Aksana Matokazi, a young actress from Brackenfell, will soon represent South Africa in the World Championships of Performing Arts in Los Angeles.
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She will compete in the comedy, drama and singing categories, showcasing a diverse talent, says Yolandé Rabé, principal at The Stage Performing Arts Studio in Durbanville, where the 17-year-old Matokazi has been honing her skills for the past seven years.
News24 reports that it was her win as the senior overall grand champion at the South African championship held in the North West Province last October that gave her the opportunity to go to Los Angeles on an all-expenses-paid trip.
Matokazi says the competition was challenging as the other performers were both older and younger than her. ‘I am overwhelmed with joy as this will be the first time I ever travel outside of the country, which is an opportunity that I never thought I would ever get in my high school career.’
The Capetonian started acting at the age of nine when her father enrolled her at a part-time film school after noticing her bubbly personality and love for performance. Two years later she joined The Stage. ‘I loved performing on stage from a very young age. I used to be very competitive and always strived to be in the front and centre stage to make sure all the parents could see me. It relieves me from any stress I might have. As soon as I enter my drama class the environment is exciting and I love that I get to work with different types of personalities. Drama gives me the ability to understand and play different characters and freely explore different narratives. I enjoy the new information that I learn, every day I work on myself to improve my abilities. Drama impacts my way of thinking as I am able to apply the knowledge and life skills in my everyday life. The more I perform the more confident I become.’
Matokazi adds that she is working towards winning gold medals for Team South Africa. ‘I do expect that it will be challenging. I am going to enjoy the process, the competition and adventure and give my best. I appreciate the opportunity and I am grateful for all the people that have supported and contributed to my journey.’
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Picture: The Stage Performing Arts Studio
