Young talent shine at world champs in LA

GEORGE NEWS - Two young performers from Tashia's Vocal Academy in George returned to South Africa with top accolades after their performances at the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) in Los Angeles, America.

Maja Snyman (17) and Mia Ryan (11), both from George, were welcomed back home on 10 July. "These two made quite an impression on the Americans," said Tashia Olivier. "Maja received a scholarship from the New York Conservatory of Arts and was scouted to star in a movie for Amazon Prime.

"Young Mia was noticed by, and has been in contact with, a multi-platinum songwriter and executive producer in LA. So watch this space!"

Mia Ryan is a Grade 6 learner at Glenwood House, and the youngest vocalist in the South African team to compete in the world championships. She received a semi-finalist medallion, a gold medal for her Rock Vocal and a gold medal for her Pop Vocal self-accompaniment with ukulele.

"Furthermore, having just turned 12, she won the Overall Division Trophy for ages 11-15 for Pop Self-accompaniment," said Olivier. Quintin van Biljon of White Peacock studio helped Mia with her stage performance.

Maja Snyman received the following medals and awards: gold for Original Work Instrumental; three gold for all three vocal items; division champion (highest score) in Vocals Original Work; division champion in Instrumental Original Works; division champion in Acting Dramatic and four silver for Instrumental.

Maja Snyman (17) received a sholarship from the New York Conservatory of Arts, along with all her gold and silver medals.