This spring, Chapman’s student-organized hip hop performance team, Team Shaka, stepped outside of the university’s performance spaces for the first time ever and brought back two 1st Place trophies and boundless Panther pride. Shaka Co-Presidents, Jimena Casasola and Nanea Yu, had a dream their freshman year to take the team to World of Dance (WOD), and as seniors this year, their dream was fulfilled beyond their imagination.

Team Shaka competed at World of Dance Los Angeles with a brand-new set choreographed by the Co-Presidents as well as the group’s Co-Vice Presidents, Cate Andrews and Emma Lajuene. They took the stage in the Collegiate Division with the crowd full of Shaka supporters, including friends, family, and Chapman alumni, to cheer on the team. At the awards ceremony, Team Shaka was announced as 1st Place in the Collegiate Division, and also won the Team Division with a final score of 94.91 out of 100. 

The Shaka performance team is open to students of all majors and all grade levels to audition each Fall semester. They train by bringing in industry professionals for guest masterclasses and by holding community classes taught by Team Shaka members, open to everyone in the Chapman community. This year, along with their first time competing at World of Dance, they performed at Choreographer’s Carnival LA and hosted “Shaka Labs,” a workshop-style class experience. 

Members of Team Shaka have proudly walked around the Sandi Simon Center for Dance on campus, showing off their trophies and watching back their winning routine in their dance classes. A few members spoke about their experience on the team and what Shaka means to them.

How would you describe the bond between Team Shaka members?

Cate Andrews ‘27, Team Shaka Co-Vice President: “Team Shaka is made up of incredibly hardworking and passionate individuals, but what sets us apart is the depth of our relationships. We meet once a week for rehearsal, but we’re constantly spending time together outside of that space. We know each other beyond just being dancers, we understand each other’s strengths, energy, and individuality, which shows in how we move together as a team. Our presidents, Jime and Nanea, have created such an open and supportive environment where everyone feels valued. One moment that really stuck with me was right before going on stage, Sophia Seymour, a senior on Shaka, looked at me and said, ‘I’m so proud of you.’ It was such a small moment, but it made me feel seen. That kind of support defines the bond we have.”

Jonah Smith ‘27: “Truly it’s unmatched, I look forward to Shaka every Monday night because of the people I’m surrounded with.”

Emma Jenninngs ‘29: “Everyone’s super welcoming and the environment is super supportive.”

What was the preparation like for World of Dance for Team Shaka’s first year competing?

Cate Andrews ‘27: “Preparation for World of Dance was intense, especially because we were balancing multiple performances at the same time. Just one month before WOD, we performed at the Choreographers Carnival, which meant we were simultaneously creating and refining different pieces. As part of the exec team, we would meet before rehearsals to map out the vision, starting with the energy of each section and how we wanted the audience to feel. From there, we’d use a whiteboard to plan formations and stage dynamics, making sure every moment had intention. The process was collaborative and we built the piece together in a way that reflected both our collective identity and individual strengths.”

AbbeyRose Bermejo ‘28: “The preparation for WOD was the perfect balance of hard work and just enjoying the moment. We were able to get stage ready in just a few rehearsals by putting in the work while staying grounded in the experience. No stress, a lot of sweat, and so many memories!”

Jonah Smith ‘27: “Lots of rehearsals and commitment! We were so blessed that our presidents Jime and Nanea got us this opportunity that it was our turn to give back that same drive and passion to them.”

Sophia Seymour ‘26: “I personally had the best time because I got to watch my two best friends do what they have always dreamed of. And they did it with such heart and grace. They are a well-oiled machine, and I’m grateful to be along for the ride.” 

What does this win mean for Team Shaka moving forward? What are some goals for future years or competitions?

Nanea Yu ‘26, Team Shaka Co-President: “As much as Jime and I wanted to challenge ourselves choreographically, compete, and showcase our incredible team, our entire intention in competing for the first time was to set a starting point for Team Shaka to excel beyond us. The team has always been incredibly strong, and since freshman year, we’ve dreamed of reaching larger audiences. We have always known the value of this team, and it was important for us to highlight it beyond the Chapman community. As we graduate, the team will be in a new set of hands, and we hope the legacy continues and that Team Shaka’s name reaches further and further.”

