Singer-songwriter Audrey Nuna is stepping out from behind the captivating persona of Mira in the animated series KPop Demon Hunters to champion a new mission: nurturing the next generation of musical talent. Nuna, already a Grammy-nominated artist with her own unique style blending pop and indie sensibilities, is partnering with Outschool, an online education platform focusing on creative skills, to launch the “Outschool Music Showcase.”
This global competition invites young artists ages six to 18 to submit vocal, instrumental, or performance videos. Winners will receive a cash prize, signed merchandise, and most importantly, a masterclass directly with Nuna herself. She sees this as more than just a contest; it’s an opportunity to provide mentorship and guidance to aspiring creatives often underserved in traditional educational settings.
“I think creativity enriches humans’ brains, lives, and souls,” Nuna emphasizes. “Creativity makes people more empathetic, more well-rounded, and more confident.” Her perspective stems from personal experience. Nuna describes herself as incredibly shy until she discovered the power of performance at age eight through a Korean folk singing competition. This early triumph ignited a confidence within her that translated into success in both music and life.
Nuna’s parents, particularly her mother, instilled this belief in creative expression from an early age. Her father, while initially more traditional in his outlook, always offered practical support, driving her to voice lessons and even picking her up at the Port Authority bus stop after school for choir rehearsals. This kind of encouragement, Nuna stresses, is vital for any parent supporting a child drawn to the arts: “There’s nothing to fear” when it comes to nurturing creativity.
Overcoming Self-Doubt
The “Outschool Music Showcase” isn’t just about talent; it’s also a space to address the crippling self-doubt that can plague young artists in an era dominated by social media comparisons. Nuna offers this simple yet powerful advice: “Every day, just say one thing and look at yourself in the mirror… ‘I am amazing,’ ‘I love the art that I make,’ ‘I love who I am.’ ” She believes that repeating positive affirmations can rewire our internal narrative, even when initial feelings of insecurity linger.
This focus on self-empowerment extends beyond the competition itself. Nuna openly discusses how she uses her platform to advocate for greater educational access and equity in the arts. Her long-term goal? Creating her own school one day.
Mira’s Legacy: Beyond KPop Demon Hunters
Even while discussing her personal aspirations, Nuna can’t help but bring up Mira, the fierce and charismatic lead character she voices in KPop Demon Hunters. While acknowledging Mira’s tough exterior, Nuna believes she would undoubtedly use her platform to empower young artists.
“I think she has a very tough exterior, but I also think that she is one of the most empathetic characters and cares deeply about other people. So I absolutely think she would be using her platform. Maybe she would be doing something in choreography or providing time to teach kids dance movement.”
Nuna herself embodies this spirit of generosity. When asked about her own musical journey, she emphasizes the joy found in experimentation and collaboration. She credits a first collaborator, Anwar Sawyer, for teaching her that embracing uncertainty is key to creative breakthroughs. Her advice? Surround yourself with people who make creating fun — because ultimately, it’s enjoyment that unlocks potential.
Nuna’s path from shy child to Grammy-nominated artist is inspiring in itself. But her commitment to nurturing young talent suggests this is only the beginning of her impact on the music world. Nuna isn’t just breaking barriers as a KPop Demon Hunter; she’s actively creating a more inclusive and supportive space for future generations of artists.
