Talented actress needs help to shine overseas

A CLERMONT rising star owes her fighting spirit and determination to her two children and her dad who raised them single-handedly with unconditional love and support.

Hlengiwe Cele (34) received an invitation to showcase her acting skills and learn more about the industry in the USA after her monologue caught the attention of an international scout, Kim Meyers.

Cele, who joined the Just You Artist agency last year, entered the International ARTS Talent Showcase in April 2017 in Richard’s Bay.

After that successful audition, she received an invitation letter to audition in Krugersdrop where there were international scouts searching for talent in SA.

“That is when I got a call-back to go to the USA in July but the trip will cost me R 75 000.”

The confident outspoken Cele said her fear now is that she won’t be able to raise funds to pursue her childhood dream.

“I have approached the Department of Arts and Culture and the eThekwini Municipality Youth offices and did not get any help as I was told they do not sponsor such programmes.

Cele said she has always loved acting but did not realise that she was good at it, until she received a certificate of leadership in Grade 7.

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“I read a story in the paper and asked my school mates to act it and it was very well received by the teachers and learners.

“I do not easily give up easily, I will push for my acting dream to come true and even at this age, I believe it can still be a reality.

“There are so many talented people in the country and it is depressing that young people end up nowhere because they do not have support or direction,” she said.

The Just You Artist agency is owned by Elsubie Verlinden who Cele said she was very fortunate to know.

“She is a very supportive woman who always pushes us to be the best. In the acting industry you need to be versatile, you must sing, dance and model. I then entered plus size modelling and creative runway as singing is not really my strong point,” she said.

The mother of two said her two children and dad are her source of inspiration.

“My dad has always been there for us, sometimes it was hard for him and us as we cannot hare everything, but he did his best. Even with my children, he loves them and is a great grandfather to them,” said Cele.

Besides acting Cele, who looks up to South African actress, model and producer, Connie Ferguson, also loves playing netball and jogging.

“I love keeping in good form and when I need to unwind, I relax to music, African pop, to be precise.”

Anyone who wishes to assist, can contact Cele on 082 264 5699 or email hlengiwecele729@gmail.com.