Talented youngster set to fligh flag high for SA in New York
Hudson Park High School pupil Ashli Lockem is set to represent SA at the International Model and Talent Agency Convention in New York in 2020.
The grade 9 singer and model was chosen at the International ARTS Talent Showcase (IATS) in Johannesburg at the end of September.
“It was nerve-wreacking and overwhelming as there was so much talent there and 33 and Me model talent agency director Elsubie Verlinden told me to just be myself. It was a ‘wow’ moment for me to be chosen,” Lockem said.
At the first round in East London in June, where she Lockem also entered in the modelling division.
“I am yet to find a local modelling agency to work with, but so far I have had the opportunity to work with a fashion week model.”
She will attend a bootcamp in January and April in Johannesburg to prepare for the convention, which will include singing, modelling, acting and dancing.
The convention offers substantial exposure to an international selection of agents, record labels, casting directors, managers and producers from the US where Lockem may have an opportunity for callbacks for a scholarship or a working contract.
To help pay for her journey, older sister, Carla, Lockem said the family has started to cut back on expenses.
“We will will be doing a serious series of fundraisers, such as this weekend where we will sell boerewors rolls at Spargs in Beacon Bay. I am also in the process of organising a steak evening in the near future,” that will take place soon,” Carla said.
Lockem has been singing in the school choir since grade 2, and is still involved in their performances. The convention will start on July 19 2020.
For more information or to assist Ashli Lockem to reach her dream, contact Carla Lockem on 079-649-9863.