In search of hidden gems, Taylor's American Degree Transfer Program (ADTP) hosted a virtual talent competition on November 12th in conjunction with Taylor's ADTP 25th Anniversary Celebration. Hidden talents were revealed, and visible ones were displayed. Students from high schools, private universities, and public universities from all over Malaysia registered for the competition. With over a hundred people watching the contest’s grand finale, it felt like one of those talent shows on television.
To start the night, Ms. Prema Ponnudurai, Head of Department, Department of Liberal Arts and Humanities, School of Liberal Arts and Sciences commenced the competition with her opening speech. It was followed by the introduction of our talented judges, who were all Taylor’s ADTP alumni. The panel comprised of Mr. Ray Mak, a sensational YouTube content creator who showcased his talents on his piano, followed by Mr. Zareef Sein, a gifted singer who was a Vokal Mania contestant and is also signed by Warner Music Malaysia, and lastly, Mr. Jared Ng, a dazzling ballroom dancer who participated in many collegiate and national competitions.
The pinnacle of the event was the video showcasing performances of the eight finalists. A wide range of talents was displayed, including dancing, singing, playing musical instruments, and a unique all-in-one performance called live looping. The first contestant showcased the only ADTP participant, Aliya Nabila Binti Khairul Azmee, who was selected as a finalist in this competitive competition. The subsequent finalists showcased their talents, and the audience enthusiastically cheered for each of them in the Zoom chat box, revealing the crowd's favourite. The participants were not the only ones who boasted their abilities. While waiting for votes to be cast, our judges who were highlighted as being exceptionally talented, had the opportunity to shine and showcase their talents on screen.
Zareen and Jared both presented video showcases, but there was a surprise twist in the form of a live piano performance by Ray Mak, who covered a song by the popular K-Pop boyband BTS. After the judges' outstanding performances, the closing remarks were given by Dr. Loh Kah Heng, Program Director of Taylor's American Degree Transfer Program, to wrap up the evening's events. The announcement of the ADTP Got Talent winners was the event's climax after the video showcase performances.
With five consolation prize winners, the remaining three had to compete for the grand prize. Amber Wang Mei Qi, who performed in the dance category, was named the second runner-up. Joanne Wong Tze Ling, another dancer, was named first runner-up. The title of ADP Got Talent champion was awarded to Isabelle Sisoski Chan Huesere, who performed a live looping cover. The Champion has indicated her intention to enroll and study at Taylor’s ADTP after completion of her high school study. With that, the event came to a close, leaving everyone satisfied.
