Meet our Adjudicators of the 2025 Edition

Annie has been in the dance industry for over 30 years. Originally from Estonia where she was a youth competitor, Annie continued her training in England before coming to Canada 12 years ago. Previously an Associate member of the United Kingdom Alliance (U.K.A) and now a Fellow member, an Adjudicator and an Examiner and a board member for the Canadian Dancesport Federation. Her dance journey expanded to teaching, competing, performing, choreographing for various projects, judging and examining. Aside from the Ballroom & Latin industry, Annie is also a professional Hustle teacher and competitor with many Canadian and International titles. 

Maria Elent is the owner and director of Shall We Dance Studio in North York, which she’s led since 2004. A Canadian National Professional Smooth Dance Champion, Maria is a passionate dancer, teacher, and choreographer with a wealth of experience.

Starting at age six, Maria performed across Europe before earning a Master’s in Fine Arts from St. Petersburg State University. She has taught in Russia, Europe, and North America, specializing in International and American Ballroom and Latin styles.

Maria has competed in prestigious events across Canada and the U.S., earning numerous championships and titles, including:

• Canadian National Professional Smooth Dance Champion
• Certified Member of the Canadian Dance Teachers Association
• Multiple-time finalist and champion in major competitions

Her mission: to inspire future dancers and share the joy of ballroom dance with the world.