Kaleb Markoliano, an undergraduate student in the Management program at UPH Surabaya Campus, Class of 2022, achieved the honor of winning 2nd place in Teens Star, a spiritual song singing competition organized by the Pentecostal Church in Indonesia (GPdI) East Java. This competition, which involved more than 100 participants, was conducted through selections in each city in East Java. Teens Star selected its participants through several stages.

After advancing to the top 70, Kaleb’s abilities were further tested in the top 40 round. The competition featured judges such as Rachel Angela (Spiritual Song Singer), Anton Muliono Sianipar (Vocal Coach, Conductor & Arranger), Pastor Ruth Yunike Prayitno (Secretary of the GPdI East Java Youth Department), Pastor Paulus Supriono (Vice Chairman of the GPdI East Java Youth Department), and Pastor Victor Rahardjo (Chairman of the GPdI East Java Youth Department). The assessment criteria for this competition included not only the participants’ singing ability and technique but also how they conveyed the song’s message and encouraged the audience to praise God.

Kaleb stated that this was a new and unforgettable experience.

“From Teens Star, I gained many new experiences. I learned a lot from the workshops I attended at Teens Star. I also made many new friends here. For me, this was the first time I sang in front of a large audience and saw that many people care and support me. Initially, I didn’t know anyone, but I ended up building many connections.”

Kaleb expressed that competing with the best representatives from across East Java was a source of pride. He also stated that reaching the final stage was a blessing from God, considering all participants had given their best.

For Kaleb, this competition was different from any he had participated in before. The challenge was not just about singing but also about making the song a blessing to everyone who listened. When singing, there should not be too much improvisation, as it could obscure the song’s message and meaning.

Kaleb, who is also the Vocal Coordinator in the UPHoria Musica Student Activity Unit, hopes his achievement will inspire and motivate his friends in the organization to develop their talents and skills.

“Don’t be afraid to try something new. Develop the talents that God has given. Don’t keep them hidden,” he concluded.

Kaleb, who will continue his role and responsibilities in the Student Executive Board 2024/2025, also expressed his desire to help fellow students further develop their potential through student organizational activities.

“God has given us so much potential. We must use all the abilities God has given to serve others and glorify God’s name.”

Through student organizations, students’ potential and talents will be honed and developed further. UPH always supports students in training themselves and growing according to their talents and interests. More than that, UPH encourages students not only to grow but also to impact others and the wider community (YA).