Impossible does not exist in Kelvin Conway te Baerts’ vocabulary. The 29-year-old model, actor and entertainer merely translates the word to ‘Im possible’.
“For every ‘no’ you get, believe there is a bigger ‘yes’ out there. Rock up, show up and do your best,” is Te Baerts’ advice to aspiring models and actors.
Te Baerts recently moved to Bronkhorstsbaai, from where he regularly travels for work.
“I love coming home to the serenity of this place – a relaxed atmosphere where I can collect my thoughts away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but in reach thereof for work purposes,” he explained.
Being raised in Klerksdorp, Te Baerts is familiar with the lifestyle of a small town.
“Growing up, I was always fascinated by the stories on TV and in movies. They transported me to different worlds, and I dreamt of being a part of those stories.”
It’s fair to say that destiny wasn’t the only thing that helped Te Baerts rise to the top. With motivation, hard work and consistency, the rising star had all the ingredients needed for success.
“My journey has been a tapestry woven with determination, passion and a relentless pursuit.”
His parents greatly supported his creative pursuits and enrolled him in drama classes. Aside from acting, Te Baerts developed a love for singing, dancing and sports. He joined the school choir, took dance classes and played on various sports teams.
“These experiences ignited a fire in me, one that would drive me towards a career in the entertainment industry,” he explains.
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It wasn’t just this burning passion that propelled him forward because these activities helped shape his versatility and discipline. Plus, his small-town background helped foster his mental well-being – a gift not many are afforded in this fast-paced world.
After school, the hopeful performer moved to Johannesburg, where he did a photoshoot for a local agency, and it was here that his life and career as a model started to manifest.
“The beginning was tough, the competition was fierce, and the rejection was plentiful. But each ‘no’ only fuelled my determination to keep going.”
The star’s big break came when he landed a commercial modelling job for KFC, followed by a guest appearance on Klankbank.
“It was a surreal experience seeing my face associated with such a big brand,” he says. “The opportunity opened doors I never imagined.”
He featured in Grammy Award-winning artist Tyla’s music video, a major stepping stone in the right direction.
World Fashion Week Dubai at The Versace Hotel was next on the agenda, where he walked the runway in front of an international audience.
“The high fashion scene was challenging yet rewarding,” he explains. “I worked with renowned designers, learning the intricacies of the fashion world and honing my craft.”
Although Te Baerts was making strides in the modelling world, he still strongly desired acting. Once again, fate stepped in. The entertainer went on to star in numerous TV ads and landed a role in How to Ruin Love.
“My role is small at the start, but it eventually pans out,” he explained.
He added, “I have had amazing coaches from acting to singing to dance to modelling, and I am grateful for every opportunity that has come my way.”
Alongside his acting and modelling pursuits, Te Baerts continues to develop his skills in singing and dance, adding dimension and versatility to his resume. He recently walked the largest fashion runway in the country, Opulent Models South Africa. However, he believes success is more than a list of accolades.
“From the moment you walk into a room, how you present yourself. Your energy and kindness play a massive role in being noticed. Being remembered for who you are and how your presence makes people feel, I believe, is priceless.”
Te Bearts encourages aspiring performers to follow their dreams.
“Have a clear goal in mind and use every day to work towards your dream. Work on yourself and your mental health and develop your skills, and you will soon reach a point where your dream becomes your career.”
Te Baerts has a heart for charity and invites organisations to contact him if they have charity drives.
Conway te Baerts. Photo: Kevin Mark Pass
