When Jessie Hillel was declared the Runner-Up at the finale of the second series of New Zealand’s got talent in December last year, very few were surprised, for the 11-year-old girl from Wellington has been a singing sensation since her formative years.
She released her debut album on April 26, a major achievement for a minor girl, but again, it was no surprise because her singing prowess has been heard in many parts of the world, including China, where she performed for CCTV, the biggest television network in that country.
Jessie is an ambassador for Make-A-Wish New Zealand.
“Appearing on television, especially at the New Zealand contest was great fun,” Jessie recalled, adding, “the rehearsals were hectic and the competition was very challenging.”
Family motivation
As the story of her success made news all over India including her home state of Kerala, Jessie became a star overnight.
“I have been motivated to take to singing from my early years. My parents and sister encourage me to participate in singing competitions at school. While I am aware that I have a lot more to achieve, I am thrilled that I was selected as a Runner-Up at ‘New Zealand’s Got Talent’ show,” she said.
She belongs to a family of music lovers. Her parents are connected with the computer world), while her 16-year-old elder sister is a budding pianist.
Other winners
Fifteen-year-old singer and songwriter Clara van Wel from Blenheim won the second series of New Zealand’s Got Talent, while 17-year-old singer and songwriter Evan Sinton of Auckland took the third place.
Breakfast weather presenter Tamati Coffey hosted the show, whose panel of judges comprised supermodel Rachel Hunter, Opshop singer-songwriter Jason Kerrison and former UB40 lead singer Ali Campbell.
Photo :
Jessie Hillel
