Aardvark Casting is one of Africa's largest casting agencies for babies, children and adults. Most of the students in the Helen O'Grady Drama Academy join Aardvark Casting.

Nastassja Potgieter is the Principal of Helen O’Grady Drama Academy West Coast, where she leads with a strong commitment to developing confidence, communication, and creativity in young people.

Born and raised in Durban, Nastassja was immersed in the dramatic arts from an early age. She went on to complete her ND: Drama at the Durban University of Technology, graduating Cum Laude in 2008, followed by a BTEC in Drama at Tshwane University of Technology in 2009, where she specialised in physical theatre and singing. Her passion for both the arts and education led her to further her studies with a PGCE, also awarded Cum Laude in 2014.

Nastassja’s journey with Helen O’Grady Drama Academy spans several years and cities, having taught across branches in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town. This diverse experience has shaped her dynamic and inclusive teaching approach, grounded in both strong technical training and a deep understanding of child development.

Now leading the West Coast branch, she is dedicated to creating an inspiring environment where students are encouraged to find their voice, build self-belief, and develop essential life skills. Nastassja firmly believes that through drama, so much is possible, and that creativity should be nurtured in every aspect of life.