Malaikha secures position in New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts
“I have always loved performing and being offered this opportunity means the world to me.”
Kensington’s 17-year-old Malaikha Hira is pursuing her dream of being a performer and she’s close to making her dream come true.
Malaikha has been offered a position at the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts (NYCDA) after attending the International Presentation of Performers (IPOP).
“I’m excited that I have received an invitation to NYCDA. It’s a dream come true. I have always loved performing and being offered this opportunity means the world to me.
“IPOP is an intense event and everyone hopes to get spotted. As a performer it’s an opportunity to accelerate your career in the entertainment industry. What an artist may achieve over five years can be accomplished in one week at IPOP,” said Malaikha.
IPOP is a five-day talent convention hosted in Hollywood biannually.
This is a platform for selected models, actors, singers and dancers from across South Africa to take their talent international and build an international career in the arts.
During the convention, artists attend celebrity workshops and these industry professionals really fine-tune performers.
Malaikha started her journey in March when she auditioned to participate through DMH Talent Agency for the Los Angeles IPOP convention as a dancer, actress and model.
“My audition was frightening because I hadn’t had much time to prepare. During the audition I was called a triple threat and received a call back that very evening.
“I was selected to go to Los Angeles to compete against other talented people from all over the world. From that moment it was all about preparation and raising money because I had to raise R100 000 to be able to afford accommodation, flights and attend the convention. The journey was amazing and my mother made sure I got to LA,” said Malaikha.
She said the competition was tight but was worth every minute she spent with coaches and in training.
“Competition day was terrifying but I gave my best in all my three performances. I enjoyed my modelling and dancing,” said Malaikha.
The young performer said she is now focusing in raising funds for New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts.
“Going to New York is expensive but it’s also an opportunity for me to reach my full potential as a performer. My family and I are currently raising funds for my trip,” said Malaikha.
The EXPRESS ask Malaikha what it will mean to her to attend NYCDA.
“The school offers students the opportunity to transform into a working actor. I will also receive the opportunity to work on my craft and totally focus on perfecting it,” said Malaikha.
The young performer is in need of donations in achieving her dream.
Malaikha’s mother, Farrah, said she is proud of her daughter in pursuing her dreams.
“I just hope we can raise the money to afford her this opportunity of attending NYCDA,” said Farrah.
Those interested in supporting Malaikha achieve this goal can contact her mother on 082 531 8971.
