Local star to shine on international stage

A young and talented stage performer from Newcastle is making international waves, as she will be travelling to the United States in July, to represent South Africa at the International Arts Talent Showcase (IATS). Nqobile Hlekwayo, who hails from Madadeni, is a performing artist who is currently based in Durban.

The Newcastle Advertiser had the chance to interview this rising star before she jets off to the States.

What criteria did you have to meet, to qualify to enter the (IATS) and when is it taking place?

“I do not believe there is ever a set criteria for an artist. We are born to explore and take people on an adventure. This of course includes being authentic and truthful to who you are as an artist, knowing this will always make you shine. I had to first audition for (IATS) where I got a callback to audition for the Director and International Talent Scout for the ARTS, Kimberly D Myers. The Showcase will be presented on stage from the 3rd – 7th of July 2019.”

Did you enter in different categories? What set you apart from the rest of the talent?

“When I first auditioned for IATS, I entered specifically for an acting role but with the amazing help of our ARTS regional Director Elsubie Verlinden and the Just you Model and Management Team, I have grown so much as an artist. For the ARTS Showcase, I will be performing in Acting, Modeling and Commercial Categories.”

How does it feel to be selected to perform in the United States?

“I feel extremely blessed! This is so unreal and hard to believe. I can’t explain what it means to me and how big this opportunity is for me as an aspiring artist. I am truly grateful!”

What are you hoping to experience while you’re there?

“Massive growth. I will probably come back a 100 times better artist than I was when I left.”

You mentioned studying at a tertiary institute. Can you elaborate? Why did you choose this career path?

“I am presently a student at Durban University of Technology and studying for my national diploma in application development, information technology (IT). I know this will sound cliche, but God always puts us in places and situations where he can keep, bless and protect us.”

Are you planning to pursue this talent professionally?

“Most definitely! When a passion is not fed, you will never rest!”

What do you think are your strongest qualities?

“My drive! I don’t know if many would consider this a quality, but I do. I believe hard work can beat non-working talent, and so I am driven by growth and taking charge of every opportunity I can get to grow my craft. I would add being authentic to my own style, my positive mindset and awesome personality.”

How has your childhood shaped the person that you are today?

“I have always been an outspoken person, I was also involved in many modeling competitions and performed at church plays. I was always the main character. I grew up in a family that is supportive and loving.”

What are your future plans, both personally and academically?

“I have never been enrolled in a formal media or arts school. I am planning to get educated to grow and sharpen my craft after completing my diploma this year. Education is important, not only as means of growing your craft, but it also shows appreciation and how serious you are about it.”

What is your life’s motto, should you have one?

“To dream is human, but to pursue your dream is extraordinary.”

Who inspires you?

“Nationally, two amazing talents. Natasha Thahane and Thuso Mbedu. These two young, beautiful, talented and hard working individuals inspire me the most. I have grown so much from the projects they’ve worked on and mostly I am inspired by the way they appreciate and take their work as storytellers so seriously. They are truly inspiring people.”

Who has been your number one fan and support system?

“My family being the first, and my friends. I must say I have the most amazing people in my life, the support and love they show me is extraordinarily beautiful.”

What would be your message to aspiring young black women?

“You are closer than you were yesterday, you are enough, you are capable and you will get it in due time. Don’t give up on what makes you happy, although many times we feel as though we’re incapable. We simply need to stop comparing ourselves with others and start embracing ourselves. I would like for them to know, what is yours will never pass you and what passes you was never yours! Keep the fight on!”

What would winning the competition mean to you?

“My regional director and Kim Myers always say, the ARTS is not a competition but rather a platform to showcase your talent. The opportunity on its own is heart-fulfilling, being able to perform in front of agents, casting directors, managers and producers from Hollywood, Miami, New York City, Atlanta and as far as Europe and Asia. To get there and be recognised. I cannot imagine, nor explain, what it would mean to me.”

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