It was through the cello that young musician Camila Pombo harnessed a source of joy, challenge, and self-expression.

Drawn to its rich, resonant sound, Camila chose the cello, not only because of its uniqueness at her school, but also because of the inspiration she found in fellow student Dilara Yilmaz. Watching Dilara perform sparked something in her. A curiosity that soon turned into a passion. “I felt excited and a little nervous,” she recalled about her first lesson, a feeling many young musicians know well.

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Since then, her journey has been filled with both highs and hurdles. From mastering tricky time signatures to working through moments of frustration, Camila has learned that progress takes patience. When things get tough, she returns to pieces she loves, using them to rebuild confidence and motivation.

One of her favourite songs to play is Somewhere Over the Rainbow – a piece she enjoys for its simplicity and the freedom it gives her to experiment. Her dedication shows in her daily 30-minute practice routine, and in standout moments, like performing at the Catholic Schools Office Festival, where she felt especially proud of her progress, hoping she makes proud the people she looks up to, her teacher, Peta Anne, and her original inspiration, Dilara.

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Her advice to others? Don’t give up. “It’s an incredible decision.” Judging by her journey so far, she’s absolutely right, and she’ll soon be fulfilling her dream of performing in Paris.

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