If it wasn’t for her work colleagues, Naomi Billy would not have competed in the LNG’s Got Talent event held at the Plant site, just outside Port Moresby last month.
“At first, I wasn’t going to enter, but my friends and co-workers persuaded me to join the competition,” Naomi said.
That encouragement paid off big time for Naomi, whose performance earned her first place in both the singing and overall talent categories.
Organised by the Project as part of its Finish Strong events held on 16 December, the LNG’s Got Talent competition attracted many talented entrants.
During the audition in November, the judges selected 15 finalists, made up of singers and dancers, who then performed in front of a large audience at the grand finale held at the Big Tent in Camp B. No stranger to music and singing, Naomi’s parents were musicians in the church; and she’s been singing for a long time.
But performing in the camp before many expatriates was something completely new for Naomi, who comes from Central Province.
“This is my first time singing outside my church,” she said. “At first when I went on the stage, In was a bit nervous, because there was such a big crowd; but when the music started, I gained my confidence and really enjoyed it.”
Wining the competition with a Whitney Houston song, I Have Nothing, Naomi took home two trophies, a certificate and cash prizes.
When asked what her performing plans are for the future, Naomi said “I want to continue singing and take part in more competitions.”
Extending sincere thanks to her colleagues and bosses for their encouragement and support, Naomi says performing and winning the talent event has boosted her confidence as a person and a singer.
“If I don’t get a chance to continue on with the Project or other jobs, I know I can always follow my passion for singing.”
Congratulations to Naomi, and thanks to everyone involved for making this event such a huge success, including the organisers and contestants.