💫 Class of 2025, Graduate Spotlight Zai Calliste took his first steps into ballet at the age of seven and has been dancing ever since. In 2021, he joined the Annette Roselli Dance Academy in Cairns, Australia, where he trained full-time for two years before joining English National Ballet School. During his training, Zai competed in numerous competitions, including The Fonteyn International Ballet Competition, where he placed third and received the prestigious Fonteyn Audience Choice Medal. For Zai, ballet is a powerful way to share the joy of dancing with audiences around the world. Reflecting on his time at the School, Zai shares that one of his biggest takeaways has been learning patience: “I think the biggest skill I’ve learned during my time at ENBS is patience—patience for the process, trusting the process, and patience with myself and how I’ve developed as a dancer. You know, I didn’t get everything on the first try.” Zai has particularly enjoyed the diverse range of works at ENBS and appreciates the direction Artistic Director Lynne Charles has brought to the School, blending neoclassical and contemporary styles with classical ballet. After a well-earned break following graduation, Zai will be joining @EnglishNationalBallet as a Company Artist for the 2025–2026 season. “I’m looking forward to artistic freedom—becoming the artist I want to be, with the guidance of the company. Being able to explore where I want to take my career through the support of Aaron and ENB is something I’m really looking forward to.” 🎉 Congratulations @zai.calliste on this incredible achievement. We’re so excited to follow your journey with ENB! 📸 @photography_byash #ENBS2025 #GraduateSpotlight #FutureOfBallet #ENBSFamily (fb)

💫 Class of 2025, Graduate Spotlight India Quambusch, originally from Sydney, Australia, joined ENBS in 2022. Before moving to London, India trained at the Tanya Pearson Academy. For India training at ENBS has been an incredible journey filled with unforgettable moments shared with amazing friends and the support of family. Moving from the relaxed lifestyle of the Northern Beaches to the fast pace of London was definitely an eye-opener, but also an exciting and deeply fulfilling experience. One of the highlights of India's time in the UK was competing in the Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition, held at the Royal Academy of Dance. India enjoyed meeting talented dancers from around the world, places like the United States, South Africa, Japan, and, of course, Australia. Connecting with such a diverse group of artists was incredibly inspiring and something India will always treasure. Another special moment was performing a Paquita solo at the Britten Theatre in London during a ballet competition, providing entertainment while the judges deliberated. Sharing the stage with friends Iori Miura and Zai Calliste made the day even more memorable. "After spending three years training alongside the same group of dancers, we’ve all grown very close, we’ve become like a family. It’s hard to believe we’ll soon be going our separate ways, but the ballet world is small, and I’m hopeful that our paths will cross again, perhaps even on stage as professionals." ☀️ @indiaballerina_ goal is to become a company artist in Australia, and is looking forward to returning home to family, friends and sunshine! 📸 @photography_byash #ENBS2025 #GraduateSpotlight #FutureOfBallet #ENBSFamily (fb)