Australian singer-songwriter Tarryn Stokes won the twelfth season of The Voice Australia in October 2023. At that moment, having friends and family close was most important to Stokes. “Winning was out of this world. We were all screaming and in shock,” she shares.
“The competition was a huge personal growth experience. Or perhaps more like practising what I’ve been learning,” says Stokes. “I was recently diagnosed with ADHD, and learning about myself and my neurodiverse brain has empowered me so much,” she says.
She reflects that in the past being a perfectionist had been limiting for her. “Unpacking that with my psychologist has helped me to put myself out there again. I don’t have to strive for perfection anymore. I can just be enough and enjoy things a little more,” says Stokes. The Voice competition was stressful at times, but she handled every stage with grace and confidence and won Australia’s hearts.
“Having different experiences in my life has meant that, for the most part, I haven’t felt overwhelmed.” – Tarryn Stokes
Stokes shares that the competition had many wonderful memories, but her personal highlights were singing the battle duet and the duet with her coach, Rita Ora. “I love singing with others and bringing that united energy,” says Stokes.
After winning The Voice, Stokes felt ready to get down to work on making music for others to enjoy. Her winning single Nobody and the other songs she performed in the competition are available to stream on Spotify and Apple Music. “I felt happy to start working hard with my team and pursue my career. Having different experiences in my life has meant that, for the most part, I haven’t felt overwhelmed,” she says.
Stokes and her husband are conscious of being present with her children in this process. “Parenting my children is the most important thing. Making sure they feel secure in their attachment with me at such a young age and that I’m present,” shares Stokes.
“Knowing that God has a plan and trusting in that gives me peace.” – Tarryn Stokes
She continues to receive immense support from her loving husband, close family and friends. “They know me so well and are my safe place,” she says. Stokes has been leaning on Ephesians 3:20-21 throughout this season and trusting in God’s plan. “God can do anything, you know — far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams.”
“Lately, I’m trying to concentrate on hope that good things can happen ahead instead of my natural tendency of thinking about or planning for all the things that can go wrong,” she says. “Knowing that God has a plan and trusting in that gives me peace,” she shares.
With the Christmas season about to kick off, Stokes has been preparing to perform at beautiful Christmas events coming up in December. “I’m singing at a few local carols in Melbourne and then at Woolworths Carols In The Domain. I can’t wait! I love the meaning of Christmas and being able to sing about it with families from across Melbourne and Sydney,” she shares.
Stokes looks forward to celebrating Christmas with her family and launching into the new year with new music to share. “I’m excited for the future: to connect with people, to encourage others and to create great inspiring music,” she says.
To continue following Stoke’s journey and music, you can check out her Instagram and Facebook.