Perseverance pays off for the third-year Information Technology student Nqobile Hlekwayo, who is on her way to be an ‘acting’ star after being chosen to perform in the United States of America in July 2019.
Hlekwayo managed to obtain the opportunity of a lifetime to audition in front of international scout, Executive Director of the Applause Rising Talent Showcase (ARTS) International, Kimberly Myers, and was successfully chosen and extended an official invitation to perform at this years’ ARTS 2019 Showcase in the United States of America.
When the talented upcoming actress heard the news of her being invited to perform in front of an international audience, she was gobsmacked.
“The Just You Agency and ARTS International visited every province in the country in search of new talent and I was privileged enough to have auditioned in Durban, February 2018. I am overwhelmed and it is unbelievable that a township girl who has always wanted to embrace her talent is finally getting somewhere with it. I’m excited for this opportunity, mostly in where it’s taking me,” she said happily.
She stressed that her dream of being an actress whether in a formal or informal setting, began at the age of nine years, and she has not looked back.
To date, Hlekwayo has managed to secure road show roles but would love to do a bit of film and television and a lot more of theatrical work.
“I have heard so many No’s that it had even became a norm. I still feel like I’m not good enough for every audition I go to, but I have realised and now truly believe that everything and anything that is for me will never pass me. So, failure has come but has never broken me,” she added. She now cannot wait to take the stage this July and perform a monologue, along with her modelling and dancing skills.
Myers for ARTS International said: “The ARTS provides the perfect stage to unite the world’s most elite agencies, casting directors, managers, and producers with aspiring models, actors, singers, and dancers. Take great pride in knowing that you are among the very best! This will offer a once in a lifetime opportunity, and expect that you will work very hard to make this become a reality,” added Myers.
She also added that the ARTS International will bring talents like Hlekwayo face to face with industry professionals throughout the world.
Although Hlekwayo is excited about her newfound opportunity, she is struggling with sponsorship that will get her to the ARTS stage. “I would appreciate any assistance in kind or cash, as this will help me in getting closer to my dreams. Also, I entered a modelling competition and would also appreciate the DUT community supporting me by voting online, as the top 25 will be announced on 25 February,” she said.
To vote, SMS 296 to 35224 to get detailed updates on the competition. On her journey with the ARTS they can follow Hlekwayo on instagram: @Nqobilex_za, Facebook: Nqobile Xulu and Twitter: Nqobile Xulu(@NLelo1),” she added.
Pictured: Nqobile Hlekwayo
Waheeda Peters
