Most days, Arno du Toit can be found behind the wheel of a forklift, moving crates and equipment at a wine and spirits company in Wellington. To some, he might look like an ordinary man with an everyday job, but there’s more to him than meets the eye.
When the forklift stops and he returns home to his wife of 12 years and three daughters, Du Toit’s true talent comes alive – singing. He has taken a shot at the spotlight by entering the Agri’s Got Talent competition, an opportunity that has reignited his love for music.
“When the opportunities come, I sing… My children encourage and inspire me a lot,” he says, smiling.
“We sing together and it brings a lot of joy into the house. It’s encouraged me to try again.”
While Du Toit’s love for singing has mostly been a private joy shared with his family, Agri’s Got Talent is his first big public step towards sharing that gift with others.
“I enjoy RnB, blues, and jazzy vibes,” he says. “A few years ago, I was part of the Kaapse Klopse, so that’s the kind of music I like. I grew up listening to artists like Usher, Bow Wow, and Ciara. When it comes to singing a song, if it fits my voice, I’ll sing it.”
Lessons from the warehouse
Du Toit is no stranger to hard work. Born in Ceres, he has built his life and career in Wellington’s wine industry, working at DGB (Pty) Ltd.
“I am a positive person and always try to see the world in a better light despite the daily challenges.”
For a decade, Du Toit worked outside the wine industry but he found something special when he joined the industry.
“I discovered it was something completely different. It is beautiful to see the process of winemaking. For me, coming to a wine farm every morning is a big pleasure. The wine industry has taught me to always aim high and do better.”
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Yes, to vocal training
For years, Du Toit followed Agri’s Got Talent on social media. “I would’ve [auditioned] about two years ago, but I wasn’t working in the wine industry back then.”
When auditions opened this year, his senior colleague encouraged him to submit a video. “It took me a while to find the motivation to do the audition video, but I eventually did it. I’m grateful for the opportunity and look forward to taking on the journey with the team.”
He’s looking forward to learning from a vocal coach, something he’s never had before, and to learn about stage performance and song selection.
While Du Toit may not see himself pursuing a career as a professional artist, he is excited to share his talent and make the most of the experience. Who knows, this might just inspire him to finally release the songs he’s kept to himself all these years.
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