Dancing, performing, and taking part in eisteddfods came naturally to Caitlyn Kleyn.

But singing in public? That was her Everest.

Born to be on stage, the Northvilla resident and Hoërskool Hans Moore learner had her sights set on joining the school’s acclaimed revue troupe. Choreographed steps flowed easily through her body, and her voice blended seamlessly into choir harmonies, but the moment she was handed a microphone to sing solo, she would shrink into her shell.

That’s why her family was stunned when Caitlyn announced she wanted to audition in the vocal division for the Johannesburg leg of the iPOP! (International Presentation of Performers), an international convention held in Los Angeles that connects aspiring performers with top agents, managers, and casting directors in the entertainment industry.

“My husband and I run a family-owned financial services business,” said her mother, Zelda.

“We were raised to believe that a successful career follows strict office hours. Caitlyn is not someone who fits into a box. She is expressive and spontaneous. These are traits we always encouraged, but we never thought she’d pursue an entertainment career.”

Caitlyn not only auditioned, she passed. Along with 19 other South Africans, she travelled solo for the first time to the City of Angels from June 25 to July 2 to represent her country at the international leg of iPOP!.

“It was the first time I’d travelled abroad, and alone,” she said, smiling.

“It was nerve-wracking but worth it. I summited my Everest by stepping onto a world stage among 2 000 delegates, and I sang to my heart’s content.”

And sing she did. Caitlyn not only performed, but won gold in the 18+ female vocal division, a feat made even more remarkable by the fact that she has had no formal training.

“I was blown away. I couldn’t believe I had won,” she said.

“Since returning home, I’ve been inundated with calls from agents and talent scouts. James Lugo, a celebrity vocal coach from Nashville, reached out, as well as producers who’ve worked with Justin Bieber and Demi Lovato.”

Describing her style, Caitlyn says she gravitates towards country music with a splash of pop.

“Country is so expressive. It tells a story,” she said with a giggle.

“I can be a little dramatic, so the genre suits me perfectly.”

Looking ahead, Caitlyn says she’s cautiously optimistic about where her talent might take her.

“I want to give this a shot,” she said.

“Even though my parents are a bit hesitant, I feel I owe it to myself to see where this journey could lead. If it doesn’t work out, I’ll pursue tertiary studies and follow a more ‘safe’ career path, but for now, I’m chasing the dream.”

Quick fire Q&A with Caitlyn Kleyn:
What was your first impression of LA?
It’s brimming with opportunity, but it’s not quite the Hollywood ‘wow’ I imagined.

What song would you love to perform on a world stage?
Carly Simon’s You’re So Vain. I think it perfectly sums up my various personalities.

Do you explore other creative outlets?
Yes! I’ve written a novel loosely based on Greek mythology and I’m looking at ways to get it published.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I spend a lot of time at the gym. I love weight training and I’ve recently taken up running. Surprisingly, I’m loving it!

Have you experienced online bullying?
Not personally, no. I believe that when you put yourself out there, you open yourself to criticism. But you also have the power to block out negativity to protect yourself.

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