Music is how I express myself; it makes me feel safe, and I can’t imagine a life without it. – Lani*
When Lani was little, we faced a challenge I never expected. Due to a misdiagnosis, she tragically lost 80% of her hearing. Between the ages of one and four, she couldn’t speak – but we found another way to connect. Melodies and rhythms became the bridge between Lani, me and the world around her – it was her language. As her hearing slowly recovered, it was music that helped her to speak.
Starting school was another hurdle. Lani found it difficult to settle in, so I made the decision to move her to La Perouse Public School. At La Perouse, she entered an environment where, like two in three Australian public primary schools, classroom music lessons are not a given. That’s where the Australian Children’s Music Foundation (ACMF) stepped in, providing free, long-term weekly music programs, ensuring that children like Lani don’t miss out on the benefits of music education. At first, things were hard. Her attendance was low, and she didn’t have a lot of confidence. But when Lani met Rachel, the school’s ACMF music teacher, everything started to change. Rachel encouraged her to join the school choir, the drumming group, and eventually school musicals. Music gave Lani a way to express herself – and slowly, she began to shine.
Her confidence grew, her attendance improved. Soon, Lani became a leader – one of the school’s top public speakers, and a house captain. Lani always says; “Music is how I express myself; it makes me feel safe, and I can’t imagine a life without it.”
Today, Lani is preparing to sing at ACMF’s 2025 Gala Event and has even secured a scholarship at a high school of her choice, thanks to her musical talent. She’s still connected to Rachel and continues to find strength through music. Watching her now, I know ACMF didn’t just help her heal – it gave her back her future. As her mother, I’m beyond grateful.
*From her mother’s perspective
