Local Manga and other Creative Talent to Shine at rAge Expo 2024!

Local Manga and other Creative Talent to Shine at rAge Expo 2024!

rAge Expo  is excited to announce that the talented Shaylee van Oostrom, a 16-year-old self-taught artist based in Kempton Park, will be at this year’s event showcasing her recently published debut manga-inspired comic book, ‘Demon Force’ through BK Publishing.

“rAge has always been about growing the local gaming sector and bringing the best that is gaming, fandom and tech to our visitors,” says Michael James, Senior Project Manager, rAge.

Shaylee began her creative journey by doodling and quickly progressed to become a fully-fledged comic author with the guidance and support of BK Publishing. 

“I started drawing as a way to express my imagination. Watching My Hero Academia inspired me to bring my characters and stories to life. Demon Force’ is a thrilling tale of heroism. It follows a boy who, alongside his friends, embarks on a heroic journey, training at a school designed to nurture future heroes. However, his brother, a force of evil, continually interferes with his progress”, says Shaylee.

Shaylee’s mother and father, share their pride in watching their daughter pursue her passion. “It has been incredible to watch Shaylee’s determination grow. As her parents, our role has been to encourage her and give her the ‘oomph’ to go for it. We’ve supported her as much as we can, but her talent and perseverance are what really stand out.”

She is continuing her collaboration with BK Publishing to develop the series further and has already completed the next two comics in the ‘Demon Force’ series. However, she has set up a BackaBuddy campaign to raise funds for editing and publishing these volumes as well as to support her post-school studies.

Looking ahead to the rAge Expo, Shaylee expressed her excitement: “I’m really looking forward to showcasing my work and connecting with people who love drawing, animation, and comics as much as I do. Being part of rAge is a dream come true.”

Fans and attendees can look forward to meeting Shaylee and exploring her unique world of manga-inspired heroes and villains at the rAge Expo. Shaylee will be selling signed copies of her comic and is also preparing special merchandise, including printed caps of ‘Demon Force’ to sell. She will be at the BK Publishing stand in Hall 9 during the entire rAge Expo.

Besides Shaylee, rAge is hosting well over 40 other talented creatives in the Artist Alley, as well as on the Afro Geek stand. Expect more announcements soon on this.