LAS VEGAS, NEVADA — In a historic achievement for Thailand’s performing arts scene, 11-year-old Charyn Sinthavathavorn has been named the 2026 Junior Grand Champion Solo Vocalist of the World at the 28th Annual World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA). Held in Las Vegas, Nevada, this prestigious victory marks the first time a contestant from Thailand has taken home the coveted title in the competition’s 28-year history.
This year’s WCOPA—often dubbed the “Olympics of Performing Arts”—featured top talent from 54 countries. Charyn, a Grade 5 student at the International School Bangkok (ISB), stood out among global competitors to claim the ultimate championship title in the junior division (under 15 years old).
A Remarkable Journey of Passion and Growth
Charyn’s path to the global stage began just two and a half years ago. After moving to a new school, her parents enrolled her in a summer Broadway camp featuring the musical Matilda to help her adjust and make new friends. That experience sparked a deep passion for musical theatre and live performance.
Since then, Charyn has dedicated herself to honing her vocal and stage technique across diverse genres—including Musical Theatre, Pop, Rock, and R&B. After sweeping top prizes at national singing competitions in Thailand, she earned her spot as a national delegate for WCOPA 2026, culminating in her historic world title.
A Stellar Performance on the World Stage
In addition to winning the Junior Grand Champion Solo Vocalist of the World title, Charyn achieved an extraordinary medal haul across solo and group categories:
10 Gold Medals
6 Silver Medals
3 Bronze Medals
6 High Score Plaques
Recognizing her exceptional talent, representatives from prestigious global institutions awarded Charyn educational scholarships and development grants from both the New York Film Academy and Watersound Entertainment to further support her performing arts journey.
Team Thailand Celebrates Record Success
The broader Thai delegation also achieved remarkable success at WCOPA 2026. Represented by 18 individual contestants and two group acts, Team Thailand brought home a total of 119 medals (47 Gold, 30 Silver, and 42 Bronze). The team also secured 1st Runner-Up in the National Parade of Nations and received the Certificate of Excellence for National Director, highlighting Thailand’s growing presence and influence in the global performing arts arena.
Charyn joins a distinguished lineup of notable Thai artists who have previously showcased their talents on the WCOPA stage, including Tachaya “Keng” Prathumwan (Keng The Voice), Satida “Nan” Promphiriya, Karn Juntong (Karn KPN), and Primapa Korrojanachavin.
”From joining a summer theatre camp to overcome loneliness to standing at the top of the world stage as the 2026 Junior Grand Champion, Charyn Sinthavathavorn’s journey proves that passion and perseverance know no age limit.”
