(Nomagugu Gumede. Pic
by John Hogg)
The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) interviews Nomagugu
Gumede, winner of a R105,000 ACT performing arts scholarship in 2011, who has
completed her studies at Howard College in Durban.
To the question: “Is performing arts something you always
wanted to do?”, Gumede replied: “One of my earliest memories is of me yearning
to be a part of the entertainment world. At that stage, I didn’t understand how
much hard work and dedication is needed to become a professional entertainer;
all I knew was that it would be the perfect industry for me. If given the
opportunity, I was sure I would excel, not only because of my immense passion
and talent, but because I am unique and I have a burning desire to show it to
the world.”
She remembers participating in the ACT | DALRO | Nedbank
Performing Arts Scholarships with fondness.
“The ACT | DALRO | Nedbank Performing Arts Scholarship
competition was like no other. It is my greatest achievement to date, not only
because I won a scholarship, but because I won my mother’s respect and support
for my craft. Growing up in a township where art is frowned upon and not seen
as a viable career choice is tough. It is even more difficult knowing your
family sees your passion as a joke. My mother has always been against me
pursuing this career path; and I was willing to risk our relationship for what
I love and truly believe in. I knew I would never receive her blessing so I had
to work extra hard to show her how serious I am, and what better way to prove
myself than winning a scholarship to study what I love.”
The full interview can be seen on the ACT website at http://www.act.org.za/blog/affecting-the-world-through-art/
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