Video: How hidden talent helped workers in UAE win Dh100,000 in cash and gold in Camp Ka Champ showdown

Dubai: A hidden talent for singing has led to workers in the UAE winning a prize pool of Dh100,000 in cash and gold in the latest Camp Ka Champ (Champ of the Camp) competition.

A technician, spray painter and a welder have become the winners of the top titles of the 18th edition of the contest after a finale on Sunday.

Baljeet Kumar, civil technician with EFS Facilities Management, was crowned as the ‘Singer of the Season’. Meanwhile Pratik Amar Singh, a spray painter, and MD Mubarak Ansari, a welder from Eversendai Engineering, won the ‘Antakshari’ segment. These individuals walked away with grand prizes valued at Dh30,000 for each category, organisers Right Track Advertising said.

The first and second place winners were also awarded in the respective segments. A total prize money of Dh100,000 was awarded and the programme was witnessed by more than 3,000 residents.

“When I was introduced to Camp Ka Champ, I was truly excited to showcase my talent. I am honoured to have received the winner’s award on this remarkable platform,” said Kumar, thanking his company and sponsors of the event.

Singh also thanked the organisers “for creating this amazing platform, especially for the worker community to exhibit their talent”.

Meanwhile, Ansari said “participating in Camp Ka Champ has helped me get rid of my fear and made me more confident of performing on stage”.

Over 65 auditions were conducted across the UAE, including sessions in new locations in Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, and Abu Dhabi. More than 2,000 contestants from 24 companies vied for the titles.

Over the last 18 years, more than 30,000 contestants have participated.

Hatem Sleiman, Regional Vice President of Middle East, Pakistan, and Afghanistan at Western Union, the main sponsor of the contest, said: “This season’s record-breaking participation and outstanding performances highlight the incredible talent and passion within our communities. It’s an honour to continue supporting this journey of connection and celebration.”

Rupa Vinod, Managing Director, Right Track Advertising, said: “We pride ourselves on taking the contest to the doorstep of the worker community, fostering camaraderie, goodwill, and bonding. Season 18 showcased Camp Ka Champ in all its glory, bringing smiles and joy to contestants and audiences alike.”