'Being away from family is tough’: Filipino busker heals his heart through OPM and classic hits in Queensland

After waiting four years to be reunited with his family in Australia, Kareem Acdal now pursues his dream of busking feeling that he’s finally living a life where his dreams are coming true.

For Kareem Acdal, bringing joy to his audience as a busker reassures him that he is living a life filled with purpose and meaning. Credit: Kareem Acdal/ Facebook

Key Points

• Kareem Acdal was only five years old when he began singing, and he comes from a family with a strong passion and talent for music in Gingoog City, Philippines.
• Even before arriving in Australia in 2017, he had long dreamed of becoming a busker.
• Each state and territory in Australia has its own regulations regarding busking.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

'Being away from family is tough’: Filipino busker heals his heart through OPM and classic hits in Queensland

SBS Filipino

14:26Filipino

After four long years, Kareem Acdal was finally reunited with his family in Australia. He says they are his greatest inspiration, giving him the strength to sing and face life’s daily challenges. Credit: Kareem Acdal

Kareem Acdal, a native of Gingoog City from a family of musicians, discovered his love for singing at just five years old.

Now in Ipswich, Queensland, he balances work with busking, sharing the joy of Original Pilipino Music and timeless classics with everyone who stops to listen.

For Kareem, music is more than a hobby it is a way to uplift others, bring hope, and leave a meaningful mark on the world.

Though the streets of Australia have presented many challenges, he embraces each one as a lesson, growing stronger and collecting experiences that have shaped his journey as a passionate and dedicated musician.

A senior once shouted at me, you're too loud, someone threw rubbish, and someone even stole money from my guitar case. But what truly touches me are the moments my music moves people—an elderly cried, others remembered their parents, and one said, 'Mate, you did a great job.

Kareem Cabriole Acdal, Busker in Queensland

Kareem showcased his singing talent at an event organised by the Filipino community in Queensland. Credit: Philippine Consulate Queensland/ facebook

Because of his talent, he quickly gained recognition and became actively involved in community events.

This was captured at the Buwan ng Wika festival in Queensland. Credit: Gemma Cruz Goutos/Facebook

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