SA’s B-girl champ,Courtnaé Paul set on global glory once more
South Africa’s breaking scene isn’t just a dance movement—it’s a vibrant tapestry woven with creativity, resilience, and raw energy.
Emerging in the 1980s, this subculture of hip-hop has evolved from humble beginnings to a globally recognised art form, blending local traditions with international influences.
Icons like legendary pantsula dancer Tebza fused South African rhythms with styles like krumping and breakdancing, transforming the dance into a medium for unity and expression.
Hip-hop pioneers such as Cape Town’s Emile YX? and Prophets of Da City used b-boying to confront systemic oppression, proving that breaking isn’t just a dance—it’s a revolution.
Even during apartheid, breakdancers found ways to connect, battling in unconventional spaces like segregated train stations.
This defiance not only created a shared identity but also paved the way for a fashion movement. From Adidas tracksuits and Pro-Keds sneakers to modern streetwear, breaking has always been a fusion of style and skill.
Now, with breaking making its Olympic debut in 2024, South Africa’s b-boys and b-girls, have proved that passion, discipline, and cultural pride can transcend any challenge.
Among these pioneers is 4x B-girl champion and DJ Courtnaé Paul, a powerhouse who continues to push boundaries both on and off the dance floor.
From breaking barriers in male-dominated spaces to choreographing major events like The Sun Met and DSTV MVC Awards, Courtnaé is on a mission to showcase South Africa’s unique flavour to the world.
In a quick catch-up with GQ’s Luthando Vikilahle, Paul speaks about her journey, inspirations, and what’s next as she prepares to take the global stage once again.
GQ: How did you get into the sport and what would you says has made you one of the all-time greats in South Africa?
Courtnaé Paul (CP): I kinda stumbled into dance and breaking by chance. I was into sports from a young age, but dance wasn't really on my radar.
That was until I attended a new church and got exposed to dance. I started messing around with it, incorporating my gymnastics tricks into my routines, and before I knew it, I was hooked.
Fast forward to today, and people are calling me an all-time great? It's crazy to hear, but I'm proud of what I've achieved so far. Still, I feel like I'm just getting started.
There's so much more work to be done, and being part of this conversation only motivates me to keep pushing myself further.
GQ: You have been SA' top B-girl for the past four years and have a wealth of experience at international level too, so what can SA expert this time around when you are performing in Brazil?
CP: Honestly, it's an honour to be seen in that light. The last 4 years have been a resurgence of my breaking career with some insane highs and of course some pretty tough lows.
South Africa can expect to see the best version of me yet. I’m feeling “more Me” than ever. I want to enjoy myself, let the hard work shine, and represent myself and my continent to the fullest.
GQ: What are some of your proudest moments in break dancing, and why?
CP: My proudest moments have largely been from this year. I kicked off 2024 winning my second Red Bull BC One SA title and everything just steam rolled from there.
I ranked as the highest African in the inaugural Olympic qualifier series, commentated for the Olympics on SuperSport, picked up my second African title, had multiple features with platforms from Olympics.com to the BBC - the list goes on.
I’m also extremely proud to use my platform to spotlight breaking and advocate for women in sport. Honestly, every day that I get to live and chase my dreams is an absolute highlight.
GQ: Who are some of your role’s models in the sport, and why?
CP: I've got huge respect for Eddy B and B-Girl Roxy. Roxy, from the UK, was one of the first female breakers I saw when I started out, and she was already killing the game.
At a time when female breakers were scarce, she showed me that it's possible to thrive in a male-dominated space.
Today, she's not only a friend but also a constant source of motivation and inspiration. Eddy B, on the other hand, has been a friend, mentor, and training partner since I moved to Johannesburg over a decade ago.
He's the embodiment of longevity and perseverance, always reminding me to focus on my own journey and not compare myself to others. These are lessons that I carry with me to this day.
GQ: What is your everyday motto?
CP: Do something today that your future self will thank you for.
GQ: When it comes to fashion and styles, who are your go to brands for such events?
CP: I try to keep it simple, clean, and functional. You can usually catch me rocking a Red Bull BC One tee or crew neck, paired with some G-Star RAW bottoms and fresh Nikes on my feet. It hasn’t led me astray yet!
GQ: In your opinion, who do you think (which brands) influences the sport more in the country when it comes to fashion?
CP: I've noticed a bit of a revolving door when it comes to brands getting involved in the South African breaking scene. Puma was pretty active for a while, and now Nike and Reebok are starting to make moves too. Locally, though, I don't think any fashion brands have really claimed the space as their own... yet!
GQ: What are some of the biggest brands (fashion &style) that can be associated with the sport from its infant days to now in the country?
CP: Puma's been a major player in the breaking scene for decades. I'm talking all the way back to the 80s with iconic movies like Beat Street.
Fast forward to 2024, and Puma's still going strong, supporting top breakers in SA. Their commitment to the breaking community is undeniable.
GQ: What’s next for you?
CP: Life is always busy for me! As a competitive breaker, DJ, business owner, and content creator, I've got multiple projects cooking at any given time.
But on the competitive front, I've got some huge events coming up - Red Bull BC One World Final in Brazil, Undisputed Masters in Cape Town, and Battle de VaulX in France. Can't wait!
Outside of the battle floor, I'm passionate about giving back to the breaking community - especially the younger generation. I'm looking forward to sharing my knowledge and energy with up-and-coming breakers in Africa and beyond.
Credits:
Dressed by: G-star Raw
Image: Kabelo Mofokeng
Personality: Courtnaé Paul