An 11-year-old learner from Milnerton is preparing to take centre stage internationally after being selected to represent South Africa at the prestigious International Championships for Performance Arts (ICPA) in Barcelona, Spain, this June.
Gianna Khusal, a Grade 6 learner at Milnerton Primary School, has earned the opportunity to compete among some of the world’s most talented young performers.
She will showcase her abilities in both piano and vocal categories, competing in the 12-year-old age group — a notable achievement as she is the youngest recorded South African representative to take part at this level.
The ICPA is regarded as a leading international platform for young performers, bringing together rising stars from across the globe.
Talent nurtured locally
Gianna’s musical journey is rooted in her local community. She trains at the New Rising Arts Studio in Milnerton, where her talent has been carefully nurtured and developed.
Through consistent training and guidance, she has built a strong foundation in both instrumental and vocal performance, allowing her to excel across multiple disciplines.
Behind Gianna’s achievement lies years of dedication, discipline and countless hours of practice.
“Her passion for music is evident in her commitment to honing her craft, as she often balancing schoolwork with rigorous rehearsal schedules,” says her mother, Gita Jagjivan Khusal.
Those who have worked with her describe her as focused, hardworking and driven — qualities that have helped her stand out in a competitive field.
A proud moment for community and country
Gianna’s selection marks not only a personal milestone, but also a moment of pride for her school, her community and South Africa as a whole.
As she prepares to travel to Barcelona, she carries the South African flag with her, representing the country on an international stage.
Her achievement highlights the depth of young talent emerging from local communities and the importance of supporting the arts at grassroots level.
Gianna’s journey is already inspiring other young performers to pursue their dreams. With the international spotlight awaiting, Gianna is set to embrace the experience and showcase her talent with confidence and pride.
