My name is Ruben, I am a 16 year old ballet dancer from Andover,  Hampshire. I started ballet when I was 9 years old and in 2015 , at the age of 11 , my dream came true and I was offered a place to train at The Royal Ballet School.

Now 5 years on... time has come for me to move on and progress my training  

After having worked so hard repeatedly for years, especially during the difficult months of covid 19, I was over the moon to receive the brilliant news that I was awarded a place in another prestigious school. I was very fortunate to receive a 100% artistic scholarship for The Joffery Ballet School in Chicago (USA), to start in September 2021 

I made a decision at a very young age to be a ballet dancer, I understood the hard work involved and I am fully committed and passionate about a future in ballet.  I know my parents (even my older sister) have made so many sacrifices to get me this far and personally I have willingly given up a normal childhood to train as hard as possible.

Going to Chicago, is a wonderful, exciting and rare opportunity but also a very expensive one. Unfortunately my scholarship does not include travel to and from Chicago, accommodation, health insurance, visas, food and living expenses. I am hoping that some of you might be able to help me raise some funds to achieve my dream of becoming the best ballet dancer I can possibly be. I promise every person that believes in me that I will give it my best shot and work as hard as I possibly can. One of the hardest things that I am going t have to deal with is leaving  my family/friends  and coping the best that I can with home sickness.

I would like to be able to come home from to time to give my Mum and Dad a hug (if its possible) but I realise that its very expensive and might not happen very often. 

Maybe you are not able to help me on my journey by making a donation, or maybe you have some extra air miles you want to share with me. Please know that I am greatly appreciative of any help, even if it is just a word of encouragement and that you believe in me. 

With lots love & huge thank you
                     Ruben x