Laikin Govender

Laikin Govender is an ambitious 27-year-old woman, who graduated with her Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree in Drama and Performance Studies (Cum laude) at the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal in Pietermaritzburg in 2011. The majority of Laikin's early experience within the dramatic arts, has been theatre-based and includes productions held at UKZN and the Hexagon Theatre. Laikin was fortunate enough to be cast as leading female characters in the following performances; The Winter's Tale (2008), The Love of the Nightingale (2009), Medea (2010), and the all-time Shakespearean classic, Midsummer Night's Dream(2010). Laikin has also directed two plays during her tertiary education, namely Iranian Knights (2010) written by Howard Brenton and Tariq Ali, and Crave (2011) written by Sarah Kane. Both pieces were showcased in Pietermaritzburg, and depict her affinity for theatre and entertainment which pushes its audience members to think and reflect upon life and society. In 2013, she acted as Nadia in the production 'LEAP' written by Tendayi Nyeke and edited and directed by Andrew Tim. This production opened a new style of theatre and performance to Laikin through the incorporation of multimedia special effects as well as through the opportunity to work with some bigger names within the South African Industry. Having been brought up in Kwa-Zulu Natal, Laikin has a huge regard for a variety of cultures, religions and traditions which is evident in the love she has for people. Having taken Psychology as her second major in university, Laikin developed a strong regard for Drama Therapy practices. Subsequently, as a means of giving back to her local community, in 2013 and 2014, Laikin volunteered at the Hands of Compassion Farm close to Elandsdrift, where she spent her time teaching drama to a group of orphaned children. The purpose was to promote their growth and development via the avenue of dramatic skills. Other than being represented by Foxstar Talent Agency in commercial work, Laikin is also a freelance actress and voice over artist. In 2015, Laikin partnered with an American based public company in the health and wellness industry, and since then has been self-employed, so as to provide more time for her to pursue her acting career. In the same year, Laikin was cast as Alice Smith in the TV Series 'The Crossing', where she started to develop a working relationship with the executive producer, writer and director, Nicho Barnard. In 2016 Laikin also participated in the 48 hour film project, and was the lead actress in the short film 'Play Me', produced by Nightlight Productions. The film won a local award at the competition and competed at other festivals in New York and Los Angeles. As of January 2017, Nicho Barnard, appointed Laikin as Co-Director of NJ Entertainment (Pty) Ltd. The two have developed an exceptional partnership, and are expectant to encourage change, growth and development within the South African Entertainment Industry.