By Hilja Shikongo

In a modest yet vibrant studio tucked away in Windhoek, a growing community of daring women gather to redefine what it means to be fit and fearless.  This is ‘The Hot Project’, Namibia’s pioneer pole and aerial fitness studio, a space where strength meets artistry.

Founded more than a decade ago by Laurisha Lowings, The Hot Project began as a lonely battle against societal misconceptions. “This was the only pole dancing studio in Namibia. I did years of training in South Africa and was guided by my mentor and world pole dancing champion, Tracy Simmonds from the UK. It was a struggle, because I really had to fight the stereotype,” said Lowings.

For many in Namibia and across the world, pole dancing is still primarily associated with erotic entertainment. Yet to those who practice it, pole fitness is an intense and demanding discipline. She maintained: “The support from friends and family has grown abundantly. We now have annual pole and aerial student showcases which receive a lot of support. We get hired for corporate events. Unfortunately, Namibian companies are still not willing to sponsor our very talented pole and aerial dancers.”

According to, Maren, one of the students: “People do not realise how much effort and body strength goes into performing on pole or an aerial apparatus. There are even world championships for both. What draws people to this art form is not just the physical benefits, but the personal transformation it sparks. 

For some, the experience of aerial dancing has gone beyond physical transformation to emotional healing. 
“On the ground, I am a very clumsy person, often feeling like my body does not listen to what I need it to do. In the air, I am able to move with grace and control,” Maren shared.

Despite this progress, stereotypes persist and Maren admits: “It is usually considered an erotic activity rather than a sport. Many people probably think that this hobby is only for women, but worldwide there are also many men that perform on the pole, hoop or silks.”

While the stereotype may remain, there is however, a growing recognition that pole dancers whether in fitness or entertainment settings, possess immense strength. 

As Maren reflects: “We are lucky enough to have something they do not. An environment in which we can safely pursue and perform our hobby without people leering at us, having inappropriate thoughts about us and feeling entitled to more from us. Strippers have my respect for doing many of the things we do, needing the same strength we do and then also dealing with that negative side of it.”

Fortunately, mindsets in Namibia are shifting.  According to Maren, more corporate events are recognising aerial arts as high-quality entertainment.  Another student, who goes by the stage name ‘Red Danger’, shared that she was inspired to start pole dancing out of inquisitiveness.  

“My inspiration to start pole dancing came from a blend of curiosity, challenging my body and the desire to explore creativity in a unique way. Instead of criticizing my body, I began appreciating it,” Red Danger explained.

Another student echoed these sentiments, saying, “Pole has transformed the way I see my body. Every new move proves how strong and capable I am. Whether I nail a trick or need a few more attempts, it’s empowering to know I can push through challenges and improve with time.”