Reaching for the Stars!

"I am Merlia de Ridder (15) and very excited I have been selected to represent New Zealand at the 21st World Championships of Performing Arts in Los Angeles, California!!! (http://www.wcopa.com)

This is the only international meet of its kind annually held in Hollywood, California, the entertainment capital of the world. Participants from over 50 countries are invited to compete at this prestigious event.

I will be leaving with Team New Zealand on the 28th of June 2017 for 2 weeks filled with educational seminars, a boot camp and the world-championship competitions.

This is a very special opportunity for me to compete internationally and to step into my dream to become a professional singer!

The costs for my airline ticket, accommodation, entry fees, seminars, team uniform and taxes etc. amount to +$6.500 NZD per contestant. Your financial support (sponsorship, donation, financial assistance) is asked and welcomed to help me reach my goals and make my dream come true!

Music has been one of the most important joys in my life since I was little. To sing and make music lifts me up, makes me feel free and is a beautiful way to express myself. With my voice I want to reach out to other people to touch and inspire them."

As being part of a community Merlia wants to bring music in the lives of other children too. She decided to give One dollar of every 10 dollars she receives via her Givealittle page to El Sistema, Toi Akorangi, in Whangarei – who work with children to build their sense of place, their confidence and their aspirations through inspired music programmes. (www.sistemawhangarei.org.nz).

Please help. Thank you for believing in New Zealand talent. Your financial assistance is greatly appreciated!