The AIM Talent Awards 2024, held on the evening of September 19 at the Bryan Brown Theatre in Bankstown, was a monumental celebration of Australia’s vibrant multicultural talent. Organised by the AIM Association, this sold-out event attracted a diverse audience of around 300 guests, all eager to witness an eclectic mix of performances, from powerful vocal displays to traditional music that highlighted the richness of various cultural heritages.
The evening was hosted by Carol Ferrone, a well-known media personality celebrated for her roles on Australian television. In her opening remarks, Carol set the tone for the evening by acknowledging the significance of the event, expressing her admiration for the talented individuals and the community spirit that underpinned the Awards. The event began with a traditional Welcome to Country performed by Uncle John Dickson, honouring Australia’s Indigenous heritage and paying respect to the land on which the event was held.
The list of dignitaries in attendance further underscored the importance of the night. Among them were prominent political figures including The Hon Mark Coure MP, Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism, Jobs, Industry, Innovation, Science, and Technology; The Hon Lynda Voltz MP, Member for Auburn; Clr. Bilal El Hayek, Mayor of Canterbury Bankstown, and Clrs. Chris Cahill, David Walsch, Laura Cowell, and Sreeni Pillamari . Their presence signified strong support from the community and government for initiatives that celebrate multiculturalism and the arts.
The evening’s programme was packed with exceptional performances, each showcasing the immense talent of the contestants. The competition featured a diverse mix of acts, including solo musicians, bands, dancers, and performers whose unique styles reflected their cultural backgrounds. Lachy Winter, a professional drummer, kicked off the night with a dynamic display of rhythm that set the energy high from the outset. His years of experience playing with renowned musicians both in Australia and internationally were evident in his effortless performance.
Another standout was Nahida Baz, a Lebanese-born singer who, despite her origins, chose to perform an Egyptian song, captivating the audience with her powerful voice and emotional connection to the music. Her performance was a testament to the transcultural nature of the event, where artists embraced and celebrated different aspects of the diverse cultural tapestry of Australia.
In third place was Abalenga, a group of five talented women who brought the sounds of Colombia’s Caribbean coast to the stage. Their Afro-Latino rhythms and traditional instruments created a captivating and energetic performance, blending the Indigenous and African musical traditions of Colombia with a modern twist. The group’s performance was a vivid representation of how traditional music can transcend boundaries and connect with audiences from all walks of life.
Second place went to Joe Ramen, a one-man band known for his unique fusion of bluegrass rhythms and street performances. Originally from the United States and raised in Malaysia, Joe’s eclectic background was reflected in his music, which seamlessly blended traditional bluegrass with modern influences. His energetic performance, complete with harmonica and a drum kit, earned him a strong reception from both the audience and judges.
But the highlight of the night was undoubtedly the winning performance by 17-year-old Keira Blackmore. A multi-talented performer from Peakhurst, Keira’s stunning rendition of the classic ABBA song The Winner Takes it All earned her the top spot in the competition. Her powerful vocals and commanding stage presence left a lasting impression on both the judges and the audience. Having been involved in over 16 musical theatre productions, including iconic roles in Mamma Mia, Frozen Jr., and Beauty and the Beast Jr., Keira’s experience and talent shone through, making her a deserving winner.
The judging panel, made up of esteemed professionals from various industries, played a crucial role in evaluating the performances. The panel included philanthropist and socialite Nissy Mattar, Alive 90.5 FM Chairman Andsley Dennis, Mrs. Universe Australia Charity Queen and businesswoman Sophia Sarkis, talent agent Alexy Francis, and Miss Charity Australia Karenza De Leon. Throughout the evening, the judges were asked to share their insights into what they looked for in a winning performance. Their combined expertise and experience in fields ranging from performing arts to community radio ensured a well-rounded and fair evaluation of the contestants.
Between performances, the audience was treated to additional entertainment, including a high-energy beatboxing set from Australian Idol star Joel Turner. His unique blend of hip-hop, rap, and acoustic melodies was a highlight of the evening, earning him an enthusiastic response from the audience.
The night concluded with the highly anticipated announcement of the winners. Carol Ferrone invited all the participants on stage for the grand finale, where Keira Blackmore was crowned the winner, followed by Joe Ramen in second place, and Abalenga in third. Each of the winners was met with resounding applause as they posed for photographs and received their awards, marking the culmination of a truly unforgettable evening.
The AIM Talent Awards not only provided a platform for performers to showcase their skills but also highlighted the importance of multiculturalism in fostering a vibrant and inclusive arts community. With the support of partners such as Bankstown RSL, Multicultural NSW, the Australian Lebanese Cultural Union, and media partner Oz Arab Media, the event demonstrated how cultural diversity can be celebrated and shared through the universal language of music and performance. The night was a triumph, celebrating talent, culture, and community in the heart of Bankstown.
