Singing sensation, Dané Steenkamp (13) from Jeffreys Bay, recently showcased her remarkable talent at Talent America, where she achieved outstanding success when she took top honours in the prestigious Singers’ Choice category, and impressed judges with her second-place finishes in both the Broadway/Classical and Inspirational categories.
As previously reported by Kouga Express, Steenkamp, who is a Grade 8 learner at Nico Malan High School, initially began singing as a coping mechanism after she moved from Gauteng to Jeffreys Bay four years ago.
Shortly after moving, she joined Vibe Music Academy where she was exposed to a new world of participating in various singing competitions which gave her a major boost in confidence.
Finally, after participating in the nationals and provincials of Show your Talent in 2023, Steenkamp received her provincial colours and was the only singer from the Eastern Cape to be chosen for the South African performing arts team to compete live at Talent America.
From June 22 to July 3 she participated in various singing categories at the Talent America competition in New York.
“It was an overwhelming yet fun experience, travelling to New York where I got to meet new people and visit different places,” said Steenkamp.
Once on stage, she said she was not stressed or nervous.
“Even though I sang on stage in front of many people I knew that I had a lot of people cheering for me,” said Steenkamp.
Singing Matilda by Harry Styles when she performed in the Singers’ Choice category, Steenkamp said she was surprised when she won first place.
Steenkamp also won second place in both the Broadway/Classical category and Inspirational category.
“I was shocked that I won first place in the Singers’ Choice category and second in two other categories, especially after hearing all the other contestants’ performances. Even though I was shocked I was still very happy to have won,” said Steenkamp.
To further add to the “magical experience”, Steenkamp was awarded a Summer School Scholarship to the value of US$1 000 (approximately R18 000) from The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts.
The scholarship will afford her the opportunity to attend a four-week long summer school programme in July 2025 in New York.
“I was really hoping to receive this scholarship, because I knew about the opportunities it would offer me, but I was still surprised when my name was called,” said Steenkamp.
She said she was also asked for a “callback card” by a singing scout which she is excited about.
Steenkamp said her callback card provides the singing scout with all her personal information and contact details.
“I am very happy and excited that a singing scout asked for a callback card, because it shows that people see my talent,” said Steenkamp.
To prepare for her New York trip in July 2025, she said she would be grateful for any donations or sponsorships which will be used to pay for her trip and accommodation.
Before she leaves in July, Steenkamp said she will continue to participate in various singing competitions, with the National Eisteddfod taking place in August, and Show your Talent and Talent Africa are on her list for later this year.
Through her experience, she also hopes to encourage young people to follow their dreams.
“I want to motivate and encourage others to use their talent and chase their dreams,” said Steenkamp.
For more information, or to assist with Steenkamp’s trip to New York, contact her mother, Daphne Steenkamp at 083 226 6227.
