Jason Owen returns to town
AFTER being told ‘no’ and laughed at on stage at the age of 13, Jason Owen has gone on to transform his singing career and is now inspiring children to do the same.
Auditioning for X-factor at the age of 18, Jason finished runner-up behind Samantha Jade in 2012.
After releasing two albums, the Albert local established charity Doin it For Rural Aussie Kids in 2019 to motivate children to understand that coming from a regional background does not limit their opportunity.
“I’ve always wanted to do something that can assist others,” he told Dubbo Photo News, saying it was a concept he had been working and donating towards for a long time and decided it was time to commence his own foundation.
To raise awareness and donations, Jason tours across Australia, singing and sharing his journey to audiences in rural and regional towns.
On Monday he visited Dubbo South Primary School, speaking about staying motivated and performing his latest hit, Sing Australia.
“I also visit families a lot and give them what I can because I know I can make a difference,” he added, saying every child and family deserves a loving Christmas.
“With every dollar we raise we try to spend that within the year, just because we know so many people need it.
“I grew up in Albert and wanted to become a singer,” he said, recalling how he quit for a brief moment before again gaining confidence once he was initially knocked back.
Jason shared an anecdote about being bullied by his peers during his younger years in school, which stopped him from singing for a period.
He told Dubbo Photo News that no matter if you are succeeding, or need assistance, people will always have a negative comment.
“And I still get it now,” he said, but added that he gradually learned to not focus on negative comments, even though that sometimes still affects him.
Jason loves visiting Dubbo as most of his family and close friends live within the region, and says most of his significant moments are celebrated in the Central West.
“My wife, Becy and I christened our daughter, Lyla Rose Owen here last weekend in Dubbo – she has brought a lot of joy to our lives.”
Jason was due to appear at the Dubbo Show however tested positive to Covid-19 yesterday and will no longer be able to perform at the show.