BIOGRAPHY
“I stand here today, being loved for everything I was told I would be hated for. I stand here today, still a misfit – but so proud.” – Courtnaé Paul, Forbes Woman Africa 2024
Courtnaé Paul: A legacy of unyielding passion and purpose.
Before Courtnaé Paul became the award-winning, internationally acclaimed B-Girl, choreographer, and DJ we know today, she was a young girl from Durban, South Africa, with dreams of breaking barriers that were imposed on her.
Growing up in Red Hill, her earliest memories are of lively family gatherings filled with impromptu performances by Courtnaé and her sisters — singing and dancing, embedding in her a love for the arts. These vibrant childhood moments sparked a passion that shaped her future and led to extraordinary success. They prepared her for a journey marked by perseverance and resilience.
Besides the arts, Courtnaé excelled in gymnastics, kickboxing, and soccer—fields often dominated by males. This may have been a deterrent for some, but it fueled her desire to reach greater heights. Her determination and unique talent allowed her to challenge norms, carving out a space and creating a new blue print in an industry that overlooked those who didn’t fit the mold.
At 21, Courtnaé moved to Gauteng, determined to cement her name as a leader of dance in South Africa. Her journey was not without challenges, but her unwavering commitment to authenticity and respect for her craft set her apart. Throughout her career, this Jill of all trades has remained steadfast in her mission to make the world a better place. She embodies love and empathy, striving to uplift and create opportunities for her community – all with a massive smile on her face.
Paul’s journey is a testament to the power of staying true to oneself and the impact one can have when driven by passion and purpose, this has led her to become an important voice for sports, art, and culture in Africa.
Courtnaé Paul’s story is one of triumph over adversity, a celebration of individuality, and a powerful reminder that true success comes from embracing who you are and using your talents to uplift others.
DANCE
Award Winning four-time South African Breaking Champion.
Red Bull BC One Ambassador
Ranked as the highest African across male and female categories in the debut Olympic Qualifier Series 2024.
Head judge on 2 seasons of SABC 1’s Break Da Beat.
Choreographed and mentored on “Dance Africa Dance” on DSTV’s ZEE World.
Choreographed on / for platforms such as the GSport Awards, DSTV MVC Awards, Channel O Awards, Netflix SA as well as a welcome for Sir Richard Branson.
Opening act for international artists like Lil Wayne, Pitbull, Fatman Scoop, Rae Sremmurd, Burna Boy, and Omarion.
Collaborated with top South African talents like Kwesta, Moonchild Sanelly, Sho Madjozi, Khuli Chana, and the late AKA.
MUSIC
As the world continues to rotate, so does DJ Courtnaé Paul’s song selection. Her dedication to touring and playing mixes on radio stations are just two of the reasons she bagged her first South African Hip Hop Award nomination for DJ of the Year.
A few notable achievements:
APPEARANCES AND CAMPAIGNS
Beyond her performance lifestyle, Courtnaé’s presence extends to global platforms, with appearances at Tomorrowland Winter alongside Vuse, and noteworthy profiles on CNN, BBC, The Home Channel, and SuperSport.
Courtnaé has taken on the role as speaker and panellist for renowned stages such as Comic Con Africa, Nike Own The Floo, the Forbes Women Africa Summit, as well as being a red carpet host for the GSport Awards 2024.
You can also find her flexing a marketing muscle – or three – in campaigns and collaborations with L’oreal, Shield, Fitbit, and Halls.
CP ENTERTAINMENT (CPE)
With a flair for business, Courtnaé proudly runs CP Entertainment (Pty) Ltd – a high-end entertainment company that specialises in all things performance, creative direction and conceptualisation. She knows all about bringing the wow-factor to every project by offering services to both commercial and corporate industries with clients spanning from top local and international artists, to advertising agencies, corporate year ends and award shows.
CPE’s most recent projects include being an entertainment sponsor at the 2024 Forbes Africa Leading Womens Summit, surprise act at the G-Star RAW X Burna Boy collab launch, and being part of Astron Energy’s nationwide launches.
Other prominent clients under CPE’s belt include Forbes Leading Women Summit, Hennessy, Comic’s Choice Awards and Estee Lauder.
See portfolio for more.