Seventeen-year-old Vasareena Tamala, originally from Vailele and Taga, Samoa, has made her mark in Australia by winning two major awards at the Mildura Eisteddfod singing competition this month.
Competing in the 13–17 age group, Vasareena took out first place in the Modern Religious category with her performance of “Rise Up” by Andra Day. She also placed second in the Jazz category, singing “Dream a Little Dream of Me” by Mama Cass.
Before moving to Australia, Vasareena was an active member of the Nuu Seventh Day Adventist Church choir and praise team in Samoa. She also performed with a local gospel group, The Young Messengers.
“This was the best moment of my life,” she told Samoa Newshub.
“I never competed in singing contests back home. I was always scared I wasn’t good enough. But being part of this competition gave me the courage to believe in myself.”
She credited her success to the support of her family and faith, saying her sisters are all singers and her parents, Maota and Mafi Tamala, have always encouraged her.
“I’m grateful to God for this opportunity to grow in something I’ve loved since I was little.”
Now a student at Mildura Senior College, Vasareena’s passion and courage have opened new doors, and she says this is only the beginning.
