Amazing Achievement
We were very pleased to receive an email from Yumi’s parents to share some exciting news - Yumi has been selected as a finalist for the 2025 Kōkako Award by Kiwi Kids Music, the Auckland Philharmonia and NZ Opera, with a song she wrote the lyrics for, composed, played, and sang all by herself, see the announcement below:
Kiwi Kids Music (KKM), in partnership with the Auckland Philharmonia (Akl Phil) and NZ Opera (NZO), is thrilled to announce the Finalists for the 2025 Kōkako Award, for Best Children’s Performance.
This award enriches the already established and cherished annual Aotearoa Children’s Music Awards | Ngā Manu Tīrairaka, nurturing the blossoming talents of our young performers in Aotearoa, New Zealand!
The Kōkako Award is a celebration of the vibrant expressions of our young performers, highlighting the importance of children’s artistic creativity.
Congratulations to our five incredibly talented Finalists
Aiden Gao performing ‘Take Me to The End’ - aged 8 years
Emery Goodwin performing 'Enjoy The Ride’ - aged 10 years
Naledi Mhuka performing ‘Catch Me On My Vibe’ - aged 11 years
Sophie Jack performing ‘New Zealand Memories’ - aged 8 years
Yumi Chen performing ‘Never Back Down’ - aged 9 years
The winners will be announced at a ceremony at Tuning Fork, on June 29th, with awards presented by tamariki from across Aotearoa, with plenty of fun and games for those special guests before the Award ceremony begins!
A HUGE thanks to APRA for their support with the Kōkako Award
We look forward to sharing more details about all our Finalists and the event soon!
