Mover And Shaker | Lani Nel
For The Love Of Dance…
From a young age Lani knew that she wanted to live in a small town, close to the sea. Hermanus was her first choice and in 2008 she made her home here.
Lani danced her way through life and into becoming the owner and instructor of Hermanus Social Ballroom and Latin Dance School.
See what this local lady had to say to us!
What made you decide to become a dance instructor?
I have danced since the age of 5 and been teaching for over 15 years. It sort of just happened, but I am passionate about dancing and I love showing others why I am passionate about it!
What is your favourite kind of dance style?
All sorts of dancing with modern ballet having a special place in my heart, but that is what is great about ballroom and Latin – it includes so many styles and is always developing. My favourite ballroom dance is the Waltz, mmm no the Tango, oh wait the Foxtrot is beautiful and the Viennese Waltz, well… hahah – I feel the same about ALL the Latin’s – hehe. It is really difficult to choose!
The best part of my job is…
Experiencing how someone learns to dance and seeing them develop into great social dancers.
Is there any advice you could give somebody who is thinking about learning to dance?
Remember, it’s a physical skill you need to learn and it will not happen overnight, but it is quicker than you think and then you have a skill for life.
What dance style reflects Hermanus?
I have to think about this one as Hermanus is so diverse. I think it must be the Mambo/Salsa – it also offers a lot of diversity!
Dancing makes people happy because…
You release a lot of happy hormones with the exercise and you get to meet lots of great people while having fun.
Dance is the hidden language of the soul ― Martha Graham
Hermanus is…
So diverse! – It offers the best of many worlds!
I love Hermanus in the…
Autumn – it’s my birthday, no just kidding! The weather is mild, the wind not too bad and the sunsets are breathtaking!
My favourite place in the world is…
With my life partner, then we can be anywhere, but Hermanus is one of the best places in the world I think.
My best memories are…
I have many, from all over the world.
I wish I knew then what I do know about…
Being more aware of and appreciating the purpose of everything around you.