After nearly two decades of competing on local and international stages, seasoned Latin American and Ballroom dancer Tlholohelo Nthejane has opened his own dance studio in Maseru with a vision to nurture young talent and inspire healthier lifestyles.
The new studio, DANCEWELL, based in Happy Villa, offers classes in Latin American and Ballroom dance – disciplines that Nthejane says not only provide physical fitness but also instill rhythm, discipline, and confidence.
He told theReporter this week that he wanted to create a space where people can learn, grow, and enjoy dance but, most importantly, he wanted to empower young people to stay away from destructive habits by offering them a positive, creative outlet.
For Nthejane, dance is not just an art form, but a lifelong passion. His journey spans more than 19 years of competition, training, and teaching. Over the years, he has earned an impressive portfolio of qualifications, including a Sports Administration course certificate, DANCESPORT Training of Trainers certificates, and a Level B WDSF adjudication certificate.
“These experiences didn’t just sharpen my skills as a dancer,” he explained. “They also gave me the ability to guide, inspire, and mentor others. I’ve seen firsthand how dance can transform people’s lives, and that is the energy I want to bring into this studio.”
The turning point, he said, came when he realised that his wealth of experience could be more impactful if shared with a wider community.
“Opening DANCEWELL was a way of giving back, while also creating a lasting legacy,” Nthejane said.
The studio is modest in size, housed in a simple hall in Happy Villa. There are no mirrors lining the walls or high-tech equipment; just an open floor and the energy of its dancers.
Yet, for Nthejane, simplicity is an advantage.
“Affordability was the biggest factor when choosing this location. I wanted a space that could be accessible to as many students as possible without making the fees unaffordable,” he noted.
Instead of investing in flashy décor, Nthejane has focused on cultivating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere.
“Students need to feel comfortable and motivated. Even though the space has limitations, I make sure every class is engaging and enjoyable. At the end of the day, what matters most is the quality of instruction and the love for dance.”
At DANCEWELL, students are introduced to a range of Latin American and Ballroom styles, from the lively cha-cha and samba to the elegant waltz and tango. According to Nthejane, these dance forms are more than entertainment — they build confidence, improve coordination, and encourage self-expression.
“Dance is a powerful tool for personal growth. It’s a way for students to express themselves while staying physically active. My role is to guide them, adjust to their needs, and ensure that learning is both challenging and fun,” he pointed out.
To achieve this, he regularly seeks feedback from students and adapts lessons accordingly.
“Whether it’s raising the difficulty level, revisiting basics, or even introducing new dance styles, I make sure my classes stay relevant and exciting.”
Nthejane describes his teaching philosophy as one rooted in positivity and encouragement. Each session is designed to build confidence step by step, combining clear instruction, constructive feedback, and personal motivation.
“I emphasise three things: technique, musicality, and expression. If you can master those, then you’re not just dancing with your body — you’re dancing with your soul,” Nthejane explained.
Looking ahead, Nthejane hopes to expand DANCEWELL into a major hub for dance in Lesotho. His long-term plans include increasing the number of students, diversifying dance offerings, and fostering a stronger sense of community through events, showcases, and collaborations.
He said he wants DANCEWELL to be more than just a studio but a place where people connect, celebrate culture, and find inspiration. The goal is to create a sustainable institution that keeps growing and continues to influence future generations.
Nthejane’s background in education from the Lesotho College of Education has also given him the skills to structure lessons in a way that blends creativity with pedagogy.
With this foundation, he is confident that he can continue offering high-quality training while supporting the personal development of each student.
For Nthejane, dance has always been more than competition or performance — it has been a lifeline. He believes the same could be true for the youth of Lesotho, many of whom face unemployment, peer pressure, and limited recreational opportunities.
He believes dance can save lives, and gives young people a sense of purpose and keeps them away from negative influences.
“Every time I see a student light up while learning a step, I know I made the right decision to open this studio,” he added.
