Nthabiseng Masingi, known to her friends and students as NthabiM, is a vibrant street jazz heels dancer and choreographer born and raised in the bustling township of Soweto, Orlando East. Her passion for dance and commitment to empowering women has led her to create ‘HeelUpWithNthabim’, a unique space for women to dance, connect, and feel liberated.
From a young age, Nthabiseng was always the one to start dance circles at family gatherings, astonishing everyone with her fluid movements. Dancing made her feel seen and brought out a confidence that she otherwise lacked due to her shy and reserved nature. As she navigated her teenage years, she continued dancing in secret while studying science, eventually pursuing a qualification at the University of Johannesburg. The academic path, however, left her feeling trapped, and she decided to follow her true passion for dance.
Starting with a simple YouTube channel where she recorded and edited videos on her cellphone, Nthabiseng began to share her talent with the world. She discovered street jazz, a dance style that resonated deeply with her feminine energy, and, finding no local classes available, she decided to create her own. Thus, ‘HeelUpWithNthabim’ was born—a sanctuary for women to feel, connect, and release through dance.
Balancing her corporate job with her dance career is a constant challenge for Nthabiseng. Her work requires extensive client interaction, often leaving her feeling drained. However, dance provides a rejuvenating escape, allowing her to express herself freely and reconnect with her inner self. She describes the corporate environment as tapping into her masculine energy, while dancing brings her back to her feminine core, creating a beautiful duality in her life. “Whenever I am working I feel as though I am in my masculine energy. So focused and grinding but when it comes to dancing, man! It just comes naturally. It is just me and my feelings, and I allow myself to create through music and in those moments I just feel like more of a woman and I am connected to my inner self,” she shares.
Nurturing real connections has always been important to Nthabiseng. Before entering the corporate world, she ran an online business selling clothes but felt isolated and disconnected. She prayed for a job that would allow her to interact with people and was grateful when her prayers were answered. This corporate role not only provides financial stability but also hones her communication skills, making her a more effective dance instructor.
Inspiration for her choreography often comes from the powerful women around her. She believes that embracing one’s femininity is a form of power, especially in a society that often suppresses sensual and feminine expression. She takes pride in seeing her students transform from shy and reserved to
confident and expressive, reflecting their growth in both their dance and personal lives. “What inspires my choreography is honestly women. I believe there is so much power in knowing one’s femininity. Especially in a society that frowns upon a woman who can express themselves in a sensual and feminine way,”.
Her role models include Sne Mbatha, whom she admired from ‘So You Think You Can Dance’, and Aliya Janell. These figures, along with the desire to inspire young black girls who look like her, fuel her dedication to both her corporate career and dance. Nthabiseng dreams of creating a life that inspires others to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they face.
Despite the challenges of balancing her two careers, Nthabiseng remains steadfast in her commitment to both. She emphasizes the importance of time management and self-care, advising others to find a balance that works for them and to make time for activities that recharge their energy.
Looking to the future, Nthabiseng hopes to expand her YouTube channel to reach a wider audience and to offer more diverse classes through ‘HeelUpWithNthabim’. She envisions collaborations with other dancers, such as Uncle Stunna from Zimbabwe and Xola Navy, to bring even more creativity and connection to her students.
Ultimately, Nthabiseng’s journey is one of passion, and an unwavering belief in the power of dance to transform lives. Her story is a testament to the beauty of following one’s dreams and the impact of creating spaces where others can find their own paths to self-expression and empowerment. As she continues to navigate her dual roles, she remains a beacon of inspiration for all who cross her path, encouraging them to embrace their passions and live their truths.