Moyahabo Mabeba
Limpopo-born Dancesport guru Molatelo Mahapa is destined for international stardom.
Her recent election to the World Dance Sport Presidium as the first ever chairperson of the Equality Commission and her rapid rise to international stardom is the stuff of sporting legend.
“Lati”, as she is affectionately known, is the perfect advocate for dancesport at international level ahead of the 2024 Olympic Games.
She was born at Solomondale outside Polokwane and is the first deputy chairperson of the Capricorn Sports Confederation.
Over the years, dance sport has kept its legion of followers on their toes, encompassing Latin, Ballroom, Cha Cha Cha, Hip hop and freestyle with elements of athleticism.
Lati said she will be flying the South African flag high with a mandate to promote women’s empowerment.
“I was excited when I was roped into this portfolio. My main duty will be to provide guidance through policy to map a way forward for the presidency. I am going to ensure that women are empowered and ensure that they are not discriminated against,” she said.
Craig Bullock, the Development Director at DanceSport South Africa, said: “Lati is shrewd coming from a legal background and understands transformation and policy issues.
“She has been around the block from grassroots level in Limpopo right up to national and we have no doubt that she will represent us well at international level.”
From a young age, Lati has shown glimpses of brilliance as a dancer and has even trained dancesport coaches.
The highlight of her career was when she represented South Africa in Italy at the World Championships in 2008.
Returning from the Land of the Azzurri, Lati was ranked number 14 after competing against 48 couples from different countries including Italy, Russia, Germany, and Israel.
A true disciple of dancesport, she is also the Director of International Affairs, responsible for all international affairs of the federation. This role involves monitoring and grading dance athletes’ internal rankings.
