I have recently moved to Perth WA to study certificate 4 in Aboriginal performance through the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts.

The Aboriginal Performance program is a one year, full-time intensive course in acting, dance and singing training. It prepares Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students for entry into theatre, film, television and radio work, or to audition for ongoing, high-level training.

On completion of the course, I will have acquired a knowledge of Indigenous culture in the context of contemporary performance, and will have integrated acting, dance and singing into practical performance skills.

Upon completion, I will be responsive to audition requirements, communication skills and processes necessary to gain meaningful employment and function as a professional artist.

The academy is amazing, so welcoming and nurturing and enables the students to feel supported and acknowledged throughout their training

Tell us about the audition and the interview.

I was required to undertake an interview via phone call, due to living in NSW. The panel were very supportive and motivating. I was nervous at first, but throughout the interview, became very comfortable due to the personality and caring nature of the panel members.

What is life like for you now?

AMAZING. The move from NSW to WA was a massive milestone in my life. I was nervous, anxious and excited at the beginning but the warm welcome, supportive teams and amazing peers I have settled quickly and am enjoying all aspects of the transition and look forward to the training and performing that’s ahead of me

Is it tough being so far from home?

It was tough to begin with, as I have never lived away from family, and so far from home, where face-to-face contact is not available, but I have so much support here it has made the transition easy and comfortable. And I still contact my family each day and will return in the June holidays to visit.

Tell me about your family - parents, brothers and sisters - and where you come in the family?

I have amazing, supportive parents who have supported me through the whole process and I appreciate very much. I am one of 12 children, I have three older siblings and eight younger siblings. I hope to be a role model for my younger siblings and give them inspiration to follow their dreams.

They must be very proud of you.  Has their support helped you in your journey?

My parents and extended family are extremely proud of me and have all been very supportive in my choice to study and move to WA. Without their support, my journey would not have been possible.

How old are you now?

I have just turned 18 in January. I was able to celebrate my 18th with my family and close friends in NSW before my move to WA in February.

What are your ambitions?

My ambitions are to study, learn and focus hard to follow my dreams and accomplish my goals of succeeding in acting. Maybe one day you may see me on TV.

Tell me about your drama teacher at Wauchope High, Mrs Jensen.

Mrs Jensen is an absolute inspiration. She was the motivator behind me applying for the course and assisted me through the whole process. Her belief in me when I doubted myself lifted me up and helped me to be where I am today.

Anything else you would like to add?

Another major support network of mine through the whole process was the Early Links program at Centacare in Port Macquarie. They were able to assist me with funding options, the transition and provide support through every stage to ensure I had a smooth transition and eliminated any barriers that may have prevented me from coming to WA.

The support is still ongoing when needed, even though I’ve moved state. And also HEF (Hastings education funding) who have helped me out with a grant that I appreciate very much.

I would like to thank my family, close friends, Mrs Jensen and Centacare for helping making my dreams become reality and allowing me to undertake this amazing opportunity.

I’ll keep you all posted on my progress and amazing journey.

Congratulations, Kirra, with every best wish for your future.