Our Team

Nicci is the founder and owner of Love of Dance Academy. She has been dancing since the age of 6 and started teaching in 2009. Her passion lies in creating a safe and nurturing environment where students can discover their love for dance. She has completed her SABOD exams and holds a teaching qualification in both Modern and Hip Hop dance. Nicci believes in creating a positive and encouraging atmosphere where dancers can grow and develop their skills. She specializes in technique and performance and has a natural ability to connect with students of all ages. Read more about her story below.

Shakira has been dancing since the age of 6 and started teaching in 2020. She has been a dancer at Love of Dance Academy since we opened our doors in 2014. She has completed most of her SABOD exams and is currently studying towards her teaching qualifications. Her passion for dance and dedication to the dancers makes her an invaluable member of our team. She is known for her patience and ability to inspire dancers to reach their full potential. Her kindness and positive attitude create a welcoming environment where dancers can learn and grow.

Melissa has been dancing her entire life. She specializes in Contemporary and Jazz and has a passion for choreography. She competed overseas seven times and won numerous gold medals and trophies. Her creative approach to dance and ability to inspire dancers has made her a favorite among our intermediate and advanced dancers. She has completed numerous dance examinations including her Advance 2 Cechetti Ballet exam. She is currently busy with her DanceCor teacher Associates with above 90% in all prior examinations.

Khanyi joined LODA with a wealth of experience in ballet. She has trained extensively in classical ballet through Cecchetti and RAD and holds several qualifications in dance education including her Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies obtained through RAD (Royal Academy of Dance). Her technical expertise and patient teaching style help students build strong foundations in dance. Aside from dancing, she also obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychological Counselling and is currently working on her Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Psychological Counselling through the University of South Africa. She is hoping to incorporate dance therapy into her practice in the future.

Irene specializes in working with wedding couples. She started teaching at Love of Dance Academy in 2021. With extensive teaching and performing experience (Latin trained for 11 years), she brings energy and enthusiasm to every class. She has trained nationally and internationally. She is also the SADTA Latin American Adult Champ for 2018 and 2019. Irene was a finalist in all competitions that she took part in for 9 consecutive years. Her classes focus on building confidence, banishing fears and creating a fun and memorable experience for couples.

Kim has more than 10 years worth of experience in competitive Latin and Ballroom dancing. This includes experience in various styles such as Freestyle, Slowdance, Ballroom, Latin, Rock n Roll, Hustle and more. She has trained nationally and internationally and is the two time South African Freestyle and Slowdance champion. She qualified to represent South Africa internationally and is SADTA qualified. Kim has a passion for teaching and has been teaching at Love of Dance Academy since 2022. She is down to earth and easy to connect with. Her classes are stress-free and energetic and she is known for her ability to make dancers feel comfortable and confident on the dance floor.