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Within a practice hall in the eastern part of Jo’burg, dance instructor Janecke led a team of student cheerleaders through a routine. Following an extensive session of including fluid movements to ballroom-inspired cheer moves, the excited group surrounded Janecke to film a social media video of one of the newest South African amapiano viral moves. It was completed in a couple of tries.

Expanding Worldwide Influence

He has stood at the forefront of the growing international appeal of SA dance and music over the last several years. Having worked with performer Tyla since she was 17, he choreographed the internet sensation that was part of hit song “Water,” which propelled the emerging SA performer to global stardom.

“Talking about my journey I feel moved to realize how far it’s reached, and that where it’s come to is a brand new chapter,” he shared.

Early Roots

Janecke grew up in a community in Cape Town and later Eldorado Park, both historically known as “Coloured” areas. Influenced by his elder playing music legends, he performed at family events. At first aimed to study business after school, but could not ignore the attraction of movement, in which he has is self-taught.

Professional Journey

Over a decade ago, he delved into identity in dance and acknowledged himself as LGBTQ+. He co-founded a performance group, South Africa’s first all-male dance team focused on vogueing and whacking, dance forms that originated in New York’s underground dance community in the past decades.

The group, which expanded to include women and a costume designer, participated in numerous televised showcases. But, it finished second in all but the last one it entered, something Janecke linked to South Africa not yet being ready for queer performers.

Years ago, the group was targeted at a public transport stop as they returned from performing at an LGBTQ+ celebration. A group surrounded their transport, yelling and moving the van from side to side, until the operator finally convinced them to leave. “It gave:‘Yeah girl, we’re done for you,’” said Janecke.

Key Achievements

Eventually, the group dissolved, as Janecke was hired alone, choreographing the TV program a popular show for six years. He was hired by Tyla’s first manager to coach her. “I thought: ‘There is potential about this artist.’ I noticed it in the expression,” he recalled.

Fast-forward to 2025, the rehearsal was just a few days after the MTV Video Music Awards. The artist took home a trophy for her song. The visual was choreographed under his direction, who was also nominated for outstanding movement.

It marked the highest point of over two years of collaborating with Tyla internationally on projects including a TV finale to the an entertainment ceremony and a music festival. Janecke also created international performances for an artist and taught dance workshops at Ailey Extension, the school of the a prestigious group in NYC, and at a Los Angeles venue.

Next Plans

“For me, the completion of that phase is the industry acknowledgment,” Janecke said. He was working when he found out he had been shortlisted: “I instantly became emotional. It overwhelmed me, I believe I remain touched, because … I woke up, early morning, to watch the ceremony as it happened. I was certain that here is where my future awaits.”

He gestured as he spoke, getting up to perform routines. “I have to take the proper measures to continue communicating and building this brand recognized, separate from the figures attached to it.”

He outlined his ambitions – securing a stateside manager, collaborating with names such as international acts to Beyoncé and Madonna, and entering the Asian entertainment scene, advertising and stage productions. He referenced another artist an industry name as representing the caliber he is confident he is capable of attaining.

Remaining Loyal

However, Janecke was clear he would maintain his partnership with Tyla: “That’s my girl forever … She remains dedicated about making songs and really transforming the conversation of the world.”

While Janecke voiced disappointment that his home country did not have the professional and efficient industry standards of the United States, he affirmed he was true to his origins fundamentally. “My vision created a routine performed by the entire globe … thus, to my mind, my aspiration is a vision born on this continent.”