By weekday, Aaron Tan Jian Yong works in financial wealth management. But under stage lights and pounding beats, the 32-year-old Singaporean transforms into a commanding street dancer, and now, the newly crowned Red Bull Dance Your Style Southeast Asia Regional Champion.

On 25th April , Aaron made history as the competition’s first-ever regional winner, capping off a journey defined by instinct, resilience, and a willingness to simply trust his own style. “I still can’t believe it myself, to be honest. From last year to this year, it’s not something I imagined I would win,” exclaimed Aaron. “But for this year, I just said, ‘screw it, I’ll just do my own thing and hope for the best’, and it worked out.”

His victory followed an intense run through the brackets, having already clinched the Singapore qualifiers just a week earlier. The regional stage brought together more than 200 dancers from across Southeast Asia, narrowed down to a Top 16 who battled it out in front of a full house.

About 1,000 spectators filled *SCAPE The Ground Theatre, taking on the role of judges, casting their votes in real time using red and blue light-up wristbands as dancers freestyled to an unpredictable mix of mainstream tracks, from funk to rock.

One of Aaron’s defining moments came during a rock round, far outside the comfort zone of many street dancers. “The most challenging moment was the rock song played against Funkstyle K.S., because it’s not something you usually dance to,” said Aaron. “I just had to channel my inner rock spirit and go all out.”

The final showdown delivered both drama and heart. Aaron faced 22-year-old Mikey B from Hanoi, Vietnam, in a battle that pushed physical limits. Mid-performance, Mikey B was struck by severe cramping but chose to push through, earning roaring support from the crowd.

“I have so much respect for Mikey B,” said Aaron. “Even though he was injured and cramping up, he still did his best. At the end of the day, this is a sport, and it’s not easy to continue dancing under that pressure. Even though we don’t speak the same language, I felt that mutual respect on the floor.”

Beyond the stage, Aaron’s story reflects a modern balancing act, where corporate ambition meets creative passion. With 16 years of dance experience, he has shaped a lifestyle that allows both to coexist. “I love to dance so my career in wealth management actually gives me the flexibility I need,” noted Aaron. “Since I’m self-employed, I can schedule appointments around my dance commitments and workshops, which is a huge advantage compared to a normal nine-to-five.”

Next stop: Zurich. This October, Aaron will represent Singapore at the Red Bull Dance Your Style World Finals, competing against top dancers from more than 55 countries. “It’s not every day you represent Singapore on a global scale,” said Aaron. “I want to show the world that we have a dance scene here and we are not to be messed with. I’m going to Switzerland to be the best version of myself, because no one can be better at doing ‘me’ but me.”

Photo Credit: Jon Ho / Red Bull Content Pool

The Red Bull Dance Your Style Singapore Qualifiers took place on 18th April at the SMU T-Junction. To follow Aaron’s journey to the World Finals on 24th October 24, 2026 and for more information, please visit the official Red Bull website, its social media pages (TikTok | Instagram | Facebook).