Aleysha and Ryan Zachary Shareef Van Der Horst Triumph in the US
KUCHING (July 9) – Twins Aleysha and Ryan Zachary Shareef Van Der Horst have made Sarawak and Malaysia proud by winning gold and bronze medals at the prestigious 27th World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA). The event, held in Long Beach, USA, saw the young talents excel in various categories, marking a significant milestone in their performing arts journey.
Aleysha’s Broadway Vocal Victory
Aleysha Van Der Horst secured a remarkable first-place finish in the Broadway Vocal category for ages 11 to 12. Her exceptional performance earned her the coveted title of Division Winner in the same category, showcasing her outstanding vocal abilities and stage presence.
Duet Success in Pop Vocal Category
The talented twins didn’t stop there. Both Aleysha and Ryan earned bronze medals for their captivating duet performance in the Pop Vocal category under the Junior Division. Their synergy and harmony impressed the judges and audience alike, adding to their impressive medal haul.
Grand Finals Triumph
In the grand finals, Aleysha and Ryan delivered another stellar duet performance, clinching gold medals and further solidifying their status as rising stars in the performing arts world. Their total medal count at WCOPA 2024 stands at an impressive five, highlighting their dedication and hard work.
Scholarship Award from the New York Film Academy
Adding to her accolades, Aleysha received a scholarship from the prestigious New York Film Academy. This scholarship opens new avenues for her to hone her skills and pursue her passion for the performing arts on an international platform.
Dewi Liana Seriestha’s Praise
Dewi Liana Seriestha, the first Malaysian to win the Miss Talent title at Miss World 2014 and the twins’ vocal coach, expressed her pride and joy at their achievements.
“I am so proud of them. They have worked so hard to reach this level. They finished school and went straight to training. Sometimes they didn’t even have proper meals because they were so focused on winning the competition,” Dewi told The Borneo Post when contacted today.
Dewi shared that the twins’ dedication was evident from the beginning. Initially planning to take only two classes, they insisted on continuing their rigorous training schedule until the competition’s end.
“We have been training non-stop for almost two months, three to four times a week. Their talent and enthusiasm are remarkable. As a teacher, their achievements are the greatest gift,” she added.
Representing Malaysia in Modeling
Apart from their vocal performances, Aleysha and Ryan also represented Team Malaysia in the modeling categories at WCOPA 2024. Their versatility and talent in multiple disciplines underscore their potential to become global icons in the performing arts and modeling industries.
A Journey of Hard Work and Dedication
The twins’ journey to success was marked by relentless training and unwavering commitment. Their achievements at WCOPA 2024 are a testament to their perseverance and passion for the arts. With the support of their coach, Dewi Liana Seriestha, and their own determination, Aleysha and Ryan Zachary Shareef Van Der Horst have set a high standard for aspiring performers in Malaysia and beyond.
Future Prospects
As they return home with their well-deserved medals and accolades, the future looks bright for Aleysha and Ryan. The New York Film Academy scholarship offers Aleysha an incredible opportunity to further develop her talents, while both twins are likely to continue making waves in the performing arts scene.
Their story is an inspiration to young performers everywhere, demonstrating that with hard work, dedication, and a passion for excellence, dreams can indeed become reality.
Conclusion
Aleysha and Ryan Zachary Shareef Van Der Horst’s success at WCOPA 2024 is a proud moment for Sarawak and Malaysia. Their achievements not only highlight their individual talents but also showcase the potential of young Malaysian performers on the global stage. As they continue to pursue their dreams, we can expect to see more remarkable accomplishments from these gifted twins.