Who says growing up in a small town limits your dreams? Kelvin Conway te Baerts is living proof that ambition, hard work, and determination can take you far beyond the boundaries of your hometown. Born and raised in the modest town of Klerksdorp, North West Province, Kelvin is now walking runways worldwide, a true testament to the power of dreams.
Kelvin reflects on his roots, “I grew up in a close-knit community where life was simple. My family lived a middle-class life, and we always supported one another. I was fascinated by the stories on television and in movies, dreaming of being part of those worlds.”
While fate played its part, Kelvin’s rise wasn’t accidental. With motivation, consistency, and an unyielding passion for the entertainment industry, he worked tirelessly to create opportunities for himself. “My journey has been a tapestry woven with determination, passion, and a relentless pursuit,” he says.
Support from his parents was crucial. They encouraged his creative interests by enrolling him in local drama classes, and from there, Kelvin’s love for performing arts blossomed. Singing, dancing, and acting became his second nature, alongside his sports participation. “These experiences ignited a fire in me, one that would drive me towards a career in the entertainment industry.”
His upbringing in Klerksdorp also shaped his mental well-being, providing him with a sense of stability in an often chaotic world. After school, Kelvin moved to Johannesburg to chase his dream, beginning with a photo shoot for a local agency. The road wasn’t easy – the competition was fierce, and rejection was a constant companion. But each setback only deepened his resolve.
Kelvin’s breakthrough came when he landed a commercial modelling job with KFC, followed by a guest appearance on Klankbank. “It was surreal seeing my face associated with such a big brand,” he recalls. This success opened more doors, leading to a major opportunity in Grammy Award-winning artist Tyla’s music video and a coveted spot walking the runway at World Fashion Week Dubai, held at the prestigious Versace Hotel.
Despite his success in modelling, Kelvin’s passion for acting remained strong. He eventually found his way into a Netflix series, How to Ruin Love, showcasing his versatility as both a model and actor. Reflecting on his achievements, Kelvin says, “I’ve had amazing coaches in acting, singing, dancing, and modelling, and I’m grateful for every opportunity that’s come my way.”
Recently, Kelvin added another milestone to his career by walking in Opulent Models South Africa, the largest fashion runway event in the country. But to Kelvin, success is more than accolades. “How you present yourself, your energy and kindness—these are the things that people remember. Being noticed for who you are is priceless,” he shares.
Kelvin’s journey is far from over. His sights are set on New York in 2025, where he plans to expand his network and explore the international entertainment scene. “My goals are clear: to keep growing, to keep challenging myself, and to make a mark in the industry.”
For anyone aspiring to follow in his footsteps, Kelvin offers this advice: “Have a clear goal, work on yourself and your mental health, and develop your skills. Every single day is an opportunity to get closer to making your dream a reality.”
Kelvin Conway te Baerts’ inspiring journey from a small town to the global stage serves as a reminder that no dream is too big when you’re willing to chase it.