A young adult from Forrestdale has been recognised for her talents and determination in the field of music, being awarded with a prestigious statewide award.
Holly Anderson, 18, was presented with the Katie O’Donnell Young Achiever of the Year Award at Variety WA’s Heart Scholarship ceremony earlier this month.
Miss Anderson said her passion for music began since childhood, with her family supporting her dreams.
“Ever since the first day I could speak, I’ve been singing,” she said.
“My primary school years saw me take on piano lessons, sing in school and community choirs, perform in musicals, and learn classical guitar.
“High school provided even more opportunities to develop my love for music.
“Some of my fondest memories from these years are of my time in the Australian Girls Choir (AGC), where getting to sing and learn with likeminded girls each week really helped grow my confidence and musicianship skills.”
Through her involvement with AGC, Miss Anderson was able to perform in both national and international tours, on stage in France, Switzerland and Singapore.
“Singing has always been a big part of my life and has shaped who I am today, and I want to carry this passion into the next chapters of my life,” Miss Anderson said.
“Pursuing a love for the performing arts comes at a high expense, and the Variety Heart Scholarship has allowed me to take lessons and performance opportunities I would otherwise not be able to afford.
“My goal is to become an actor and perform in professional musical theatre productions, whether this be around Australia or around the world.
“It is my dream to be able to combine my childhood love for music and drama and turn
this into a career where I can tell stories and bring joy to audiences alongside other likeminded performers who share this same passion.”
The Variety WA Awards were presented to disadvantaged youth who were living with disabilities, chronic health conditions, or struggling financially.
Gifted and talented students, like Miss Anderson, who were successful in the scholarships, received funding to cover the costs of their extracurricular activities.
For Miss Anderson, this covered the cost of one year of high-level singing lessons.
She has been preparing her audition for the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA).
“Semester two will see me preparing my audition for the Music Theatre courses at WAAPA, as I believe studying there will equip me with experience and the industry skills I’ll need to achieve my goals,” Miss Anderson said.
Applications for 2026 scholarships and awards open on September 19.
