How did you get into opera?
"I was spotted singing outside my classroom in Rarotonga by my English teacher, she then recorded me and sent the recording to several Music departments in New Zealand, and Otago University got back to her. Since then, I have grown to love it so much."
What has been challenging, unexpected or enjoyable during your singing career?
"The genre of opera in itself is challenging, learning a new foreign language, learning how to read music, and the technique to sing operatically. But I am super blessed to have been given this talent and can't wait to see how far this takes me."
What are your goals for the future?
"To make Opera accessible to my Cook Islands people, especially the young talent back home, they too can do this. Also, to sing on all the big stages around the world."
What do you hope to get out of Lexus Song Quest?
"To have made the Semi-Finals has already been life changing for me singing wise. But what I hope to get out of the competition is to grow in knowledge, make connections with peers, and work on areas that could help improve my singing for the better."
Who inspires your practice? Do you have any creative influences or heroes?
"My late great grandparents Mama San and Papa San Ponini. They are my heroes, my biggest influencers and I would not be where I am today because of them."
Anything else you’d like to mention that has shaped your experience in the opera/singing environment?
"Thank you to everyone who has been with me on this journey from day one. My Ponini family I want to thank them the most for they have been my rock during my journey, and I am forever grateful towards them. I go into this competition proud, representing my passion for singing, my family and my homeland, the Cook Islands."
