Rebecca Strong is Saskatchewan’s newest millionaire after winning the top prize on Canada’s Got Talent.
Strong was awarded the huge $1 million cash prize on Tuesday night following her highly anticipated live show in Niagara Falls.
“I’ve worked very hard for this moment and I’m very proud of myself,” Strong said on CTV News’ morning show.
The 20-year-old Indigenous singer from Prince Albert was one of the eight remaining artists who performed in the final show. The winner was determined by a public vote.
“I had to remind myself to breathe and stay calm, and whatever happened, I made it this far. But I came there to win, so I was very confident.”
After his performance on May 7, Strong joined other contestants who made it to that season’s finale.
“I prepared for every performance every day of my life,” she said.
Strong’s dedication and talent were evident throughout the competition. At the start of the season, she received the coveted Golden Buzzer, securing her spot in the live shows and $25,000 in prize money.
Strong began her career as a singer in a family band and decided to launch her solo career in 2019.
So far, Strong plans to use the money to buy a new vehicle, pay off her father’s debts and go on vacation.
“I would put most of it away and the rest I will buy a new vehicle,” she said. “I want to help my parents; my father, yes; “I’m going to have a nice vacation.”
Strong began her career as a singer in a family band and decided to launch her solo career in 2019.
When she was just five years old, she performed at the Prince Albert Winter Festival and over time her love for music grew stronger.
When Strong got the opportunity to audition for Canada’s Got Talent, she knew she couldn’t pass it up.
Now, Strong hopes to inspire Indigenous youth to pursue their dreams and show them that anything is possible.
“We only have one life to live and if you have talent or any other gift, just share it and share it with the world. Don’t be afraid, this is something I wanted to convey to people,” she said.
Strong said music has always been a part of her life and now she is ready to make it her main focus.
“This is the end of my Canada’s Got Talent journey, but the beginning of my music journey,” she said.
“I want to share my music and release some original songs and an album and share my music with the world.”
“Coffeeaholic. Lifelong alcohol fanatic. Typical travel expert. Prone to fits of apathy. Internet trailblazer.”