Local girl on global stage
Kingsmead College pupil, Jemma Potgieter, has her sights set on international stardom.
Having performed in front of an audience for the first time when she was only 10 years old, Potgieter said she only discovered her singing abilities when she was asked to sing back-up vocals for her three-girl band.
The seventeen-year-old rising star was discovered when she decided to go solo, just her and her guitar, last year.
During one of her solo performances, Potgieter was scouted and chosen to perform at the International Talent Showcase at Monte Casino. And this may have been the start of a blossoming career for the model, singer and actor.
Following her performance, the matric pupil was chosen to perform in the USA at the Applause Rising Talent Showcase in Florida, where she also caught the eye of a few recording labels and scouts from various art institutions.
“I was among more than 300 other performers from America and was rated in the Top 40 performers from the showcase after performing in nine categories,” said Potgieter.
“What was most interesting was getting to attend lectures by professional industries in-between performances. It was really interesting to learn about the industry and to meet people from all over America.”
After the showcase, Potgieter received seven callbacks from American agents, as well as Atlantic Records who have worked with Jason Mraz and Bruno Mars.
“I was also offered an internship in Canada and a scholarship to an acting school in New York,” she said.
“I was surprised to receive all these opportunities and it didn’t really hit me until I got home.”
However, the matriculant has had no time to think what these opportunities may lead to, as she got back into the country a week before writing her prelims.
“I have just been focusing on school for the moment but I know I will continue acting and singing, and after this I am more than certain now that I will study to become a director in the future.”
