Magdalena’s Journey to the Australian Women in Music Awards

Though she never set out to build a career in music, Chilian-born singer and songwriter Magdalena Mira found herself drawn back to it time and again. Each step, shaped by chance and connection, brought her closer to where she is today.

In 2024, that path led her to join SSI’s delegation to the Australian Women in Music Awards (AWMA). Each year SSI supports women from diverse backgrounds to take part in the conference and awards, offering opportunities to connect, learn, and be recognised. For Magdalena, the invitation came from a close friend and opened the door to an experience that was both empowering and transformative.

“Sandra convinced me to apply, and I thought, why not? When I was selected, it felt like such a gift,” Magdalena said.

Sandra Morales was a finalist in the SSI Diversity Award in 2024. Her encouragement gave Magdalena the confidence to apply for the delegation – something she admits she would never have done on her own.

Magdalena’s path into music was not linear. She studied music at school, but it wasn’t until life experiences and relationships drew her back to performing that she found herself committed to it.

Raising children meant she stepped away for several years, but when she returned, she came back with more passion than ever before. She formed an Afro-Peruvian band, performed at venues across Sydney, and decided she wanted to pursue music full time.

“Music has always found me. Even when I took a break, it called me back. Now I just want to keep doing it,” she said.

For Magdalena, the highlight of being part of the SSI delegation was the connection with other women. She speaks warmly of the friendships formed with fellow artists and the sense of belonging that grew from their shared experiences.

“The best part was our little crew. We supported each other, laughed, connected, and had the kind of conversations that stay with you. It was such a beautiful experience,” she said.

The delegation gave Magdalena access to industry leaders and valuable networking opportunities, but what stood out most for her was how genuine the connections felt. The professional insights were powerful, and the support of the group made the experience even more meaningful.

“I learned to stay authentic. Watching other women give their all to their music reminded me that being true to yourself is what matters most. That’s the only way to sustain a career and a life in music.”

Magdalena believes events like AWMA play a vital role in giving visibility to women in music, especially those from diverse backgrounds. The conference offered her exposure to people she would never otherwise have met, and a chance to see how the industry works in Australia.

She also recognised the importance of collective strength.

“When women come together with authenticity, they create real strength. That’s why events like AWMA matter. With their influence, they hold a responsibility to lift up diverse women in music and ensure their stories are seen and heard.”

Since AWMA, Magdalena continues to perform and create music. The lessons from the delegation – about authenticity, resilience, and community remain part of her approach to her career.

She keeps in touch with some of the artists she met, follows their journeys and celebrates their achievements.

Reflecting on the experience, she hopes more women take the chance to be part of future delegations.

“If I could give advice, it would be to just be yourself. Don’t try to be someone else. Your voice and your story are enough.”