true" she wrote.

Claudia qualified for the finals earlier this season through her performance in the competition semi-final held in Paris. Performing a variation from Paquita, the young ballerina confirmed on her YouTube channel that the event was “one of the best experiences of her life.” Claudia was supported by the Young Talent Fund and the Art Council's National Fund for Artistic Excellence. We can't wait to see you perform on the American stage!

Best of luck Claudia!