Kia Wasley’s voice launched Australia’s first mobile recording studio for people with disabilities in Mullumbimby on Thursday morning at local disability services provider RED Inc.
‘I’ve been singing in the shower for a while but this is the first time I’ve done it publicly,’ said Kia as she prepared to record her song.
‘I wrote the song myself. It is about disability and bullying. It talks about how you might feel different and don’t belong in this world. What I am saying is that you’re not alone. I know this because I’ve experienced this myself. I’ve had people do things like put compost on my head.’
The song will form part of the soundtrack for a movie that RED Inc are making on the topic of disability and bullying.
‘This is going to give our young people an opportunity to realise their dreams,’ said Jenny London the special projects manger.
‘It is a wonderful way to build self confidence and self esteem.’
Funding for the studio was provided by the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation, who provide grants of more than $1.5m a year throughout Australia.
‘Singing is my therapy if I feel down,’ said Kia.
‘I listen and sing, and I want to have this as part of my life. The mobile recording studio means that it comes to me. It is easy and cheaper and a lot less stress. It means I can record in a familiar environment.’
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