The USA is calling for aspiring Fourways actress

Fourways resident and University of Cape Town student, Thato Maitin will be showcasing her talents at the International Models and Talent Agency (IMTA) convention taking place in New York City in July this year.

Maitin, who is studying BA Law, majoring in law and psychology, said she had an emotional reaction upon finding out that she was invited to the convention, and that her dreams were ‘slowly, finally, coming together – and that they were valid’. “I do not think I have ever experienced as much joy and happiness in my life the way I did the evening I received the news,” Maitin explained.

Maitin started singing and acting at ages of 10 and 14 respectively. Years later, her love and passion for modelling came in 2016. Her love for singing came from singing in church. “Nobody really told me I could sing. All I knew was that I loved singing and would always lead praise and worship.”

She remembered the response she received when she auditioned for a talent show hosted at her school in Grade 9 was ‘heart-warming’.

Her acting came from being in a compulsory drama class in Grade 9 and performing a short skit. She received an award for the best drama student in her grade that same year. “When I finished performing, my drama teacher asked if I wanted to be an actress, but I told her it was never part of the plan. She asked because I was really good,” Maitin recalled.

Hearing all the praise she got over the years was a confirmation to her that she not only loved doing this, but that she was good at it, too.

IMTA had their first convention in 1987 and has seen the discoveries of popular actors such as Ashton Kutcher, Jessica Biel and Elijah Wood. The convention is an opportunity for modelling and talent industries to scout for new faces and talent in the entertainment world.

Maitin said she hopes this experience can give her the international knowledge she needs, including what it means to be in the entertainment field. “I want to bring back knowledge to my country and use it to grow and influence our entertainment industry.”

Citing her mom as her inspiration and home of support, Maitin said she could not thank her enough. “Whenever I doubted my talents and my ability, she was always ready with the words of reassurance. When I cried from how overwhelming it all was, she wiped my tears.”

Maitin also hopes going to the convention will bring a scholarship to grow and develop her craft, as well as a chance at furthering her studies at the New York Film Academy.

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