After four weeks of putting hopefuls through their paces at national auditions in Bloemfontein, Durban, Port Elizabeth, Polokwane, Cape Town and Johannesburg, the top 10 contestants for My Top Billing Dream have finally been chosen after much deliberation.
Thousands of budding presenters auditioned, all with the dream of bagging the country’s most coveted prize of becoming Top Billing’s next presenter and joining the ranks of Jeannie D and Janez Vermeiren who, thanks to Top Billing, have travelled the world and constantly get to rub shoulders with the rich and famous!
Janez was a judge for the first round and was joined by Lorna Maseko, Ursula Chikane, Jo-Ann Strauss, Sinazo Yolwa and Tswelopele representatives. Those who made an impression on the judges were invited back for the second round where the top 100 contestants were chosen to audition for Top Billing Executive Producer, Patience Stevens, Jeannie D and comedian and Face of Nedbank Savvy Eugene Khoza.
Among the top 100 contestants were 10 outstanding auditions with incredible stories to tell. Over the next seven weeks you’ll be able to watch all the thrills, glamour, inspiration and adventure that is the My Top Billing Dream reality show.
With prizes sponsored by Nedbank, Mercedes Bens, Virgin Active, Woolworths and Metal CH the ultimate winner is guaranteed to be living The Best of the Good Life!
Meet the top 10:
Before pursuing a modelling and presenting career, Khanya Ngumbela had dreams of studying medicine or journalism – the former so she could help people and the latter so that she could expose the truth to the public.
Lauren Wallet is an AFDA graduate and throughout her adult life she has owned her own business and been her own boss. Lauren’s current business is called ‘Malva’ – a pop-up stall which showcases creativity from various designers in South Africa across fashion, household design, novelties and art.
Zama Ngcobo got a head start in her career when she became a continuity presenter for SABC 1 in 2007. Since then she’s aspired for more and hasn’t looked back, landing a role as a radio DJ for Ukhozi FM and most recently appearing on South Africa’s biggest soapie, Generations, as Tabitha Morris.
After majoring in Drama and TV Journalism at Rhodes University, Jonathan Boynton-Lee began his journey directing, acting and writing for theatre before making the big transition to film. Will Jonathan’s sincere character and friendly demeanour turn out to be just what Top Billing is looking for?
Kerusha Kisten is determined to make her dream of being a Top Billing presenter a reality. “Right now it’s about me; I’m ready to take on this challenge. I have the passion and desire for it. It feels as though I’ve been chasing a dream and now I have the opportunity to catch it.”
As a trained opera singer, Lynelle Kenned poses the threat of hard work and dedication, not to mention the versatility card she says she has up her sleeve.
Zama Mtshali, a fun-loving Sharks flasher, has an insatiable curiosity about the world and a great love for meeting and interacting with new people – two qualities that will stand her in excellent stead as a TV presenter.
Chamendran Naidoo is in the competition for the long haul, armed with his wit, humour and debonair looks. Does this modern-day gentleman have what it takes to take it to the finish?
With a degree in Global Business Leadership and a postgraduate qualification in film and television production, Greg Kriek has been working hard in developing his practical skills set as a producer, writer and actor.
Edgy drama student, Lauren Blackwell impressed the judges with her alternative image and husky voice, not to mention her natural ability to hold the attention of a room without even trying.
Don’t miss My Top Billing Dream every Tuesday on SABC3 at 8pm to root for your favourite as the finalists go head to head in highly pressured situations. Find out who will make the cut and who will have to hang up their top hat as the competition heats up as the stakes rise and ultimately one talented young South African gets to realise their Top Billing dream.
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