Kangan IEC graduate Fatai Veamatahau makes top 12 on The Voice

A big congratulations to one of the IEC's most talented graduates, Fatai Veamatahau, for making it as a top 12 finalist on Channel 9's The Voice.

Fatai is of Tongan descent, but has lived her whole life in Australia. Her love of music began in church, where her father was the choir conductor. Fatai sang with her father at major events such as the opening of Federation Square.

She's also an accomplished solo artist - she writes, composes and records her own material. Music Coordinator Michael Burke said that Fatai always had a great attitude as a student and he could see future success in her. "As her guitar teacher, Fatai was a pleasure to teach in 2011," he said. "She had a great attitude, was always willing to learn and was also a great support to our other Music students. She joined the courses as a singer who played the guitar but it was her ability as a songwriter that really stood out for me. She was always pushing the boundaries and writing new melodies which were very inspiring for all our students."

When asked if he saw potential in her, Michael was quick to point out Fatai's natural talents. "I knew I saw a star in Fatai the day she auditioned in mid-2011. She performed one of her original songs, 'I wonder' which is still one of my favourite songs. I was so impressed at how she had written this song and the tender age of 16. "I got Fatai involved in as many performances through the IEC's Music program to expose her raw talent and last year she graduated from our Certificate II in Music course. She is now being exposed to the entire nation and we are very proud of her.

I wish her all the very best for the future and when she becomes famous, we'll be able to say, we were part of her success!" The Voice judge Seal chose to turn his chair around and have Fatai as part of his team, as he was captured by her beautiful voice. She's gone from strength to strength after that captivating moment; enthralling Australia with her beautiful voice. Fatai recently performed for Kangan Institute at the 2012 Flower and Garden show.

She's a Certificate II in Music Industry (IEC) graduate. This is what she had to say about her time with us: "The Certificate II in Music Industry at Kangan Institute is a great foundation course. It helps with gaining pathways to studying at a higher level or even with the knowledge to enter the industry.

I'd definitely recommend the course -- great teachers, great students and a great vibe. It's an honour to have the opportunity to sing at the 2012 Flower and Garden Show today!" We wish Fatai all the very best of luck on the show and look forward to seeing her blossom with subsequent success.