In June 2024, Nikola began an application process with the Art’s Council of Northern Ireland seeking an award fund of £7,500.00 to pay for studying under the mentorship of two time F.I.S.M. manipulation winner, Hyunjoon Kim.
The idea behind this was to educate herself to become a better stage performer. Train with a professional that has experience in the field Nikola wishes to excel in. And do that in person. This would require her to travel to South Korea for an extended period of time engaging Hyunjoon in 12 one on one lessons in magic and manipulation.
After submitting her application in September 2024, on 30th November 2024 it was announced that Nikola had been awarded £7,164.00 to fulfil her desire to train with Hyunjoon.
From 15th January to the 11th February 2025 Nikola travelled from Belfast to South Korea and from it has not only gained a new mentor in magic, but a friend that will help her to achieve her dreams of creating a stage magic act to perform around the world on huge stages.
I would just like to take this opportunity to thank some people for making this trip possible.
The Arts Council and Exchequer fund for supporting me financially to do this.
Marianne Crossle for helping me shape my words into a successful application.
Gavin O’Connor my arts official for guiding me to the correct application and confirming that I do deserve to apply for funding in the first place.
My amazing family for all the support you gave me and for allowing me to follow my dreams. No matter how insane they seem.
And of course
My newly appointed mentor, Hyunjoon Kim.