Cate Andrews ‘27: “Winning at World of Dance was an incredible moment, but what we gained from the experience goes beyond the trophy. It gave us confidence and validated the hard work we’ve put in all year, while also honoring the legacy of the teams before us. Moving forward, our goal is to stay true to who we are. We want to continue creating choreography that reflects our personality and our community. As Team Shaka, we’re not interested in changing who we are just to win. The goal is to push boundaries, challenge ourselves creatively, and make an impact on the industry in our own way.”

Melayna King ‘28: “From the start of this year, there was a lot of talk about wanting to showcase the team outside of just the school. Winning this competition was huge for getting our name out there, and it was so nice to meet a bunch of dancers on other teams from all around California.”

AbbeyRose Bermejo ‘28: “This win means everything to Team Shaka. We pour so much heart, love, and dedication into this team, and there’s no better way to share that than through our debut performance at World of Dance. That said, this moment isn’t the finish line. We’ll keep training at the level we’ve set and continue to lead with the authenticity, passion, and integrity that define Shaka. This is only the beginning!” 

What would you say to incoming Chapman students interested in joining Team Shaka?

Emma Lajuene ‘27, Team Shaka Co-Vice President: “Team Shaka has been the most significant part of my time at Chapman thus far. I have never felt more supported and inspired by a group of people. Since freshman year, our Monday night rehearsals have been the highlights of my week. Team Shaka gave me a sense of community from the moment I joined the team. Being on this team has been one of my greatest joys at Chapman, and I would do it all over again a million times if I could. I feel a lifelong friendship with my team members, and they have pushed me to grow into the person I am today. This team means the world to me, and has been one of the best joys of my life.”

Cate Andrews ‘27: “Joining Team Shaka my sophomore year was one of the best decisions I’ve made. It gave me new performance opportunities and a room full of dancers who constantly push and inspire me. If you’re considering auditioning, go for it. Shaka is a community that will challenge you, support you, and help you grow both as a dancer and as a person.”

Téa Perez ‘28: “It’s a really awesome team, and everyone is insanely talented. Being a part of this team was one of my biggest goals at Chapman because the community is so hardworking and positive. I encourage students to join Shaka because it has changed my life here at Chapman.”

Melayna King ‘28: “This team has the best energy and I’m constantly inspired by everyone in the room with me. Everyone is always ready to give it their all and performing with this team is the most fulfilling experience. If you’re contemplating auditioning for the team, DO IT!”

AbbeyRose Bermejo ‘28: “You will make unbreakable bonds, receive incredible training, and make the best memories. You will absolutely 100% have the best time EVER!”

Co-President Nanea Yu and Co-Vice President Cate Andrews shared some final thoughts on their experience on Team Shaka, the team’s success this season, and the leadership opportunities this club has given them.

Nanea Yu ‘26: “I am so unbelievably proud of the team. I admire each and every member deeply and am incredibly grateful to have such a dream team to collaborate with in creating a strong, creative piece in such a short amount of time. Shoutout as well to everyone who came out to support us at our in-studio showing and at WOD, including our former presidents, Kacie and Char, who lit a fire in us to push harder on stage and gave us so much love and confidence going into the competition.”

Cate Andrews ‘27: “Being part of Team Shaka has been one of the most defining experiences of my college journey. Serving as Co–Vice President has pushed me to grow as a leader and collaborator. Learning from the execs, Emma Lajeune, Nanea Yu, and Jimena Casasola, has been a one-of-a-kind experience. They challenge me to think bigger and push myself creatively in ways I didn’t know I was capable of. The level of talent in this room is unmatched, and it continuously inspires me to show up with choreography that’s stronger than the last time. I am so proud of what we’ve built and even more excited for what’s ahead.”