Eastridge matric pupil Hannah Kilowan selected for South African Youth Choir tour to France, seeks funding

An Eastridge matric pupil is set to represent South Africa on an international stage after being selected to tour France with the South African Youth Choir—but she still needs financial support to make the trip a reality.

Hannah Kilowan, 17, a matric pupil at Cedar High School of Arts in Rocklands, was chosen as part of an 18-member ensemble.

Phil Robinson, choral director of the South African Youth Choir, said Hannah stood out during the selection process.

“There must be a good blend of voices in the group, and Hannah stood out, even though she is young. Her alto voice, experience,e and personality all contribute to the spirit of the choir. I saw her perform at Artscape and knew she had something special,” he said.

Hannah joined the choir in September last year and was still new when the opportunity to travel to France arose.

“They saw potential in me. I was new to the choir, but I felt this must be for a reason,” she said.

The choir will depart on Tuesday, February 24, travelling through Dubai before heading to the town of Sées for a gospel festival where they will perform as guest artists and host workshops with local choirs. In March, they will spend a short time in Paris before returning home on Monday, March 3.

Mr Robinson, who will accompany the group, said the choir regularly performs on international stages and has built a strong reputation worldwide. Among its achievements are four consecutive “Best Youth Choir” titles at the ATKV Animato International Choral Competition and international recognition following a cultural exchange tour to the United States.

Hannah said the excitement of representing South Africa was followed by the reality of the costs involved. The trip costs R25 000, and she is still short of R17 000.

She said she has begun fundraising through corporate events and community support.

Her father, Jason Kilowan, said the family is proud of her dedication and talent.

“My wife Shan-lynn and I are very supportive of her. When Hannah is home, she is always singing, even while doing chores. Her passion is musical theatre and live performance,” he said.

Cedar High School of Arts principal Belinda Groeneveldt recalled meeting Hannah when she was in Grade 8.

“She was shy and quiet, but she had a clear vision for herself. She once said, ‘I don’t want to be a drop in the ocean, I want to be a tsunami.’ We are very proud of her,” she said.

Hannah said the support from her family, friends, and school has helped her through the journey.

“Having a strong support system, even when you doubt yourself, and trusting God through the process has helped me. My family, friends, and school have been behind me all the way,” she said.

For more information or to assist with her fundraising, contact her father, Jason Kilowan, on 082 727 9869.

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