Entertainment accolades pour in for young Wandisa
Wandisa Simelane may only be 15 years old, but the accolades for his modelling work are rolling in.
This grade 10 learner from Mashishing High School has won an international modelling contract during the International Modelling and Talent Association (Imta) auditions.
During these auditions at the Silver Star Casino Hotel in September, the world’s top model and talent agents, managers and casting directors set out to find new talent.
Imta is a professional association and one of the most successful modelling and talent training centres in the world. Wandisa will be part of the South African delegation that will fly to New York to attend the Imta Convention from July 10 to 15, 2022.
He was also awarded a scholarship to study in New York at the world-acclaimed American Music Dramatic Academy (Amda) in 2022. At the Amda students have the opportunity to interact with Broadway veterans and the distinguished Amda faculty. In addition to these achievements, Simelane is a finalist for the Mr Teen Mbombela competition.
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The final of the pageant will take place on Wednesday December 1 in Mbombela. He was chosen as a finalist after attending the pageant interviews which were held at the Riverside Mall on July 24. He attended various workshops organised by the Mr and Miss Teen Mbombela organisers.
“As an actor and a model I am compassionate and grab every opportunity that comes my way. I have always dreamed of going to America to walk in one of those fabulous fashion shows showcasing the designs of world-famous designers and to be on a stage performing. I am ready to put in the hard work. I am so grateful for this scholarship,” said Wandisa.
John Nyundu, of Nsizwa Nyundu Foundation, is mentoring Wandisa and said this young man has been improving his interpersonal skills by participating in various community projects. “2021 has been a great year for the youth of Mashishing. The Nsizwa Nyundu Foundation is also supporting Nadia Milazi, a finalist in the Miss Teen Universe pageant,” said Nyundu. Wandisa’s mother, Phindi Mlambo, said she couldn’t be more proud of her son. “The whole family is excited that he is going to New York and it is important that parents should support their children’s dreams, no matter how big or small they are,” said Mlambo.
