The curtains may have fallen on the latest season of Popstars, but the reality TV show will forever be etched in the memory of ACG Strathallan’s Christy Sahota.
The Year 13 student was one of the hundreds of talented hopefuls who auditioned for the series. And despite having a serious throat infection, she sailed through the preliminary heats, cementing her place among the top 24 contestants.
Although Christy may not have walked away with the $100,000 cash prize, she certainly rose to the challenge and learnt a lot about herself in the process.
“It was amazing to be surrounded by a group of people who all share the same goals,” says the gifted musician.
“I loved meeting so many new people, and I learnt a lot from all the other contestants. It was also a great chance to find out more about what the music and television industries are really like!”
It was a gruelling, high-pressure environment, but the chance to hone her singing and song writing abilities made the experience worth every moment.
“Performing in Popstars really helped me improve my song writing skills. I’ve been singing ever since I was three and have been writing songs off and on throughout my life, although a lot more lately. I love being able to express my emotions, inspire and connect with people through my music.
“Early on in the show, I put a lot of pressure on myself because I thought Popstars was my only chance to shine. However, the experience made me realise that it was just one opportunity – there will be many more in the future. I know that music is something I will never stop loving and never give up on.”
A familiar voice at numerous school assemblies and events, Christy has sung in front of politicians and at the Miss New Zealand Punjab and Miss New Zealand India competitions. While she cites making it onto Popstars as one of her greatest musical achievements, she says her favourite performance was singing a Māori farewell song, Now is the Hour, for ACG Strathallan’s former principal Mr Kirkham.
Christy is more than just an exceptional voice though. She also plays the piano, the guitar and is learning the drums, and next year she plans to study music at a tertiary level. Thanks to her years at ACG Strathallan, and the school’s outstanding music programme, she has laid the ideal foundation for musical success.
“Throughout the years, ACG Strathallan has provided me with many musical opportunities, which I am extremely grateful for. I enjoy performing so much – I just can’t get enough of it!”
For additional profiles and articles on the success of our students at ACG Strathallan, please visit: Groove is in the Heart and Transformative Ghana trip inspires ACG alumna
