Durban University of Technology (DUT) Drama and Production Studies student, Amani Ndaba is on the verge of realising her dreams as she has been accepted to the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London, an institution known for its history of producing some of the world’s finest performing artists. The news has left Ndaba feeling overwhelmed with excitement and gratitude.

“I’m completely overwhelmed with gratitude and excitement! Receiving the news about my acceptance to the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama is truly a dream come true. It’s an incredible honour to be given the opportunity to study at such a prestigious institution, surrounded by talented individuals who share my passion for the performing arts,” Ndaba said.

A love for the arts has always been central to Ndaba’s life. She started her journey in high school, where she majored in dramatic arts and visual arts. It was there that her passion for acting was sparked, despite initially having no formal knowledge of the craft.

“Growing up, I’ve always had a profound connection to the arts. My journey began in high school, where I initially pursued both dramatic arts and visual arts. As the demands of these subjects intensified, I made the pivotal decision to focus on dramatic arts despite having limited knowledge of acting at the time. This choice proved to be a turning point, as I soon discovered my passion for acting,” she shared.

Throughout high school, Ndaba struggled with self-doubt, often seeing herself as the “wallflower.” Yet, it was on stage where she felt a true sense of freedom, which led to personal growth and awards such as the prestigious Untiedt Trophy for Most Versatile Actress.

“Whenever I stepped onto the stage or immersed myself in a role, I felt an unparalleled sense of freedom. My dedication and hard work culminated in receiving the prestigious Untiedt Trophy, also known as the Principal’s Award for Most Versatile Actress, in my matric year,” Ndaba added.

After high school, she spent the next three years pursuing her acting dream. Along the way, she joined the Community Arts Mentorship Program with the Playhouse Company, although multiple rejections initially stood in her way. However, Ndaba found a new path through Performing Arts Technology, which she believes ultimately set her on the right trajectory.

“I stumbled upon Performing Arts Technology. Although it meant putting my acting aspirations on hold, I decided to pursue a Higher Certificate in Performing Arts Technology. Little did I know that this was a way of God redirecting me to something I was destined to do,” she said.

The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama has long been Ndaba’s top choice due to its stellar reputation, and the acceptance letter was a momentous event for her. The application process, especially the interview, was particularly meaningful.

“The lady who interviewed me made the experience enjoyable, which helped calm down my nerves. I also loved the interview process because throughout the whole thing, it hadn’t sunk in that this was real until I did my interview. Receiving the acceptance letter email was a reminder that every sacrifice was worth it,” Ndaba reflected.

Hailing from humble beginnings, Ndaba credits her resilience to her mother, who has been her biggest inspiration and a symbol of hard work and sacrifice. As the eldest of three siblings, she feels a deep sense of responsibility and independence.

“She’s my biggest inspiration, having selflessly dedicated her life to fulfilling our dreams. As the eldest, I feel a deep sense of responsibility to support myself financially,” Ndaba explained.

To make her dream a reality, Ndaba has started a crowdfunding campaign through Back-a-Buddy, aiming to raise funds for her studies. The required amount to cover essential expenses such as tuition, accommodation, travel, and other living costs totals between £40,000 and £60,000 per year.

“This is why I’ve started a Back-a-Buddy campaign – not just to raise funds, but to share my story, inspire others, and show that circumstances don’t define one’s potential,” she said.

Ndaba encourages aspiring artists facing financial challenges to seek scholarships, grants, and crowdfunding opportunities and to never lose faith in their abilities. “Don’t let financial constraints silence your creative voice. Your talent, passion, and dedication deserve to be nurtured,” she said.

She is scheduled to begin her studies in September 2025 and hopes to raise the necessary funds by the end of June 2025 to cover her pre-departure costs.

To find out more on her campaign, go to: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/dreams-across-borders~2

Nkosingiphile Dladla