First-year music student at Stellenbosch University, Helena Kriel, is one of the 11 pianists selected to contest the National Youth Music Competition (NYMC) this year.

The 19-year-old rising star entered the NYMC to challenge herself, improve her performance skills and connect with other musicians. "I aim to become a better musician through this experience," she smiles.

Helena has been through the proverbial mill on her musical journey. She started playing the piano when she was seven years old, but had to stop when her teacher got sick. She only started piano lessons again at age 13 and had to re-learn everything from the start.

Her first teacher was Prof Deon Lambrecht, followed by several others, including Prof Albie van Schalkwyk, up to her current tutor, Prof Nina Schumann, who won the 1988 NYMC.

The budding musician also plays the organ, saying the piano is her favourite instrument.

Music runs in her veins. Both her parents played instruments when they were younger, and her three sisters took piano lessons.

She says it is difficult to pick just one favourite composer, but Dimitri Shostakovich and Johannes Brahms are high up on her list of favourites.

"Brahms' work, particularly his piano concertos and chamber music, strikes me as being incredibly emotive. I find that his music resonates with me on a deep level and has an unmatched emotional depth. Shostakovich's work strikes the ideal mix between technical difficulty and contagious intensity, which is why I adore it. His works are incredibly fun and keep you on your toes," she laughs.

The talented pianist describes herself as driven. She practices approximately four hours per day, depending on her schedule. In her free time, she enjoys board games and conversations with friends and family. To unwind, she likes to go hiking and enjoy nature.

If she could be an animal, she would like to be a honey badger. It symbolises persistence, determination and endurance, offering mental energy and a strong fighting spirit. "It teaches us to stay committed to a project until it is finished," she states.

"Although I have not yet established a definitive plan for my future, I am interested in pursuing postgraduate studies abroad with a specialisation in performance. Professionally, I aspire to become involved in organising classical music events and festivals, as well as engaging in teaching or lecturing roles."

Helena's motto in life is: "Seek discomfort."