Events
Joanne Osewe Named 2024 Wake Tech Idol
RALEIGH, N.C. (November 8, 2024) – Wake Tech student Joanne Osewe shined in the spotlight and captured the title of Wake Tech Idol Friday night at the Scott Northern Wake Campus.
Osewe, who sang "Figures" by Jessie Reyez and "Someone Like You" by Adele, defeated 10 other finalists to win the friendly singing competition that highlights student talent and received a $2,000 scholarship from the Wake Tech Foundation. Runners-up Naomi Kolela and Braden Shepstead took home a $1,500 scholarship and a $1,250 scholarship, respectively.
Dozens of Wake Tech students submitted virtual auditions, and the top 11 were selected to appear in the finals. Judges included Rheji Burrell, a pioneering multi-platinum songwriter and producer; Quinton Praise, a piano teacher and vocal coach who won the Wake Tech Idol competition in 2023; and Jacqueline Williams Wittenburg, the executive director of The Dereck Whittenburg Foundation for Education, advocating for students pursuing college degrees. The judges chose the top three finalists, and the audience picked the winner.
Osewe, who is pursuing an Associate in Arts degree, says she is grateful for the scholarship. "Right now, I am paying for books out of my own pocket. These funds will make all the difference as I complete my degree and, hopefully, transfer to UNC-Greensboro. Thank you, Wake Tech!"
See a short video of Joanne Osewe’s Wake Tech Idol performance and win.
Hosted by the Scott Northern Wake Campus Hospitality Committee, Wake Tech Idol engages the college community in friendly competition that highlights student talent as well as fine arts courses and programs at the college.
