This Singaporean pole dancing champion is winning international trophies with her attitude

In Singapore, more are taking to the pole to express themselves, challenge stereotypes, and build a supportive community where strength and sensuality go hand in hand. Here’s how they are reshaping the narrative.

From starting pole just four years ago – with no formal dance training – to now competing in international pole dance competitions, Azila (also known as Azi) is quickly emerging as one of Singapore’s top pole talents.

The 27-year-old clinched first place in the Hardstyle category at Exotic Generation Mexico this year, despite falling ill just days before the competition. Hardstyle is a high-energy dance style known for its bold, edgy vibe, featuring sharp, dynamic movements and a fierce stage presence.

It’s her second win in less than a year. Azi placed third at Exotic Generation Greece in 2024, in what she describes as a nerve-racking performance. She had to freestyle at the last minute, having fallen ill and unable to complete her planned choreography.

“I didn’t even want to go on stage for the prize ceremony because I was convinced I wouldn’t win – especially since the other competitors were doing tricks I wasn’t,” she says. “So when I came in third, I was genuinely shocked. These experiences made me realise I’m capable of more than I thought, and that I don’t need to doubt myself.”

Back in Singapore, Azi holds a day job as a curriculum developer for a preschool and teaches pole at Mad Collection, an aerial and dance studio in the CBD, during her spare time. It wasn’t too long ago that she was a student herself, having picked up pole dancing during the pandemic.

“I used to play field hockey and floorball, and was in a sports team that didn’t restart as soon as I expected. Everyone was picking up pole dancing, and I thought, why not give it a try? I’ve never looked back since,” she shares.

And she didn’t stop there. Azi also took regular adult gymnastics classes, which she describes as “rough at the start”, as she had to overcome both mental and physical hurdles – progressing from basic handstands to stunts like backflips.

“Adult gymnastics gave me so much more than I thought it would. I achieved a lot of my strength, my backbends, things I never imagined I could do. A lot of it connects back to pole; it helps with my performances and choreography, especially when I try to think outside the box,” she says.

According to Azi, her strength lies in creativity and emotion – crafting choreography that showcases her signature style. Her routines are explosive, filled with flips, sharp turns and dramatic drops – all executed in eight-inch heels. Confidence is the defining force behind her performance.

“It might sound a bit strange, but that ‘I don’t give a damn’ attitude makes all the difference when it comes to adding my personality to my moves,” she explains.

“Basically, acting like I don’t care helps me relax and be myself – people can tell when I’m tense, and this helps me let go of that.”

PHOTOGRAPHY Angela Guo
ART DIRECTION Adeline Eng
COORDINATION Chelsia Tan
HAIR & MAKEUP Benedict Choo, using Cle De Peau Beaute