‘Believe in yourself’: Local American Idol contestant inspires students to chase dreams

CHALROTTE — Local American Idol contestant Nailyah Serenity is giving back to students in Charlotte.

Serenity returned to Northwest School of the Arts this week after making it to the Top 20.

She said she wanted to inspire students, as well as, share some advice to students who are in the same position she was not too long ago.

“When I was younger, I felt like I was not good at being present. I was always like ‘Oh my gosh, when am I gonna get a Grammy? When am I gonna be Beyonce?’ Like I don’t want to go to school. And because of that, I missed out on the beauty of this part of life,” Serenity explained.

As she pushes forward with her dreams of making music and performing, she told Channel 9 that he was excited and grateful to be back in her hometown.

“It’s gonna sound so cliché but I really want to let the kids know that all you have to do is be yourself and believe in yourself,” Serenity said.

And students expressed gratitude for the thoughtful advice.

“I’m so happy it was a great experience and hearing her say just be yourself,” student Nyla said. She is so inspiring. If she can do it, than anyone can. Even coming from Charlotte.”

VIDEO: Charlotte native receives golden ticket after American Idol audition

Charlotte native receives golden ticket after American Idol audition

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