Windhoek
Namibian presenters have chance to try their luck in the current hunt for the first African presenter on lifestyle channel The Learning Channel (TLC) Entertainment.
The campaign to uncover a local TLC host kicked off on August 2 with hopes of finding the next African star to present TLC TOP 10 – a brand new series coming to TLC Entertainment (DStv 172) in November. Amelia Maliqeenhia, sees it as a good opportunity for aspiring presenters like herself to go out there, make use of the opportunity and explore their potential out of the ordinary. “I will definitely enter because you never know when it’s your turn or your time. We got so many potential presenters in Namibia and taking their skills on an international level is something to not even think twice about,” says Maliqeenhia.
Popular local presenter, Ashwyn Mberi, says if he was to get the chance to present, it will not be about gaining something but for the service he can provide. “I’m still seeing how entering affects me contractually with NBC and Opportunity Knocks. But if I have the leeway I will probably enter. Naturally, I work hard enough to be sure of the quality I can produce but it will be up to TLC with regards to preference. If I’m to get it then it’s not about what I can get out of the show but more about making sure the service I provide is of a standard that is hard to beat,” he says.
Mberi adds that the country is filled with a fountain of talent that will not run dry anytime soon and encourages fellow presenters to not allow fear to step ahead of their dreams. “Fear is in the mind and it lives right next to confidence, the mentality you feed is the one that will grow. No matter where you are from, if you have a dream, then you have a goal you need to achieve, don’t deprive the world of your talent.” says Mberi.
In an online interview with the Vice President of Channels for Discovery Networks, Lee Hobbs, explains that,” We want candidates with a passion for and knowledge about TLC Entertainment. They must feel like a genuine, enthusiastic fan and a fit for the channel in terms of their attitude and vibrancy. In the video submissions, we’ll be looking for potential presenters who come across as confident, entertaining and engaging.”
Entrants are invited to submit a two minute video audition, via the specially created Next Great Presenter website, showcasing their presenting skills and explaining why they are the perfect presenter.
Candidates also need to read a pre-written script to camera, details of which will also be on the website. A panel of experts will then whittle down a shortlist, but it will be up to the TLC viewers to choose the lucky winner. Deadline for entries is September 3.