Inspiring confidence through dance – a #WomanToWatch story
Inspiration
June 4, 2018By First For Women
At just 7 years old, Corlanie Botha made two discoveries that would determine the course of her life. One, she loved to dance and two, she wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. Since then she has worked to bring both to life. Today, this international award-winning young choreographer has founded a successful dance school, that serves to empower women and girls in disadvantaged communities through the power of dance.
How dancing inspires confidence
By giving underprivileged young women and girls the opportunity to embrace dance, Corlanie has opened so many doors for aspiring dancers. Whether they want to dance for fun or to compete, she provides the platform for them to embrace their talent and love for the art form.
Since starting her dance school, she has taken a number of students to competitions both locally and abroad and has even brought choreographers from the Millennial Dance Complex in Los Angeles in the United States to South Africa to mentor her students.
Whether at an international competition or one of her studios in Eldorado Park, Diepsloot or Tembisa, her students feel completely at ease when it comes to expressing themselves through dance. For Corlanie, it’s not just about providing a warm and encouraging environment but also teaching the most appropriate style of dance.
A fresh and funky approach
Since hip-hop culture permeates the lives of many of her students, she decided it was the ideal style to teach in her studios. The familiarity of the dance style along with the nurturing environment inspire all of Corlanie’s students to let their inner confidence shine through.
Dancing her way to the top
While training some of SA’s best talent, Corlanie has also put her talent to the test, winning two international awards, including Outstanding Coach of the World award at the World Championships of Performing Arts 2016. But it’s not just about competing. Corlanie’s diverse skill set and infinite passion for dance takes her to the sports field and the school stage. When she’s not at her dance school Pulse, you’ll find her doing choreography for the Lions Cheerleaders and assisting with school productions.
Young, funky and full of life, Corlanie is an inspiration to everyone around her and a shining example of the power of our country’s feminine youth.
