Busker Millie off to pursue African dream
BUSKER Millie Hopkins has performed on stage at a huge arena and on the streets of Portsmouth.
But now she’s planning to take her music to Africa to help people there.
The 19-year-old, from Bedhampton, beat 10,000 other hopefuls to reach the finals of the Open Mic UK talent competition at the O2 arena in London.
Although she received a great reception from the audience the judges, who included Radio 1 DJ Annie Nightingale, didn’t put her through to the final three.
But Millie hasn’t taken the defeat to heart – as there is another massive challenge ahead of her.
She has days to raise £500 to provide a school in Uganda with stationary and play equipment to take with her when she begins a teaching post there next on Monday.
Millie is taking pens, pencils and instruments over with her. She has been busking in Portsmouth city centre all week to raise last-minute funds.
‘The competition was so much fun and I’m not sad that I didn’t win – being there alongside all the other amazing performers was the prize to me,’ said Millie.
‘It was an incredible experience but now I’m focusing on my three-month teaching placement in Africa. I’m taking my guitar out there and I’m going to start an extra curricular music club.
‘I’ve had to raise £4,000 so far and I’m under by about £400. I’ve been busking every day since and managed to raise £80 which I’m pleased about.’
The school has only basic equipment but that doesn’t worry Chloe, who is confident after singing in front of thousands of people for the talent competition.
To support Millie email mully_pengy@hotmail.com
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Friday 25 May 2012
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