Born in Darwin, the striking Jessica Mauboy boasts a unique heritage. Jessica’s father has a Timorese Indonesian background, while her mother is an Indigenous Australian. It was Jessica’s music-loving Dad who encouraged her to audition for Australian Idol. The aspiring vocalist was initially unsure she could pull it off. She’s inherently “shy”. Ironically, Idol gave her a confidence boost.At 19, Jessica Mauboy was ready to show the world her strength as a solo artist with the release of her debut album, Been Waiting, with Sony Music. Jessica co-wrote material for her album with all Australian producers. As a performer, she has mesmerised Australian audiences with major TV performances on multiple awards shows including MTV Australia, ARIA Awards and Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards. After supporting international superstars Beyonce, Flo Rida and Chris Brown tours around Australia, in 2011, Jessica Mauboy cemented her musical success with her first national sold out headline tour. Jess has established herself as one of Australia’s biggest female pop stars when she was invited to perform for Oprah Winfrey and US President Barack Obama in 2011. She also represents a key role model to the indigenous community for Australia as seen in her involvements across their organisations that range from mentoring, performing and education. Jessica was also bestowed the Northern Territory Young Australian of the Year for 2012.
