Stand-out results from Amanzimtoti model
This was his second time representing KZN at nationals for modelling.
Amanzimtoti model Jan Strydom returned from Talent Africa nationals with an armful of medals while representing team KZN.
Jan won the senior male face of Talent Africa, six gold, a silver and three bronze medals for modelling, and bronze medals for drama and dancing.
He was also chosen to join the the SA team in New York and received his Federation of Performing Arts SA colours for the second consecutive year.
“It felt great to win the senior male face of Talent Africa. I was shocked and surprised at the same time. I did not think I would win, as the competition was so stiff this year and the senior contestants were super talented.”
READ MORE ABOUT JAN: Model turns heads on Talent Africa catwalk
He won medals for the following categories in modelling: Gold for formal, casual, swimwear, runway, photo head-shot and photo catalogue; silver for photo commercial; and bronze for modelling fitness.
He received bronze medals for drama open and dancing open. “I think I could have done better, but it was my first try doing these two sections this year,” said Jan.
“I have focused more on modelling and dancing this year. I have enrolled at the Rhythmic Arts Academy for dancing and took some dance classes in hip hop with Minette Landman.”
This was his second time representing KZN at nationals for modelling.
He was selected to the SA team last year, but unfortunately did not have the funds to go to New York.
“I was overwhelmed at being selected again, but unfortunately I still can’t afford to go to New York. I hope to qualify again next year and then maybe I might go.”
To train for such a competition Jan goes online to see the latest modelling and dancing trends, and puts in a lot of work at dance classes.
“I do feel that all my hard work has paid off, but I am going to try and improve on my dancing and acting skills.”
Jan feels there are local opportunities for him to capitalise on his results and find work locally.
“There are still a few commercial companies that do shoots around South Africa. The only way to get in is to improve on your skills and show that you are the best you can be.
My main objective this year is to help promote the performing arts in KZN, as I believe the province has a lot to offer.
I would like to see more contestants from our province compete next year. KZN won so many gold medals this year and I was extremely proud of the KZN team.”
Jan thanks Shaun and Melanie Ashcroft of Talent Africa for their involvement in promoting performing arts in South Africa, KZN team leader, Charel Haasbroek and the rest of the KZN team for excelling at nationals.
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