DANCING WITH THE STARS

in step with our environment and community

What do Russian-born Yulia Kharlova and the Penwell Nhlapo, a Springs-local have in common?  Ballroom dancing and Vexiflex.  An unlikely duo indeed, but this partnership of grace, skill and talent, has their eyes set on the World Ballroom championships.

Vexiflex was given the opportunity to support them in the 2011 South African Dance Championship that was hosted in Pinelands, Cape Town.  This competition was crucial to securing them a place in the 2012 World Dance Championship (in which they placed 36th the last time that they competed) and they placed second in their category at the Pinelands competition. (read the full article)

Last year, they danced their way to success with the following results.

1. 1st place Dancer of the year
2. 1st  place Gauteng Championship
3. 1st  place Classique Championship
4. 1st  place SADTA Open Championship
5. 2nd  place SADF Open Championship

Nhlapo started dancing at the age of 9 with the Kwathema Dance School and began to establish his dancing career in 2001.  This was followed with six SA Professional Classic Show Dance Championship titles and trips to Canada, Italy, USA and the Netherlands where he represented his country with his first partner Sonto Rafedile.

Kharlova brings her own acclaim to the partnership having taught some of Russia’s top competitive dance couples and judged many prestigious competitions across the vast country.  She herself has competed with much success and holds the 2009 and 2010 title for SA Latin Pro Champion with her previous partner, Ryno van den Berg.

We are proud to have supported this couple that represents such determination, dedication and excellence to their art - and will be putting their best feet forward for South Africa!  We believe that opportunities like this are rare and wish them all the best for their journey ahead!