A week ago, I was able to watch one of the most inspiring and fantastic videos I’ve seen in months. I’m sure you’ve already seen it being featured on television shows and news articles. Susan Boyle, a humble villager from the UK, joined Simon Cowell’s Britain’s Got Talent and not only captured the awe of the audience that night, but also wowed millions of viewers from around the globe when clips of her singing “I Dreamed a Dream” from Les Miserables were uploaded in Youtube. BGT is a reality-slash-talent show that showcases the undiscovered, if not unique, talents in the UK. The prize is £100,000 and the chance to perform in front of the Royal Family.  Susan Boyle’s story was very inspiring as everyone, according to Amanda Holden (one of the judges), “was cynical” upon seeing Susan onstage. But after she sang,  all the laughter turned into tears, and disbelief turned into a standing ovation.

Susan’s story is somewhat similar to Paul Potts‘ fascinating rise to stardom. He won in Season 1 of BGT and like Susan, he also lived a very low-profile life. He was often bullied, resulting in low self-esteem. But when he started to sing Giacomo Puccini’s Nessun Dorma, everyone, including Simon, was amazed by this tenor. During the semifinals, he sang one of Andrea Bocelli’s songs and advanced to the finals. He eventually won and has recorded albums now and has made his tour in some parts of the world, including our country last October. Watch his first appearance in BGT (right video).

Another contestant with a similar background is Andrew Johnston, who like Paul, has been bullied in school, most probably because of his unusual talent. But, when this young boy soprano performed in front of the live audience in BGT last year, people were astounded and even Amanda was in tears. Watch Andrew’s performance here.

Since I’m in the mood to share uplifting performances from BGT stars here, let me share with you Connie Talbot, a very charming little girl who was six when she joined the contest. Her very heartwarming and sincere rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” (left video) not only showed her innocence but at the same time reminded everyone, including me, that sometimes, in this world full of hustle and bustle, we have to listen and believe, even if at first it seems impossible. Until now, her performance lightens up my day. Watch her also sing Michael Jackson’s ‘Ben’ during the semi-finals last year.

And for those who do not know, we have our local version of this show franchise, “Talentadong Pinoy,” hosted by Ryan Agoncillo. It airs every Saturday from 7 - 8pm on ABC5.  I suggest you catch this program to witness our unseen local talents - I’m sure some of them will inspire you, too.