Building the youth of the nation through arts education
For over a decade, the International Arts Talent Showcase (IATS) has not only been identifying local talent, but developing that talent through international arts education.
Every year, Elsubie Louwrens, Chairman and CEO of 33 & Me Talent Agency and Producer of the IATS, travels across the country to scout the new budding talent this country offers. She will be in Limpopo on Saturday 3 June, looking for singers, actors, dancers and models of all ages. Those who receive a call back at the audition will have the opportunity to be part of the IATS 2023, now in its thirteenth year, where they will showcase their unique talents in front of top international talent scouts.
Participants will also partake in an industry-related workshop presented on the day. Elsubie says, “We are looking forward to hosting multi-talented aspiring artists in search of a career and casting opportunities in the film and fashion industry. Recovering from a devastating global pandemic, it’s time for the youth of our nation to ensure their voices are heard. The industry has again gained momentum and is looking for YOU!” Last year’s IATS event awarded youngsters over a million dollars worth of scholarships to study in the United States.
The auspicious event also welcomed several American agents, including the Global Head of Brand Programs at NETFLIX, Kamey Butler, Tyler Perry Studios Senior Casting Executive, Rhavynn Drummer, as well as singer-songwriter, producer and casting director, Nate Butler. Powerfully equipped with 25 years of industry experience and knowledge, Elsubie is actively involved and dominating all spectrums of the music, film, fashion, entertainment, and media industries. She elevates and casts light on untapped talent in South Africa and ardently fosters and drives them toward international accolades.
Also read: ‘I am an extremely creative person’
Elsubie’s ethos is to uplift the nation to heights they never deemed possible – to set their hearts on fire for what they are most passionate about and to equip them with the tools necessary to bring their dreams to life. Elsubie elaborates, “The youth are our future. My aim is to equip, inspire and build a powerful nation of creatives.” As an empowerment leader, Elsubie is making the dreams of thousands of South Africans a reality. She says, “We might be a third-world country, but we have first-world potential”. It is important to note that this is not a competition. It is a platform to nurture local talent, provide artists with business opportunities and create longevity in the workplace.
Lastly, select auditions and workshops will form part of a new reality television show called Dream Factory.
Elsubie concludes, “Dream Factory, in collaboration with The International ARTS Talent Showcase, is travelling the country to create hope, empower and educate the youth. We are discovering, identifying, and developing our nation. Dream Factory is where dreams are manufactured, a show that will showcase the talent in all nine provinces, filled with back stories of struggle and victory. Moving from a victim to a victory mindset, Dream Factory will drive hope, showcase undiscovered talent and empower our nation with real stories of transformation and success.” To take part in the IATS auditions, please email info@itsartsafrica.co.za






