Shanti Bhavan’s Better Tomorrow Scholarship Winner: Supriya
Each year Broadway for Arts Education awards one outstanding graduate a $1,000 scholarship toward their higher education through the Better Tomorrow Scholarship Fund. The “Better Tomorrow” program supports students through scholarships and professional mentorship, helping them pursue college and other educational opportunities. BAE believes that arts education empowers young people by building social awareness, leadership, and strong performance skills.
This year’s recipient, Supriya, has been a standout leader in the Shanti Bhavan choir since 8th grade. Her unwavering dedication to music, her peers, and the values of BAE has left a lasting impact on our community. From guiding her classmates to helping the choir flourish, Supriya has shown what it means to lead with heart and purpose. We are so proud of her growth and thrilled to support her journey. Please read on to hear Supriya’s reflections on her journey with BAE, and how music has shaped her path.
What qualities does BAE embody that you hope to carry with you into adulthood?
The quality that BAE embodies that I hope to carry with me into adulthood is the boldness to change the world through music and words—always exploring outside of my comfort zone to discover myself and my interests. I started music at a very young age, joining the senior choir. I was terrified of being the youngest member. Then Ms. Brittany came along, building my confidence, and I did a solo. I was the proudest then. Dr. Chris had the biggest impact on me; he inspired me to be strong by sharing his story about his life struggles. He taught me that being emotional is not a weakness but a beauty. BAE has given me the happiness that I once would only dream of, and I have left with values that will stick with me forever.
Why is access to arts education important for all youth?
I think that access to arts education is important for all youth because it serves as a safe platform to release all emotions. Music is an art that everyone should have access to since it gives happiness that nothing else can give. Having music allowed me to think creatively, explore new ideas, and express myself uniquely. For me it has reduced stress and given me comfort during my academic journey.
How has studying music impacted your life?
Studying music has impacted my life so much. It has built me up to be the young woman I am today. In grade 8, I became choir leader. It was a ride, but I feel proud and accomplished. During the journey, I became confident that I could try anything outside of my comfort zone. I am grateful to have a great team like BAE to support me in growing and to nurture me. It gave me a sense of belonging and love in the community. This way, I was able to share my joy with many people.
Imagine speaking to your 9th grade self: What would you say about the role BAE has played in shaping your goals and future?
In 9th grade, I was still navigating my role as a choir leader, so I would tell myself that it will be worth fighting for. BAE will help shape my goals and future with the strong values that will be learned in the years to come. Stay strong and help others to do the same, for music is in the air bringing joy.
Share your favorite memory of your time with BAE — tell us a story that captures its meaning.
Melomania
My tiny feet stepped into a dusty room with notes echoing
A tinge of joy fluttered out of me
I ran but it travelled like a shadow around me
What is this?
Stilling myself, I heard the word music
Bewildered, I sat listening to all the things told about what I now call, HOME.
Notes and rhythms intertwined within me,
a symphony pulsing through my veins
Then, it dawned upon me—there was no return
For I realized I had fallen profoundly in love with music.
Throughout the years, music has been my shoulder through ecstasy and blue
All the bitter-tainted, trembling lips, over quivering limbs it anchored me.
With it by my side, I would forget the burning chaotic world.
Notes branched out to form what I call family-BAE
You gave me somewhere I can call home
You gave a circle that forgets skin, injustice, agony
You let me soar through the sky saying the stars are the limit
Tears spilled over mess, yet made me a storm in wind
Besides all, you gave me home
Music is home.
