It was Hunter Plaatjies’ mother who encouraged her to study drama at Stellenbosch University.

“I’ve had a love for acting and storytelling from an early age,” the young actress recalls. “I loved it so much that I participated in eisteddfods and took drama as a subject, but when it came to my university studies, I chose to study BCom Management Sciences, solely for financial stability.”

Luckily, Hunter’s mom knew her daughter well, and when she found out that the SU Drama Department held auditions, she persuaded her to give it a go. “After my audition I knew that acting was the career I would like to pursue. I have no regrets and I am grateful for the encouragement and support I received from my parents.” 

Hunter loved her student years, especially the opportunity to constantly be in the presence of other creatives and have the freedom to think about stories and content every day. “I also enjoyed living in a residence and making lifelong friends whilst studying.” 

The actress has already acted in a number of stage and TV productions but is best known as Saartjie in the very popular Afrikaans telenovela Arendsvlei on KykNet&Kie, a role she is particularly proud of. 

“The role of Saartjie in Arendsvlei has been one of my stand-out roles because it was my first acting job after I completed my studies. It is a well-known production, already in its fifth season, and I have learned so much from the many experienced actors whom I have always admired. I also enjoyed getting to play a school kid, putting on a uniform again, and reminiscing about my own school days.” 

More recently, Hunter has filmed a Media24 project and a feature in Projek Dina, Season 3, and she is looking forward to shooting a new KykNet&Kie show soon, which will be aired in 2023. 

Besides acting, she is also running her own business called ‘Bedecked Headwear’. 

“Headwear has always been very present in my life – from wearing a cap for tennis to needing a hat for church. I have found headwear to be the most versatile item because you can wear it to elevate your outfit, wear it for shade, wear it to provide warmth, or just wear it to hide whatever is underneath. The thought of a headwear brand came to me during lockdown in 2020. But when we went into lockdown again in 2021, I figured there was no better time to try and put the plan to action.”

Hunter says she is proud of her achievements, big and small, because they are all part of her journey and contribute to the bigger picture. “While it’s hard to single out an accomplishment, obtaining an Honours Degree in Drama and Theatre Studies (specialising in Media and Production) at Stellenbosch University means a lot to me, as it has given me the platform I needed and broadened my knowledge.”

She is also proud of putting together an entire stage production during Covid, titled Lost?. “I wrote the script, applied for funding from the National Arts Council, did the casting and oversaw the venues, costumes and everything production-related, whilst performing in the play as well.”

She strives to continuously encourage the youth and to let them know that they need not settle for anything less than their dreams.

“I am motivated by being committed to self-development and expanding my skillset. My advice to fellow alumni is to continue exploring your skillset as far as you can. Commit yourself to the projects you take on, have a good work ethic, and learn when to say no. Your efforts and hard work will pay off, even if it’s not immediately.”

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