March is Women's International Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women across the world. This month, we are honored to shine a spotlight on an exceptional young woman who embodies dedication, talent, and perseverance—our goddaughter, Lorraine. Her passion for music and commitment to excellence make her an inspiration to young women everywhere, proving that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
A Journey of Passion and Dedication
Lorraine’s musical journey began at the young age of six when she picked up the violin for the first time at Woodford Paideia Elementary School. Since then, her love for music has grown into a lifelong passion, guiding her through an incredible path of growth and success. She honed her skills as part of her middle school’s strings group and later joined the prestigious Cincinnati Public School Jazz Academy. This remarkable program allowed her to perform alongside professional artists from all over the world, culminating in an annual jazz festival performance at the renowned Aronoff Center for the Arts.
Excellence in Performance and Competition
Driven by her passion for excellence, Lorraine pursued studies from the Book of Suzuki Violins, a renowned method of violin instruction. Her dedication and talent have earned her significant accolades, including two silver medals, three gold medals, and a trophy at the Strings Olympics hosted by the College-Conservatory of Music at The University of Cincinnati College.
Her accomplishments continued in high school, where she took on the role of first chair in the Shroder Strings program. Under her leadership, her school’s string ensemble competed in the Music in the Parks festival, earning an 'Excellent' rating in 2022 and a 'Superior' rating in 2023. Lorraine's ability to inspire and uplift those around her through music has set her apart as a leader and role model.
A Bright Future in Music
In 2023, Lorraine expanded her musical reach by joining the Northern Cincinnati Youth Orchestra, where she had the opportunity to perform at various venues across the city. She also showcased her incredible talent at The School for the Creative and Performing Arts in support of the Benjamin Carlson-Berne Scholarship Fund. Her dedication and skill led to an invitation to join the esteemed Nouveau Ensemble with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. In 2025, this year alone, Lorraine won the gold medal for String Olympics for the month of March and for 2025 as well as her participation in Cincinnati's Talent Hunt. She also performed in a recital at the Miami University at the Ohio Federation of Music Club Festival and won unanimous superior for her solo and duet. Her drive, passion and gifts continue to make room for her to grow and develop into a word class musical talent.
With a clear vision for her future, Lorraine aspires to continue her musical journey at The University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM), where she hopes to refine her craft and make an even greater impact in the world of music.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Lorraine’s journey serves as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and unwavering dedication. As we celebrate Women's International Month, we honor young women like Lorraine who are breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations. Her story reminds us that talent combined with hard work can lead to extraordinary accomplishments.
To all the young women pursuing their dreams—whether in music, science, business, or any other field—let Lorraine’s journey be a source of inspiration. The world needs your brilliance, resilience, and creativity. Keep striving, keep believing, and keep making history.
Help Lorraine Perform in Italy!
Lorraine has been given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform with an orchestra in Italy this May, and we need your help to make this dream come true! As a young Black artist, this experience could be life-changing, opening doors to a future in music that she has worked so hard to achieve.
Her mother, Minet, a dedicated single mom of twin girls, has done everything possible to support Lorraine’s passion, but she shouldn’t have to do it alone. We’re asking for your support to raise $8,000 by May so Lorraine, her mother, and her twin sister can take this incredible journey together.
If you believe in supporting young artists, celebrating Black excellence, and making dreams come true, please consider donating and sharing Lorraine’s fundraiser.
Donate today and be part of Lorraine’s journey to Italy!
Happy Women's International Month!
