SOMERSET Park resident, Jasmika Naidoo, was recently named Student of the Year at the recent awards ceremony held by Beama Naidoo School of Music. She was also given an award for being an advanced harmonium student.
The Danville Park Girls’ High School pupil said she’s always had a passion for music and culture.
“I’ve been a music student for about five or six years, but I love playing the harmonium and singing devotional Hindi songs. Guru Beama has really brought out the passion and belief in my abilities and he has pushed me to practice harder. When they called my name to say I’d won the Student of the Year, I was surprised and I was really excited at the same time,” she said.
Jasmika has also participated in the Telegu and Tamil Eisteddfod for many years. The 15-year-old said she felt it was important for children to hold onto their culture.
“Your culture is about who you are and where you come from. If you lose it, you lose the roots and essence of who you are. I hope to continue playing and inspiring youngsters to stay true to themselves. I can make a difference to those around me by giving love and having a positive attitude.”
The Grade 10 pupil is also involved with the Umhlanga Hindu Society and is the lead keyboard player and the manager of the youth band, Anbu Issai, which was launched last year.
