After winning the Red Bull Dance Your Style Botswana National Final, Lebo M represented the country for the World Finals in Los Angeles this year. She did not claim the global title, but she returned home with something far richer: experience, growth, and renewed purpose. “It was a huge honour to represent Botswana, myself, my family, and our dance community. What stood out most wasn’t the competition itself; it was everything I learned along the way,” she said. The global finals brought together more than 30 of the best freestyle dancers from around the world. For Lebo M, who has been dancing for over a decade, mainly in choreography, the freestyle battle format was both exciting and intimidating. “I only started battling last year,” she explained. “So being among the world’s best was a learning curve. I had to stop overthinking and trust my instincts, just be myself on stage. In Los Angeles, the energy was relentless, she said.
From workshops to jam sessions, content creation days to media duties, every moment demanded her focus. “You had to stay sharp. It taught me discipline, time management, and the importance of taking care of my body. These dancers treat their craft like athletes. That level of professionalism inspired me,” she stated. Beyond the lights and loud music, Lebo found meaning in connection. “Some activities I did alone, which pushed me to get out of my comfort zone and talk to new people,” she recalled. “I met dancers and creators from Japan, France, South Africa, and the U.S. We shared ideas and culture. It made me realise how powerful collaboration can be,” she said. That exposure, she said, changed her view of dance entirely. “It is not just about performing, it is about storytelling, identity, and unity. Everyone there had their own story, and we all spoke one language: movement,” she added. The experience also gave her clarity about the road ahead. “I came back home feeling more confident,” she said. “This journey reminded me that my dreams are valid. I now know that Botswana dancers belong on global stages. We need to keep believing, training, and pushing boundaries.” Although she did not progress to the final rounds, Lebo M believes the lessons learned outweighed any disappointment. “Winning would have been nice, but growth is the real prize. I grew mentally, emotionally, and creatively. I learned to perform with intention and to embrace who I am as an artist,” she added.
