Author: Jaya Khoobsurat

I’ve been so so very grateful for the chance to study again – I chose to do a short (3.5 month) course at UniSA in film & television production to fill the gaps of my understandings, and pull me through this terrible year of Covid lockdowns and losses. Just a few weeks remain – send me a few prayers, as I must still finalise all the tasks. I’m so so thankful that through one of the worst years, I have had a single blessing of studies to keep me on track, during one of the planets toughest times – lockdowns, unemployment, businesses collapsing, suicides… and for me, a series of hugely stressful/challenging house moves directly due to the Covid consequences.

Lets just say, my dearest friends and cherished (close and extended) family have been my saviour; with studies and Smule singing keeping me stable and sane during the most crazy ‘annus horrobillus’. To all who know me and have assisted, my gratitude is unchecked, as without your love and support, this year would have done me over in a few different ways if not for the kindness and practical support I have received – not so much from ‘many’ people, but the right few, who have genuinely cared.

I have spent my time studying with some of Australia’s most seasoned film and tv professionals, and I am so so grateful for the opportunity to ingest their practical knowledge. Now, I must put all I have been blessed to learn, into practice.

Singing also, has been the nectar and sweetness to an otherwise hugely difficult year – thank goodness, for musicians, whose love, care and sheer talents, inspire me always, to stretch for the stars – too many people to thank one by one – as I am just so grateful for having sung with them, to save my own sanity.

I will just end this post with a few of my favourite solo and duet songs, as ever, with the intention to brighten your day – wherever you are in the world.

I am actually feeling quite emotional – so sad to soon be leaving Uni, the safe place of inquisitiveness and learning… thank you to all my Mentors: Michael McMahon and Sandy Cameron; Wilson Main who selected my suitability; and the very gracious and lovely Kathy McIntyre – all who were incredibly patient with my incessant questions… the many guest lecturers from all over Australia and the world (Zoom calls are amazing); and of course, my academic peers – all the talented and vibrant younger students who gave me so many insights into their own worlds. May we all find our feet, and, be blessed into the future.