A young singer whose voice has been commanding the attention of passers-by has revealed her plans for the future, as well as starting a new business. 

Benji Ybanez, 19, was born in Cebu Philippines and moved to Australia when she was five.

She lived there until she was 18 and then came to Ulverston rather spontaneously in early May with a close friend.

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She began singing at the age of three, initially singing Filipino songs with her mother’s encouragement.

By the time Benji was six, she was performing songs by Michael Jackson and Aretha Franklin.

"I quickly fell in love with the art," Benji said. "Music has been a constant in my life, helping me connect to my roots and express myself, which naturally led me into songwriting and eventually busking.

Benji was singing Aretha Franklin songs by the time she was six  (Image: Benji Ybanez) "My ultimate goal is to become a world-renowned singer, known for powerful, authentic performances and meaningful songwriting.

"For now, I’m busking and writing music but I’m working towards expanding my audience and finding more opportunities to share my voice with the world."

Ulverston has become a base for Benji's creative pursuits and her performances both indoors and outdoors around South Cumbria and Lancaster are increasingly recorded and uploaded to social media by people who have stopped to watch her perform.

Annie Dickinson describes how one day, when she was working in Ulverston, she became 'mesmerized by Benji's melodious voice' whilst performing Careless Whisper by George Michael.

She put her shoes on to follow the sound to Market Cross and discovered Benji.

She later uploaded a video to Facebook and added: "Someone please tell me where Benji should go to talk about performing inside on a regular basis .

"We need a steady diet of this incredible beauty and energy. #UlverstonsGotTalent"


Singer Benji Ybanez (Image: Benji Ybanez) Benji's future plans involve developing her business which is in its very early stages.

CLASS - nom élevé is currently a modelling agency however will progress into a lifestyle agency. 

She will also continue to work on her music with the support and inspiration of Ulverston. 

Benji said: "Ulverston has been incredibly supportive for my music. Since I started busking here, and by the time I turned 19, I felt embraced by the Lake District community.

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"People began recognizing me, and it’s been an amazing experience to share my music with such a welcoming audience.

"So far, I’ve been focused on growing my own music career, but connecting with other buskers and musicians in the area has always been something I’ve been looking forward to do.

"Knowing there are other prominent buskers here gives me even more motivation to explore the Lake District area."