When 18-year-old Brandon Strydom from Melkbosstrand stepped onto the stage in Manhattan earlier this year, he wasn’t just performing — he was representing South Africa, and a dream that began when he was just six years old.
In July 2025, Brandon competed at the Talent America finals in New York City, one of the world’s most prestigious international talent showcases. The event brought together more than 40 performers from over ten countries, each representing the best of their nations’ creative talent.
Brandon, currently in matric, was the youngest competitor in the 18 – 24 age category — but that didn’t stop him from making a powerful impression. His exceptional performances in acting and vocals earned him first place in every category he entered: Comedic Monologue, Dramatic Monologue, Vocal Broadway, and Vocal Singer’s Choice. He also walked away with the Overall Division Winner title for acting and vocals, the Pinnacle Award for the highest combined score in his age group, and a $20 000 per year scholarship to study at the New York Film Academy from 2026.
“It was an absolute honour to represent South Africa,” Brandon says with a smile. “I was so excited to be able to stand on an international stage and showcase what our country’s artists are capable of. I also wanted to represent those who didn’t have the opportunity to be there — to show that South Africa has incredible, world-class talent.”
From Durban to the world
Brandon grew up in Durban, where his passion for performing arts began early. “I was always a dramatic and expressive child,” he laughs. “I loved being in school plays and taking part in speech and drama festivals. My parents saw how much I loved it, so they enrolled me in acting classes when I was six — and that’s where it all started.”
By age 11, Brandon was already directing small productions and developing a deeper understanding of theatre. “I used to watch performances at the Baxter Theatre and Sneddon Theatre,” he recalls. “Seeing the emotion, the storytelling, the energy — I knew from the first time I stepped onto a stage that this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.”
Rising to the top
Brandon’s journey to the New York stage began when he entered the Show Your Talent: South Africa national competition. After earning three golds, three high golds, and several other trophies, he secured his place on Team South Africa for the international finals.
“The moment I found out I’d been selected was surreal,” he says. “It made me realise how far I’d come and how many people had helped me along the way.”
His competition pieces showcased both his range and his passion. For acting, he performed “The Glass Menagerie” and “Laughing Wild” — two contrasting monologues that highlighted his versatility. “I chose ‘Laughing Wild’ because it’s quirky and funny, while ‘The Glass Menagerie’ is emotional and deeply moving. I wanted to show the judges both sides of who I am as a performer.”
For his vocal performances, Brandon took on “Meadowlark” from The Baker’s Wife — a powerful, emotional song — and “Buenos Aires” from Evita, which he describes as “big, bold, and diva-driven”. “It was such a fun contrast,” he says. “One song pulled at the heartstrings, and the other was pure performance energy!”
Standing ovations and scholarships
Brandon’s performances earned him standing ovations, multiple awards, and international recognition. “When they called my name for the Pinnacle Award, I was in shock,” he admits. “I was the youngest in my category, so it was really emotional. It proved to me that age doesn’t define your ability to make an impact.”
Among his proudest achievements is the scholarship from the New York Film Academy, where he plans to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre next year. However, the scholarship covers only 50% of his tuition, leaving Brandon to raise funds for the remaining costs and living expenses.
“This opportunity means the world to me,” he says. “I’ve worked hard for years to reach this point, but I need help to make my dream a reality. I’m currently seeking sponsorships or donations through my Back-a-Buddy campaign to cover the rest of the expenses.”
A support network
Behind every performance is a team that believes in him. Brandon credits his parents for being his biggest supporters, along with his drama teacher, Joshua Wyngaard, and vocal coach, Vanessa Phillips. “They’ve been there through every step — encouraging me when things got tough and helping me perfect my craft. I honestly couldn’t have done it without them.”
While he’s focused on completing his final exams, Brandon and his coaches are already planning fundraising events for 2026. “Once my exams are done, I’ll be hosting performances and workshops to raise awareness and funds. Every bit of support helps,” he says.
Dreaming beyond the horizon
When asked what comes next, Brandon doesn’t hesitate. “Broadway,” he says with a grin. “It’s been my dream for as long as I can remember. I want to perform on the biggest stages, tell stories that move people, and inspire other young South Africans to chase their dreams — no matter where they come from.”
To young artists with big dreams but limited resources, Brandon offers heartfelt advice: “Never let where you come from limit you. South Africa has so much talent and heart, but what sets us apart is our resilience. Work hard for your dream, stay humble, and use every setback as fuel to push you forward. The end result will be even sweeter.”
Brandon is currently seeking sponsorships and donations to help fund his studies in New York.
Those interested in supporting him can reach out via email at performedbybrandon@gmail.com, call on 081 705 7281 or visit his Back-a-Buddy page (search “Performed by Brandon”) to contribute directly.
