Centurion teenager on her way to stardom

A Centurion teenager is not far from realising a big dream after devoting her life since the age of five to becoming a star.

Chanté van Niekerk (16) is one of 12 youngsters who was granted a scholarship at the New York Film Academy.

She is also and one of only two South Africans who was offered a management contract after numerous auditions in New York this year.

Van Niekerk’s journey started last year when she entered the Summer Heat competition for singing, dancing, modelling and acting.

There, representatives from the International Talent Showcase (ITS) scouted fresh talent to take to the mainstream auditions overseas.

“We had to attend two boot camps where we received training in all the areas we signed up for.”

Van Niekerk said the work was tough, but in the end it helped her give the best performances of her life during her New York auditions earlier this year.

Van Niekerk said it was exciting to arrive in the Big Apple with her mother Hantie Pretorius to hear they were staying at The Hiltons on Time Square.

Van Niekerk was soos attending classes and training with about 400 other youngsters seeking to develop

their talents.

“Arriving there, it was more hard work. We had to attend classes for singing, dancing, acting and modelling and sometimes they all happened at once,” she said.

“My mother had to attend some of the classes and take notes for me while I attended the other classes.”

Her mother said there were difficulties at every turn.

“My daughter had to model in undergarments in front of well-known representatives from all over the world because her dress got lost at the cargo section at the JFK International Airport.”

She said despite this, people had been good to them and praised her daughter for her hard work and commitment.

Van Niekerk received the highest call back from agents at the International Talent Showcase, consisting of 12 agents that wanted her talents.

“My life has changed for the better. I know I still need to work very hard to build my name in the industry, but at least an agent is willing to give me a chance.”

Pretorius said: “I believe my child will go places because of her positive attitude towards life. I am just very grateful for a humble child. She is very kind and polite to people and it warms my heart when they compliment my child on her good manners.”

Van Niekerk said despite the new turn she would continue to seek to excel academically as she felt it was important for her to be educated.

“As a child I dreamed of becoming a movie star to help people. Today I still feel the same way.”