Sunrise fell in love with performing when she was in Year 2.
“I felt the most validation when I was singing,” she remembers, “and teachers and the other students would say, ‘Wow, you’re really good’.”
“Sometimes, even my mum helped me with my singing – it was a way that I could feel like I was appreciated.”
Outside of this creative escape, Sunrise had a tough upbringing. She lived with her grandparents throughout her teenage years before moving into her own place in her final year of high school.
“My main challenge when I applied for the scholarship was trying to navigate my financial independence and my mental health,” Sunrise says about that time in her life.
She was 17 years old and working every afternoon and weekend to support herself. At the same time, she was working towards an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR).
“I put a lot of pressure on myself to do well in the HSC because I associated getting into university with financial security and a path to a better life,” she says.
Luckily, Sunrise had wonderful teachers – who taught her that her grades did not determine her value.
“They gave me such unconditional support and provided the stability that I didn’t have at home,” she explains.
It was one of these teachers who recommended Sunrise for the Youth Off The Streets National Scholarship Program and supported her application.
Sunrise hoped the scholarship would help cover university costs, where she planned to study Speech and Hearing Sciences and Psychology.
“Speech and Hearing Sciences didn’t seem that far removed from music to me, since the voice plays such a big role in both,” she says.
“Plus, Psychology and singing are all about releasing emotions and bonding with others through words and feelings.”
Around this time, Sunrise auditioned for The Voice Australia and turned two chairs. She joined Jessica Mauboy’s team before leaving the series.
“Growing up, I thought that music wasn’t an option for me. I considered it a hobby, not a career,” Sunrise recalls.
But after appearing on The Voice, she says, “I realised how crucial music was to my identity and how empty I’d feel without it.”
Sunrise’s National Scholarship Program application was successful, and she was soon invited to sing at a Youth Off The Streets awards ceremony.
Here, the aspiring singer-songwriter met Youth Off The Streets Chairperson and Talent Development Project (TDP) CEO Anne Fitzgerald. Impressed by her performance, Anne recommended Sunrise for the TDP.
“I’ve been loving the TDP. It’s given me the knowledge and tools I need to go about things as an artist,” Sunrise says.
Sunrise was supported by the Youth Off The Streets scholarships team, who liaised with the program to secure her place.
“The TDP holds workshops every month – and a month in advance, they’ll tell you what to prepare for the next workshop,” Sunrise explains.
“For example, you might have to write an original song inspired by a painting in a gallery.
“Then, you perform for the class and receive constructive criticism. Often, industry professionals and special guests come in and give feedback.”
Although Sunrise had written original songs before, the TDP is giving her the opportunity to record and release her music.
“I’m planning on releasing a few singles, and ultimately, I would love to put together an album.”
Sunrise says the National Scholarship Program has helped her with the creative arts.
She’s been able to afford dance classes, a backpack and stationery for uni, and costumes for her TDP performances.
Sunrise also appreciates the guidance she has received from her mentor, Elizabeth – who supports her creative endeavours and once completed a similar degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences.
“Although our schedules have limited our face-to-face interactions, we’re only a text message away from each other,” Elizabeth says.
“Sunrise is an exceptionally talented young woman. I’ve seen her blossom in a short period of time, and I’m excited to witness her continued success and development.”
When we spoke to Sunrise, she was preparing for Sentiments – a requirement of the TDP and her first-ever headline concert.
“I’m so excited for the show. I feel like I’m working non-stop, but I’m still motivated to keep rehearsing and do everything I need to do to bring Sentiments together behind the scenes,” she says.
“When I’m performing, I realise how much of an impact I can have on people,” she continues.
“I see people looking at me instead of looking elsewhere – and it touches my heart to know that they’re interested enough to listen to me and relate to my songs.”