From altar server to gold medalist: Meet the Fil-Aussie student leader who shined in NZ

By the age of one, Juanito Reinelle Collantes already had a good sense of tone when singing, and by three, he was playing the piano and trumpet. He participated in many performances before being selected for the Australian Children's Choir.

---

Key Points

• Juanito Reinelle Collantes, a 14-year-old, is the only child of pharmacist Lili-Anne and engineer Reinhold Juan Collantes, residing in Melbourne. Apart from his passion for singing, Juanito is talented in playing the piano and trumpet, skills inherited from his mother’s musically gifted family. From his father, he inherited intelligence and a positive outlook on life.
• Beyond his musical abilities, Juanito excels academically, holds a leadership role as a student leader, and serves as an altar server. He shares that while music and singing are his hobbies, his main focus is his education.
• The Collantes couple emphasises that, aside from supporting their son in academics, music, and sports, they ensure he stays connected with the church, constantly praying for him to grow humble and, above all, to develop a strong faith in God.

As migrants who have faced many challenges in starting their life here in Australia, the couple Lili-Anne and Reinhold Juan Collantes regard their son, Juanito, as a source of inspiration. Credit: Lili-Anne Collantes

The group won the gold medal in the Sacred Section at The World Choir Games in Auckland, New Zealand, this July 2024. Credit: ACC/Facebook Credit:

Juanito Reinelle Collantes also known as Yuan by his parents and friends, participated in the World Choir Games in Auckland, New Zealand, where the group won gold. Credit: Lili-Anne Collantes Credit:

Aside from singing, Yuan Collantes is skilled at playing the piano and trumpet. Credit: Lili- Anne Collantes

14-year-old Juanito says that being an altar server is his way of thanking God for all the blessings his family and he have received. Credit: Lili-Anne Collantes