Where are you from and what languages do you speak?

I am originally from Cape Town, South-Africa and speak English, Dutch, Afrikaans (sounds a lot like Dutch) and yes… since I live in Friesland I also understand Frisian.

Are there competitions like the Championships of Performing Arts Holland in South Africa?

Yes, we have the South-African Championships of Performing Arts in South-Africa founded by Prof. Ellen Roux.

Have you been involved in competitions and the performing arts prior to starting as the National Director of the World Championships of performing Arts?

Yes, I have been a contestant and gold medalist winner already at age 13 at the South-African Championships of Performing Arts and know the benefits that this competition had on me as a performer and the competition contributed tremendously on my confidence and performing abilities. Entering into competitions already from a young age buildt my confidence and I made networks and friends that I still have today.

Why is competitions such as the World Championships of Performing Arts an important part of a performers development?

It provides performers from a  young age with exposure and experience both important aspects of boosting your act and confidence. We want to provide the safe atmosphere where performers are encouraged and motivated and do not partake in critizing feedback of any kind.

Who has been a big influence in your decisions in the performing arts?

My First Music teacher, Andrew Strauss and the director of the Championships of Performing Arts South-Africa, Prof. Ellen Roux

.

Andrew Strauss sadly passed away in 2005 but have left a legacy that will never be forgotton. He taught me that above all, ENTERTAIN! There are much more to being a performer than to just know the vocal techniques… and of course the benefits of glitter and false lashes! He will always be remembered.

Prof. Ellen Roux for her absolute preserverence in developing the Performing Arts industry of South-Africa and for growing the South-African championships into the big event it is today. Her passion and commitment is a big inspiration and all the help and advice she gave me is tremendously appreciated. I love her to bits!

What advice would you give someone who wants to enter the World Championships of Performing Arts?

Do you best and use the platform to improve your act and technique every year. Do not get demotivated if you do not get the results you were hoping for because most artists takes years getting to where they want to be. Most of all enjoy it and make new friends who can support and inspire you. Start from a young age building up your repertoire and using stage make-up and stage clothing appropriate for your age and genre.

Desribe yourself in three quotes:

“If youre dreams don’t scare you they are not big enough”

“The only way to fail is to give up”

“Be friendly be kind,be fearless and above all, be yourself”

What is your favourite “feel good” song at the moment?

Circus – Britney Spears

Describe your perfect holiday:

Writing country songs in Nashville, Texas or relaxing in the sun on one of South-Africa's beautiful beaches! :-)