We discover how ballroom dancing became one incredible couple’s path to joy, wellness and the world stage.
What better way to highlight the power of movement during Mental Health Awareness Month than through dance? Meet Edlena and Mark Leslie-Smith, a professional ballroom duo for whom ballroom dancing isn’t just a hobby. It’s their shared passion, wellness tool, creative outlet and connection point – one they’ve nurtured since the day they got married 26 years ago.
Now the Durban North couple is preparing to represent South Africa at the World Professional Ballroom Championships in Tokyo – a highlight in a career filled with sparkle, stamina and steadfast love. But their story isn’t just about trophies and titles. It’s about resilience, romance and how dancing together has shaped their lives from the inside out. And it all started with a wedding waltz. Literally.
“We had set our wedding date,” says Edlena, “and Mark said he didn’t want to just shuffle about the dance floor.” So, they signed up for social dance classes and worked on a routine with local dance instructor Claudia Moir. That first dance sparked something way bigger than they expected.
Soon after, Claudia entered them into their first competition. “Mark wasn’t keen at all,” laughs Edlena, “but after some persuading, he agreed. We danced in a beginner section – and won!” From there, it was game on. They trained harder, entered more competitions, and slowly immersed themselves in the world of ballroom.
Today, Edlena (57) and Mark (who is 64) have built an extraordinary life through dance – one that includes parenting three talented sons (all musically and culturally gifted), running successful businesses, and dancing competitively across the globe.
Edlena is a beauty therapist and holistic health practitioner. “My work is all about wellness and helping people feel their best. Just like I feel when I’m in a ballgown with my hair and makeup done – it’s about that feel-good factor.”
Mark is an architect in KZN, having designed some of the province’s most luxurious homes. The couple’s flexible work schedules have allowed them to train at a high-performance level while still managing their professional careers.
Earlier this year, Edlena and Mark received the invitation of a lifetime: to represent South Africa at the World Professional Ballroom Championships in Tokyo this month.
“It’s our dream come true,” says Edlena. After competing as amateurs for years, their coach Daryl Bennewith encouraged them to turn professional last year. “We never imagined it would lead here so quickly,” she adds.
Training includes two to three weekly coaching sessions, gym work for fitness and flexibility, and plenty of practice. “It’s tough, but we love it. Ballroom is both a sport and an art form. You have to be physically fit, mentally focused, and emotionally connected – all at once.”
For Edlena and Mark, ballroom dancing is much more than competition – it’s their form of therapy. “It’s my happy place,” Edlena says. “It uplifts me emotionally, connects me spiritually, and keeps me grounded. Even during pregnancy, I danced through my nausea – it was the only time I felt truly well.”
Mark shares the same emotional connection. “Each dance has a mood and a story. The Waltz is dreamy, the Tango is fiery, and the Slow Foxtrot – my favourite – is all about control and flow.” The couple also believe in the visual joy of the sport. “It’s uplifting to dress well, feel confident and present your best self on the dancefloor.”
Their message to others keen on learning to move like they do? Anyone can dance. “Even if you think you have two left feet, the connection you feel from moving in unison with someone else is healing. Start with a few steps – you’ll gain confidence and joy from there.”
Edlena and Mark’s journey has taken them to Belgium, Canada, Spai, and the iconic Wintergardens in Blackpool, UK – where they’ve competed in the British Open Championships five times. They’ve held the title of South African Senior Champions for six years, undefeated.
And their most memorable moments? “Too many to count,” they say. Most embarrassing? “In Canada, Mark tripped during the Viennese Waltz and fell,” recalls Edlena. “But he got up like nothing happened – and we kept going.” That moment led to a lifelong friendship with a Canadian couple who had previously lived in South Africa.
Looking ahead, the couple also plans to attend the 100th British Open Championships in Blackpool in 2026. “It’s a major goal for us,” says Edlena.
They’re also passionate about building the local dance scene in Durban. Through DanceWorld at Northlands Bowling Club, they coach competitive dancers and social enthusiasts alike. “The ballroom community here is alive and growing,” says Edlena. They also enjoy Argentine Tango, and Edlena recently ventured into Country Western dance, winning a European title in Belfast this year with Kevin Ellis, a world champion line dancer.
Their dream? To get more people dancing – and especially, more men. “Most women want to dance,” says Edlena, “and it’s such a fun, glamorous way to de-stress and stay active.”
Edlena and Mark have always funded their international trips themselves – even down to their SA tracksuits. But, as they prepare for Tokyo, they are hoping for a little sponsorship support that will go a long way towards their travel and accommodation expenses.
Details: If you’d like to support, collaborate, or learn to dance, get in touch with Edlena on email: edlena@gns.co.za or you can follow the couple’s adventures on IG: @edlenalesliesmith
The benefits of ballroom dancing
Moving to music is more than just fun – it’s healing, too.
Boosts mood naturally Dancing releases endorphins and dopamine – your brain’s natural happy chemicals – reducing anxiety and elevating mood.
Reduces stress and tension Focusing on steps and movement pulls your mind away from stress and lowers cortisol levels, promoting calm.
Improves cognitive function Learning choreography keeps your brain sharp,
enhancing memory, coordination and concentration.
Strengthens social connection Ballroom dancing is about partnership,
communication and community – key ingredients for emotional resilience.
Promotes mindfulness and presence Dancing requires being present – tuning into your body, your partner and the music. It’s moving meditation.
