These were the four talents that took home the cash prizes from the inaugural ‘Sampson County’s Got Talent.’ Pictured, from left, are Brady Daughtry, Rachel West, Kiyah Braxton and Mikayla Moore.
Courtesy photo
Inaugural ‘Sampson County’s Got Talent’ deemed huge success
The first ever “Sampson County’s Got Talent” event was a smashing success and went off without a hitch as it shed new light on the many artist talents in Sampson.
The stage was set, the audience gathered and talent overflowed at the inaugural launch of the talent show, hosted by the Sampson Arts Council. Directed by local theater buff and Hobbton High teacher Angela Martin, the evening of entertainment brought together a wide array of acts, showcasing the vibrant artistic spirit of Sampson County.
The show, held at the Sampson County Exposition Center, featured 21 diverse acts ranging from singers to dancers, musicians, and performers, all competing for cash prizes, including the “People’s Choice Award.”
Taking center stage were the four remarkable winners of the talent show, each leaving an indelible mark with their exceptional performances.
Taking first place was Kiyah Braxton who wowed the audience with her soulful vocal rendition of “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele. That vocal talent led Braxton to winning the top prize of $1,000.
A junior at Lakewood High School and the daughter of Jessica Adams and LeRoy Braxton of Roseboro, she not only excels academically, ranking in the top ten of her class, but she also actively participates in Beta Club and FBLA.
Beyond academics, she’s is a dedicated athlete, playing volleyball, basketball and softball, and is part of the Sampson County Junior Leadership Program. Her involvement in her church, St. Thomas AME Zion Church, a testament to her strong faith and values.
Snagging the second place prize of $500 was Newton Grove’s Rachel West who also captivated the audience with her vocal sound. Singing a rendition of “You Ain’t Woman Enough” by Loretta Lynn landed her that prize. Her performance resonated deeply, reflecting her journey of faith and dedication to her craft.
A contemporary worship leader at Benson Baptist Church, West is on a path of spiritual and artistic growth. She’s soon to graduate from Campbell University Divinity School with a Master of Divinity degree, specializing in Chaplaincy and Counseling.
West’s talents extend beyond singing, she indulges in preaching, songwriting, and spending quality time with loved ones.
Third place was captured by the dazzling and mesmerizing contemporary dance routine of Mikayla Moore, earning her $250.
Moore, from Clinton, is a dance instructor at Dance Ascension and a rising star in the dance world, a passion and talent evident in every her move. Her journey began at 8-years old under the guidance of Ashley O’Quinn, owner of Dance Ascension.
Since then, Moore’s accolades include awards for dancing and choreography, acceptance into prestigious programs like UNCSA and Joffrey Ballet School, and recent employment as a teaching artist for Liberate Artist in Los Angeles and New York.
Her dream is to become a professional dancer in LA, and her performance at the talent show showcased her immense potential.
The final $100 prize was reserved for the People’s Choice which was voted on by the audience and went to Brady Daughtry, who stole hearts with his amazing yo-yo routine.
A proud 6th grader at Hobbton Middle School and son of Dallie and Cathy Daughtry from Clinton, his unique talent and joyful personality shone on stage. A lover of baseball, dogs and cheering for the NC State Wolfpack, Daughtry is an active member of Piney Grove Baptist Church and participates in Boy Scouts.
His self-taught yo-yo skills, showcased on his YouTube Channel, captured the audience’s attention and earned him the People’s Choice Award.
“The talent show wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of the judges, including Hailey Best Wade, Dr. Robert Canida II, and Virgil Oxendine, who brought their expertise and enthusiasm to the judging panel,” Sampson Arts Council stated. “Carli Batson, as Mistress of Ceremonies, added flair and energy to the event, showcasing her passion for the arts and advocacy.”
Jonelle Strickland, president of the Sampson Arts Council, expressed gratitude to everyone involved in making the event a success. “Sampson County’s got talent! We knew it, and thought you should too,” Strickland said, highlighting the vibrant arts community in Sampson County and inviting everyone to be part of the arts movement.
“The inaugural “Sampson County’s Got Talent” was a resounding success, celebrating the rich artistic heritage and talent within the community,” the Arts council stated. “As the spotlight dims on this year’s winners, the stage is set for the next generation of talent to shine.”
For more information on upcoming events and how to get involved with the Sampson Arts Council, visit www.sampsonarts.net.