Durban University of Technology (DUT) alumnus Ashish Misra’s life has changed drastically since moving to Los Angeles. For more than a year in Tinsel Town, Misra has met a variety of industry professionals and fulfilled his dream of completing his studies at the prestigious American Musical and Dramatic Arts Academy (AMDA).
The actor, model, entrepreneur, and systems analyst began his journey to Hollywood in October 2024, moving to Los Angeles to study his craft after receiving a full scholarship. His goal is to pursue acting full-time in Hollywood. Misra left South Africa on a 29-hour flight to the heart of the global film industry.
After completing his software development studies at DUT in 2018, Misra joined FNB’s graduate programme in Johannesburg. He credits DUT for providing a structured environment where he gained technical expertise, practical skills, and valuable connections that have supported both his IT career and his creative pursuits.
Misra expressed his joy upon completing his three-year studies in a year and a half, calling the experience intense, disciplined, and full of sacrifices that most people never saw. “There were long nights, moments of doubt, and times where I had to bet on myself completely. I made a promise to myself that if I was going to chase this dream, I was going to chase it with excellence,” he said.
He emphasised that completing his studies quickly was not about speed, but focus. “I knew why I was here. I knew what I was building toward, and that clarity gave me strength. I feel grateful to God and my family. This was not just a qualification; it was transformation,” he added.
Looking ahead, Misra said his career is about rising above challenges. “I am here in Hollywood to compete at the highest level. I am pushing myself into bigger rooms, bigger auditions, and bigger conversations. I am building relationships, sharpening my craft, and positioning myself for global impact. My greatest goal is to become South Africa’s first male Oscar winner,” he explained.
Reflecting on the history of the Academy Awards, Misra sees opportunity and responsibility. He excitedly shared that he was privileged to be selected to present at the pre-Oscar Celebration and Red Carpet Event at the Sofitel Hotel Beverley Hills in Los Angeles on Saturday, 14 March 2026. “This dream is not just personal. It is for every kid back home who thinks Hollywood is too far. It is for every student who feels unseen. I want to show that someone from our soil, from DUT, can stand on that stage and bring that trophy home. I am not just chasing roles. I am chasing legacy,” he said.
Misra also shared how his journey has shaped him. “Moving across the world forces you to grow up fast. You learn resilience. Talent is common, but discipline is rare. Nobody owes you anything; you must earn your space. Being a DUT graduate gave me adaptability and grit. I learned to move in unfamiliar spaces and still perform. At DUT, I learned to think beyond circumstances. That mindset has been everything for me. Life has shaped me into someone who is less concerned with validation and more focused on impact. I am no longer just trying to make it; I am trying to become someone worthy of making it,” he said.
He offered advice to other alumni and students. “Work quietly and relentlessly. You do not have to be the loudest person in the room. You just have to be the most prepared. Do not wait for permission to believe in yourself. Your background is not a disadvantage. It is your power. Your story is your currency. When it feels impossible, choose discipline over emotion. Choose faith over fear,” he said.
Misra expressed gratitude to those who supported his journey. “To my mum and dad, everything I am stands on your sacrifices. You believed in me before I had proof, and every step I take continues your hard work. To my sister, your support means more than you know. To South Africa, this is only the beginning. I carry our flag with pride. The world will hear our stories. The world will see our excellence. The road to that Oscar has begun, and I am walking it with purpose. Remember the name Ashish Misra, South Africa’s first future male Oscar winner.”
Pictured: DUT alumnus Ashish Misra.
Waheeda Peters
