Last night Thembisa Mdoda and her professional dancing partner Devon Snell became the second dancing couple voted off Dancing with the Stars SA on M-Net (DStv 101) when their combined score from the judges and viewers was the lowest.
Thembisa Mdoda tells TVwithThinus she's really at peace with leaving, had a great time dancing, love the judges and want them to be her friends, and why Dancing with the Stars SA was like a rough diamond to her.
Is there anything you think you could have done differently?
No. Not at all. [ha ha.] I mean I had an incredible, a beautiful journey. I had amazing support. I think when the time is right it's time to move on and this is my time.
What has the experience been like for you?
It's been a beautiful experience because it's like a rough diamond. It's beautiful, it requires work, it's heavy. All in all its just heart, it's passion, it's been incredible. I had the utmost fun on this production. With the injuries and the fatigue and everything that stood in our way, we overcame everything and we put on an incredible show. I can only be happy.
What did you think of the judges?
I love them. [ha ha.] You know, I actually want them to be my best friends [ha ha]. I love them. They are trained dancers. They are looking at and judging something they have loved all their lives, so they're passionate about it, and they'll be detailed about it, and they'll tell you where to work and what to do. So I love them, they were incredible. And I could see on their faces that they were shocked [that I'm leaving] but I was like "It is okay". I will forever be grateful for their guidance.
What was the hardest for you?
I think the hardest was the time. I was juggling a lot with work and doing this production. A lot of people take a sabbatical and I didn't. So it was a lot just trying to make sure everything fits into the schedule.
What did you not expect about this journey?
I didn't expect to make so many relationships and connections - ones that will be long lasting. I know that even after this competition the family and the contestants we will remain friends which is incredible.
What did you learn about yourself and how do you think you've changed?
I think a lot changed for me, from my body to my mindset to my heart and to my soul. I think personally I've gained a lot of myself, which is something that I always appreciate.
How do you feel about being voted out and did you expect it?
I don't know how to - if I say I'm happy then [ha ha] people are going to go "Hey what do you mean?" I'm really happy! And I'm really at peace. I feel that everything I came to do on this show I did and God is closing this door, and opens another. That is exactly how I feel.
