WHAT began as a simple New Year’s resolution to learn something new became not only a way of life, but formed the foundation for a dream for dancer Kylie Andrews, 35.

Since challenging herself in 2022,  Andrews took up line dancing and after a year of social dancing, her eyes opened up to a  new world of dance. Now, she splits her professional life between graphic design and teaching dance.

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She explained that line dancing consists of multiple genres, including styles like the Cha Cha, Waltz, West Coast swing, show dance and even street. She started competing only a year later under the World Dance Masters circuit and simultaneously did her line dance instructors exam. She went on to win in her division in solos, showcase duos and open duos, earning three South African titles.

Last year, she joined the United Country Western Dance Council circuit and entered a new division, ProAm, where a professional and amateur dancer pairs up to compete, and only the amateur is judged. She won the solos, ProAm and the grandslam.

This year, she ramped up competing and signed up for Country Dancesport of South Africa and  won with honours in ProAm and earned gold in open duos, both earning South African titles, and a second place in open partners and solos.

“Dancing is such a beautiful way to communicate. From the time I set foot on the dance floor, I feel free. I laugh. I live in the moment and get to be my authentic self. I don’t get nervous competing because it is just another opportunity to do what I love, with the added bonus of beautiful hair, make-up, fabulous outfits and my personal favourite, my dancing boots. When I put them on, I feel like a superhero,” said  Andrews.

She said that her journey into the world of dance has been fast-paced and shows no signs of slowing down. Her favourite style is West Coast Swing, which she says is smooth and offers plenty of creative freedom.

She started a campaign in February called A Womens Empowerment Initiative, where she uses dance to empower like-minded women in a safe environment. She has hosted three events in Durban and one in Johannesburg, and hopes to bring it to her hometown as well.

“My goal is to compete in the World Dance Masters world championship in Blackpool, UK, next year. I plan to enter at least four divisions, giving me an opportunity at four world titles,” said Andrews.

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