My name is Freya and I am fundraising to pay for a course with One Hope Project Academy.

Music is essential to the natural existence. You will hear the melodies of birds, the buzzing of crickets and bees, the brushing of the leaves of plants when the wind blows, and most evidently when you hear people singing and writing music.

I have been singing all my life; it has been a way of processing feelings and finding clarity in confusion. About 5/6 years ago I struggled intensely with depression and anxiety, that just couldn't be shaken off. When in those moments, singing was the hardest. But I sung anyway and found peace when I let the words flow out of my heart.

Since the first year COVID was rampant, I started walking on the path of faith in God. As a Christian, Music plays such an integral role in the Worship of God and the daily life of His people. I used to sing for myself, to feel better. Now, I want to sing for love of my Creator, Saviour and Maintainer and to share my love for Him with others.

But where do In start? Although having sung with an audience before: at church and on a cruise ship, I don't have much experience with writing songs, though I write poetry in my own time, I am presently unskilled with developing music.

One day, I came across One Hope Project which ran an advertisement in my Archdiocese's subscription newsletter for an Academy that why were running over 6 months. Open to Catholic Christians, all Christian denominations are welcome in their online school is for "aspiring worship leaders, musicians and songwriters who want to invest in their leadership, grow in their practical gifting in order to serve in their context and go deeper in their journey of faith." My heart jumped at this heaven-inspired opportunity and I decided to apply.

The full cost of the course is £895. Due to circumstances, I am receiving a bursary and so the cost is reduced to £500 to be split in instalments, first being payed on September 30th 2025 and the next January 31st 2026.

I would greatly appreciate any support, whether you are giving 1p or the full £500.

If I have already reach the goal and still have more money coming in, the money will be given either to OHP so that they will be able to support other students, or to the St Vincent de Paul Society (SVP).

With the skills that I learn, they will be utilised to support the young adult group at my local church to deepen their faith in God. Lord God willing, to also making myself available for entertainment at events hosted at my church.

For more information about One Hope Academy please visit - https://www.onehopeproject.co.uk/ohpacademy

Thank you for reading through this story. I pray for all who come across it and gratitude and love fill my heart for you. God bless you.

Pax Christi.