Young model sets sights on Hollywood
Willie was scouted by these American industry professionals to compete at the IMTA Convention in New York in July.
A 14-year-old Grade Eight learner from Hoërskool Die Anker has qualified to represent South Africa at an international talent competition in the United States of America.
Springs resident Willie Smuts showcased his talent at the Gauteng auditions for the International Arts and Talent Showcase (IATS 2019), and after getting a callback, went on to audition at Silverstar Casino at the IATS national auditions.
He auditioned in front of Joey Hunter, director of International Model And Talent Agency (IMTA) and former director of Ford Models in America, Nate Butler, casting producer for The Steve Harvey Show, Blaze Johnson, The Voice, Rayvann Drummer from Tyler Perry Studios and Joey Zangardi-Dixon from the New York Film Academy.
Willie was scouted by these American industry professionals to compete at the IMTA Convention in New York in July.
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, however, the event was cancelled, but Willie received a second invitation to attend the IMTA Convention in Hollywood in January 2021.
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The IMTA offers an international panel of agents, record labels, casting directors, managers and producers from Hollywood, Miami, New York City, Atlanta, as well as Europe and Asia, and showcases only the best performers and models from around the world.
The IMTA has produced big stars such as Ashton Kutcher (That ’70s Show, The Ranch), Jessica Biel (Blade 3, Stealth), Katie Holmes (First Daughter, Batman Begins), Josh Duhamel (Safe Haven, Life As We Know It), and Eva Longoria (Desperate Housewives).
Willie is currently a model at Younique Model Academy in Boksburg, where he was crowned the Overall Male Model of 2019.
His coach is Cecilia Marie van Eeden, who will be joining Willie on his journey overseas, with the intention of bringing the incredible international knowledge and experience back to South Africa and sharing it with the Younique family.
The main focus for Willie will be to get as many callbacks from the numerous casting directors, producers and modelling agencies present at the convention.
Willie will attend workshops during the convention and strive to bring this knowledge back to empower not only himself, but also his fellow models, actors, dancers and singers.
The international exposure will also ensure Willie a higher chance of casting opportunities in South Africa.
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