Nong Fiat’s online application, a two-minute video, was accepted only on Sept 12, and Nong Fiat was not expecting to travel to London until November.
However, in a surprisingly quick move, Nong Fiat was called to perform a live audition on Sept 14.
Luckily, Nong Fiat had applied for her visa early, as she hoped to travel to the UK sometime before November. Her visa was approved on Sept 12, and she made haste to London in time to make her audition.
“I was worried I wouldn’t make it, but luckily my visa was processed by the afternoon of Sept 12. With my audition scheduled for Sept 14, I flew to London right after school on Friday.” Nong Fiat explained.
Khun Fu, her father, explained that Nong Fiat not only passed the first round but was also immediately sent to the second round on the same day.
“Nong Fiat did well in both rounds. She may have been a little nervous, but I saw she did great,” he said.
Now that Nong Fiat has completed her second round, performing in a ‘ film room’ with judges present, she is now waiting for the next round on stage.
“The results will be announced at the beginning of next year, so let’s cheer her on as we watch this talented Thai kid shine on the global stage!” he father said excitedly.
For Nong Fiat, getting to perform in the original ‘Got Talent’ show will mark a milestone in her career.
“If I get on this show, it will change my life. It’s a world-class show. If I can pass the audition and get to record the show, I will achieve a key goal,” she said.
Unlike the US version of the international talent show franchise, now with spin-offs in 89 countries, the original British version created by Simon Cowell ‒ just like the Thai version ‘Thailand’s Got Talent’ ‒ allows foreigners to enter.
Nong Fiat recently returned to Phuket from a tour to Canada, hot on the heels of her winning the Pop Vocal 14- to 17-year-old category in live stage performance contest held as part of the Concurso Internacional ‘Aire Nuevo’ international music festival on the outskirts of Barcelona.
Nong Fiat won the award with her female rock version of ‘The Final Countdown’ by rock band Europe, originally released in 1986.
“My journey through Canada has been incredibly fun, exciting and challenging. It was my second time there, and it felt just as exciting as my first time in Spain,” Nong Fiat recounted.
“It was overwhelming that I’ve connected with more international fans, and more people are recognising my name and talent. I would love to visit Japan and Switzerland; they are the top countries on my travel list,” she added.
Now back in Phuket, Nong Fiat has her sights set on achieving higher accolades.
“My ultimate goal is to become a famous singer and earn enough money so that my parents no longer have to work,” Nong Fiat told The Phuket News.
“Even reaching this point hasn’t been easy. There have been tiring and discouraging moments. However, when I’m on stage and see the audience smiling and happy, it makes it all worth it,” she said.
Still just a teenager, young Nong Fiat has already learned the importance of practice and dedication. “I practice every day, even after school, dedicating at least two hours daily to it,” she said.
“I started playing the guitar three years ago, though I’ve been singing since I was seven. At first, it was challenging to play the guitar and sing simultaneously, but practice makes perfect, I’ve improved over time. Now, I truly enjoy both,” she smiled.
Made famous by her performances at the Lard Yai Walking Street Market in Phuket Town, and now performing at many other events across the island, Nong Fiat stays true to her roots.
“I still play live performances at the market and on the streets nearly every day. On school nights, I play for just an hour between 7pm and 8pm, but on Friday and Saturday nights, I stay out until 9 pm,” she explained.
LOOKING FORWARD
“I don’t consider myself fully successful yet, but I’ve achieved a level of success that allows me to take the next step in my singing career,” Nong Fiat said modestly.
“I’m currently preparing my new single, which we finished recording one month ago in Sweden. It will be released soon, so please stay tuned for it.
“I recently completed recording another two songs in Thailand and I am excited about releasing more original music in the future,” Nong Fiat explained.
In addition to writing original songs, Nong Fiat is also expanding her music abilities. “I’ve recently started learning new instruments, like the violin and a bit of piano, and I’m really enjoying the experience,” she said.
“I see myself appearing on shows as a singer, going on concert tours, and keep growing as an artist,” she added.
A surprise for most fans is that Nong Fiat looks to the late, great Michael Jackson as one of her key inspirational figures. “I admire his style and the way he sings,” she said.
“I’m also inspired by a performance on the Thai TV show Mask Singer, where Black Crow Mask did an unforgettable cover of ’Zombie’. His unique voice made it one of the best covers I’ve ever heard, and it truly inspired me,” Nong Fiat added.
“My dad is also a musician, and I believe his support and encouragement have played a big role in shaping who I am today.”
Nong Fiat hopes other youngsters also find inspiration to pursue their dreams.
“I want to tell all the youngsters with dreams: pursue whatever you aspire to. I also want to thank everyone in Phuket who has helped me reach this point and given me the opportunity to perform.
“A heartfelt thanks to all the kind supporters and fans who always encourage me,” Nong Fiat said.
Follow Nong Fiat’s journey and successes through her ’Queen on Street’ Facebook page and Instagram page, and check out her latest songs and performances at her ’Queen on Street’ YouTube channel.