WATCH: Local businesswoman realises dancing dream
WILROPARK – Roodepoort businesswoman finally opens dance studio.
For some, one successful business would be enough. For Ronel Harris, opening her fifth has been a dream come true. On 29 August Harris opened her studio in Wilro Corner Shopping Centre.
Harris spoke enthusiastically about the venture. “I come from quite a poor background and this has always been my dream. I first saw ballroom dancing when I was about 16 and I loved the dresses and the glamour and wanted something like that in my life. I started my first business when I was 22 so the dancing dream got shelved.”
Fast forward a few years later and Fred Astaire Roodepoort is her fifth business venture. Harris explained, “I walked out of my office, looked up and saw this building across the road. I just knew this was the time and the place to pursue my original dream.”
Harris is passionate about the West Rand, owing to the scenery and the general pleasant demeanour of the people. She added, “I love the West Rand. I love living here. All my business is here. I think dancing is something the community needs – it’s art, it’s culture, it’s sport and it’s a way to meet new people.” Giving back is also a priority for the businesswoman. The school also works in conjunction with a local retirement home, where the residents come to dance once a week.
To date the response has been good. Doors opened mid-August for enrolments and residents from surrounding areas have responded positively.
