Two North-West University (NWU) dancers, Tebogo Baas and Matlhogonolo Bodibe, are preparing to compete against the best in the world when they represent South Africa at the 2025 World Dance Championships (WDC) in Assen, Netherlands, in November. This event includes a dance festival, congress, and WDC World Championships, featuring the world's best ballroom and Latin dancers.

They secured their place in the Youth Championship Latin category after consistent podium finishes and a strong showing in qualifiers. “The selection process was quite tough. We had to go through regional and national qualifiers where we competed against some of the best in the country,” says Tebogo. “Our performance at these events earned us a spot on the national team.”

The pair view their selection as an opportunity to demonstrate the standard of South African dance beyond national borders. “Wearing the South African colours is an honour. It’s not just about us, it’s about showing the world the talent that our country holds,” Tebogo adds.

The recognition, they say, was the result of discipline, focus and support from those around them. “We didn’t achieve this on our own. Our teammates, coach and families played a huge role in supporting and motivating us, even when things were difficult,” says Matlhogonolo, a final-year BA Communication student.

For Tebogo, a second-year coaching science student, the achievement is also a personal milestone. “Receiving my national colours has been a dream come true. It’s proof that consistency and hard work pay off,” he says. “I am grateful to my coach, teammates and family for their support, and I want to thank the NWU for helping me attend competitions. This recognition motivates me to push even harder and proudly represent South Africa on the dance floor.”

When asked about which Latin dance they enjoy most, how long have they been dancing together, and what it takes to prepare for an event of this scale, Matlhogonolo says: “We love dancing the cha-cha, rumba and samba because they allow us to express rhythm, passion and connection naturally as a partnership. We started dancing together in February 2024, so this is our second year performing as a duo. Preparing for a competition like the Assen event is intense, it requires daily training to refine technique, stamina and strength, as well as trust, patience and support to manage pressure and stay motivated.”

The duo now turns their attention to Assen, where they aim to make their mark on the global stage from 3 to 9 November.

Tebogo Baas and Matlhogonolo Bodibe are preparing to compete against the best in the world