Being talented doesn’t only mean that you have some natural aptitude or skill. It requires hard work to develop those skills; sometimes against all odds.
Many West Rand youngsters, like 14-year-old singer, actress, model and dancer Gabrielle De Gama from Weltevreden Park who recently bagged a lead role in the new M-Net series Reyka, have mastered their craft under the guidance of talent agencies.
Director of 33 and Me Talent Agency, Elsubie Verlinden, eats, sleeps, and breathes entertainment.
She has spent most of her adult life assisting and inspiring young singers, dancers, actors and models to achieve their dreams.
Elsubie started modelling when she was just 12. When she was told that she was too short to become a runway model, she went on to build a sustainable acting career.
Her credentials span some of SA’s biggest film and television productions, including Mr Bones 2 alongside Leon Schuster, Binnelanders, Egoli, Scandal, two Hallmark series features called Wild at Heart, and so much more.
Despite her success, Elsubie soon realised that her true passion was to help others realise their dreams, and to help them achieve their full potential.
Her agency has booked over 1 500 TV commercials locally and internationally, followed by booking brands for Louis Vuitton, Hugo Boss, Dolce & Gabanna, and more.
Elsubie shared some of her tips on how to build a sustainable career in the entertainment industry:
• Research – Always research the institution or company and find out exactly what they are looking for.
• Preparation – Always invest time in your craft daily; always grow your skills and expertise.
• Kindness – Be someone of character who always treats everyone with kindness. The industry is small; never treat people based on their titles, and treat each person with equal value and kindness.
• Consistency and awareness – Never let your guard down. Know that there is always someone watching, and be professional and on point at all times.
• Your brand is your business – Establish who you are and what you stand for. Always arrive knowing ‘Your Brand Is Your Business’, and dress it well.
• Obtain skills through training – It is necessary to research your craft, do training and empower yourself as much as you can. If you are privileged enough to obtain a degree you will have a competitive advantage.
• Confidence has no competition – Never compare yourself to others. We are all uniquely created to fulfil our purpose.
• Surround yourself with people who motivate you and drive you – Have a fair balance between those you uplift in life, and those who uplift you.
• Your talent is a gift – A gift is given to someone and that gift must be shared; know why you do what you do and always lead by example.
Let your gift leave a legacy everywhere you go, strive wholeheartedly to be fashionable, always dress up, show up and know that your personality, posture and presence are what people feel and see first.
• Know what you stand for and you won’t fall for everything the industry has to offer – Have a strong faith and belief system, and know that you are gifted to bless others.
Ego and fame are short-lived; but character, faith and drive can take you far. Be bold, brave and fearless.
No risk, no reward; don’t let anyone’s opinion determine your destiny; work hard and dream big; and you will become unstoppable!
