For talented performer from Crawford International Lonehill Mia Busansky, standing under the spotlight feels like home.

After seven years of competing at the South African Championships of the Performing Arts (SACOPA), Mia has once again dazzled audiences, this time bringing home an astounding 21 medals and earning a coveted place in Team South Africa for next year’s World Championships of the Performing Arts (WCOPA) in Las Vegas. “It’s an incredible feeling to represent my province on such a prestigious stage. I love the thrill of performing and competing alongside so many talented contestants, and I feel truly privileged to showcase my hard work and passion among such remarkable performers.”

Read more: Midrand girl excels in World Championships of Performing Arts

SACOPA is no small feat. The event runs for ten days, demanding both stamina and discipline from participants. For Mia, who competed in 39 items across acting, vocal performance, and petite modelling, the experience was a whirlwind of quick changes, long rehearsals, and excitement.

“It’s gruelling, but in the best possible way. I couldn’t do it without my support system. My mom, my coaches, my team, and, of course, a steady supply of pancakes and Nando’s.”

Behind her success stands a team of mentors and loved ones who inspire her daily. From teachers like Tandee Coppin, to her coaches Jill Avis Donnaley and Joshua Parker, along with her ever-supportive parents.
While Mia excels in multiple categories, acting is where her heart truly lies. “Acting allows me to step into someone else’s story, and share it with an audience. For those ninety seconds on stage, I get to become another person, and that’s such a privilege.”

Also read: Local teams rake in the medals

Her dedication was further rewarded when her vocal group, Upstage, was crowned overall grand champions, winning two major awards. “We went in with humble expectations, just wanting to do our best. Representing both Upstage and Crawford made the win even more meaningful.”

Mia’s journey began at Crawford Preparatory, where she first fell in love with performing. Joining Upstage Concepts at age eleven, she found, not only her passion, but a place where she felt she truly belonged.
Now, as she looks ahead to representing South Africa on the world stage in Las Vegas in 2026, Mia is filled with both excitement and gratitude. “It’s such an honour to represent my country and learn from international professionals. I’d love to compete for a scholarship and grow as a performer.”

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