There is something about Vashti Prins of Suidooster fame that reminds one of the classic British actress Audrey Hepburn. They have the same elegance, unassuming girlish charm, and beauty. And just like the Hollywood icon back then, Vashti is also forging her own, unique path to stardom.
The Kuils River native’s big break came when she submitted an audition tape for a part in the SABC soap 7de Laan. Unbeknown to her, the tape was also forwarded to the casting director for the kykNET soap Suidooster, who invited her for a face-to-face audition. And the rest, as they say, is history.
The Stellenbosch University alumna has been portraying the character of Danielle Hendricks since 2017 and describes the part as both challenging and rewarding. “One of the things I enjoy most about my character and the show is that the writers and producers trust me to tell hard-hitting and relevant stories, and for that I am grateful. These stories force you to draw on your compassion and imagination, and on moments in your own life when you experienced similar emotions,” Vashti says. “And the most rewarding part is when a viewer who went through something similar comes up to you and says: ‘Thank you for shedding light on my experience. Thank you for telling my story.’ It is in those moments that you realise how powerful acting is in representing people and communities, and making them feel seen and heard.”
The life of an actor is not all glitz and glamour, she says. “I don’t think people realise how time-consuming acting is. It’s hard work and requires constant study and upskilling, and it leaves you with very little sleep!” she says. “That’s why I value my time off, which I spend doing absolutely nothing, sleeping, engaging in social activities, listening to music, meditating, or simply watching a movie. I actively seek out activities that do not require me to do much thinking.”
Her face lights up when she reflects on her time as a student at SU, where she first obtained the degree BA (Drama and Theatre Studies) and later her Honours in Acting. “I remember having an awesome time with the girls in Irene residence. They were just so friendly, welcoming and full of stories and humour. It was lovely to come back to a space where someone was always willing to welcome you with a cup of coffee or a latenight chat.
“And I remember the moments that made campus life so special and that will stay with me forever – DCM coffees and hot chocolate, macaroni-andcheese from the SPAR in the Neelsie, long walks to your classes and then walking back to res with your friends afterwards, burning the midnight oil in Humarga, and running across to the Pick n Pay Express for a snack to get you through the night …”
She cleverly sidesteps questions about future projects that might carry her name. “There are definitely some things in the pipeline. Perhaps in film, theatre or music. The future will tell. But for now, I want to achieve success as a compassionate, welcoming, curious and kind human in a world that is hurting. I strive to make decisions that will have a positive impact on the generations that will come after me, and that will make them proud.”
And there is little doubt that she is well on her way to leaving that lasting positive legacy – just like Audrey Hepburn.
- Photos: Stefan Els
- This is the first issue of our magazine for Maties alumni, and many of the stories reflect the resilience of the individual writ large.
If you are seeking a few life hacks or simple reminders about turning adversity into opportunity, do read on, Maties!
https://console.vpaper.ca/stellenbosch-university/always-a-matie-202301_eng/
