Marelee Ferreira: From Curro talent to ATKV-DigiToneel champion

06 February 2025

 

Marelee Ferreira Curro Windhoek Gymnasium - Class of 2024

 

Curro Windhoek Gymnasium’s Marelee Ferreira (18) has been crowned the winner of ATKV-DigiToneel 2024, a highlight announced during the final episode of Gekies vir die Kollig in November. This eight-month reality series on VIA set out to uncover South Africa’s most promising on-screen talent, and Marelee’s self-written monologue In My Kop... captivated the judges. Adding to the excitement, Marelee now stars in Reënboogrant (PG 13), currently streaming on Showmax. Two episodes air every Wednesday, with one episode on KykNET on Fridays at 18:30.

 

 

Marelee has competed in ATKV-DigiToneel since 2020, steadily honing her craft each year until she finally took home the title. For Marelee, perseverance has been key. ‘Coaches and circumstances don’t have to be obstacles,’ she says. ‘If you are passionate about something, grab every opportunity with both hands, make the most of it, stay open to learning new things, and persevere – you can succeed, even if you don’t have the same opportunities or exposure in your community.’

 

Her storytelling prowess has already gained recognition, with dreams of making a difference both on and behind the camera.

‘Marelee Ferreira is a name to remember,’ says JJ van Niekerk, director of Gekies vir die Kollig. ‘She’s worked with great passion and perseverance, becoming an inspiration for young people. Watching her grow from 2020 to now has been a privilege. I’ll be following her career with great interest.’

Winning mentor Jacques Bessenger praises Marelee’s ability to take full ownership of her project. He explains that she not only acted but also wrote, directed, filmed, and edited her monologue with no professional assistance. ‘It’s remarkable that she can do all of this at such a young age!’ Jacques says, noting that she turned her monologue into a short film.

ATKV-DigiToneel, now in its fifth year, equips participants with essential acting skills, providing a vital platform to showcase and refine their talents.