TEHRAN, Iran — Maj. Gen. Majid Khademi, head of intelligence for Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, was killed early Monday in an Israeli airstrike on Tehran, Iranian state media and the IRGC announced, marking another major blow to the paramilitary force amid ongoing U.S.-Israeli military operations against Iran.

The IRGC confirmed Khademi’s death in a statement carried by Iranian outlets including Tasnim and Sepah News, describing the incident as a “criminal terrorist attack by the American-Zionist enemy” at dawn. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz and the Israel Defense Forces quickly claimed responsibility, with Katz stating the strike eliminated “one of those directly responsible for these war crimes” and one of the three most senior officials in the organization.

Khademi, who assumed the role in June 2025 after his predecessor Brig. Gen. Mohammad Kazemi was killed in earlier Israeli strikes during the initial phase of the 2025-2026 conflict, had served in the IRGC’s intelligence organization for nearly five years. Iranian sources portrayed him as a “powerful and educated” figure central to countering foreign infiltration and protecting the Guard from external threats.

The strike occurred as U.S.-Israeli airstrikes continue to target Iranian military infrastructure more than a month into intensified operations that began in late February 2026. Iranian state media reported explosions in the capital, with the attack focusing on IRGC facilities. No immediate details were released on the exact location within Tehran or whether additional casualties occurred in the strike.

This latest assassination fits a pattern of high-profile targeting of Iranian leadership. Since the escalation, Israel and the U.S. have claimed responsibility for eliminating numerous senior figures, including former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, IRGC Commander-in-Chief Hossein Salami, Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib, National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani, Basij commander Gholamreza Soleimani and naval commander Alireza Tangsiri. Over 1,000 IRGC and security officials have reportedly been killed in the broader campaign, according to Israeli sources.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the operation, vowing to continue the war “with full force” and stating that Israel would keep hunting down regime leaders responsible for attacks on civilians. “The IRGC fires at civilians – and we eliminate the heads of the terrorists,” Katz added in his confirmation.

Iran has vowed retaliation for each high-profile killing. The IRGC and state officials have accused the U.S. and Israel of seeking regime change through targeted assassinations and infrastructure strikes. Tehran has responded with missile and drone attacks on Israeli targets, as well as reported strikes on Gulf energy sites and other regional assets. Mediators are reportedly pushing a 45-day ceasefire proposal that includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil shipments that Iran has threatened to disrupt.

Khademi’s death comes at a sensitive moment for the IRGC, which has seen its command structure repeatedly disrupted. The organization, designated a terrorist group by the U.S. and several allies, oversees Iran’s ballistic missile program, regional proxy militias and internal security apparatus. Intelligence functions under the IRGC have focused on counterintelligence, monitoring perceived domestic threats and supporting overseas operations.

Analysts note that repeated decapitation strikes could impair operational coordination in the short term, though the IRGC’s decentralized structure and deep bench of ideologically committed officers may allow rapid replacements. Iranian officials have repeatedly stated that missile production and defensive capabilities continue despite losses.

The broader conflict erupted after years of shadow warfare, proxy clashes and failed nuclear negotiations. Israel has long viewed Iran’s nuclear program, ballistic missiles and support for groups like Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthis as existential threats. Tehran accuses Israel and the U.S. of aggression aimed at destabilizing the Islamic Republic.

U.S. involvement has intensified under the current administration, with joint operations targeting Iranian military sites. President Donald Trump has issued strong statements on the conflict, including threats of further escalation if Iran does not agree to terms on its nuclear program and regional behavior.

Casualties on both sides have mounted. Iranian reports emphasize civilian and military deaths from Israeli strikes on cities including Tehran, Isfahan and other provinces. Israel has reported damage from Iranian missile barrages, though its air defenses have intercepted many incoming threats.

International reactions have been divided. Western allies have largely supported Israel’s right to defend itself, while Russia, China and some Global South nations have condemned the strikes as violations of sovereignty. Calls for de-escalation have grown, with diplomatic efforts focusing on preventing a wider regional war that could draw in more actors and disrupt global energy markets.

Within Iran, the deaths of successive leaders have tested public morale and regime stability. State media has framed the fallen officials as martyrs, organizing funerals and rallies to rally support. However, reports of internal discontent and economic strain from sanctions and conflict have surfaced, though heavily censored.

Khademi is the latest in a line of IRGC intelligence leaders targeted. His predecessor Kazemi and deputy were killed in June 2025 strikes on Tehran, part of what Israel described as Operation Rising Lion or similar campaigns aimed at degrading Iran’s capabilities.

Military experts suggest the precision of the latest strike indicates advanced Israeli intelligence and possibly assistance from regional partners or cyber capabilities that enabled real-time targeting in the heart of Tehran. Iran has accused Israel of using infiltrators and advanced weaponry, claims Israel neither confirms nor denies.

As the conflict enters its next phase, questions remain about succession within the IRGC intelligence organization. Iranian media has not yet named a replacement, but the Guard has historically promoted from within to maintain continuity.

The strike also highlights vulnerabilities in Iran’s air defenses despite years of investment in Russian and domestic systems. Repeated successful penetrations of Tehran airspace have raised concerns about the effectiveness of layered protections around key sites and leaders.

For ordinary Iranians, the ongoing war has brought blackouts, fuel shortages and fear of further escalation. Many have fled urban centers or stocked up on essentials amid uncertainty.

Diplomats warn that each high-value target eliminated risks provoking more desperate Iranian responses, potentially including asymmetric attacks through proxies or attempts to close key maritime chokepoints.

Israel maintains that its campaign aims to eliminate threats rather than pursue full regime change, though some officials have spoken more ambitiously about reshaping the regional balance of power.

With no immediate ceasefire in sight despite mediation proposals, the killing of Majid Khademi is likely to intensify the cycle of strikes and counterstrikes. Both sides appear prepared for prolonged confrontation, even as the human and economic costs rise.

The IRGC has pledged that Khademi’s “martyrdom” will not go unanswered, signaling potential new retaliatory actions in the coming days. Israeli officials, meanwhile, have reiterated their commitment to continue operations until strategic objectives are met.

This latest development underscores the high-stakes nature of the U.S.-Israeli campaign against Iran’s military leadership and the challenges of achieving lasting deterrence in one of the world’s most volatile regions.

The round was led by the Development Bank of Wales

Advanced skincare and cosmetics company Corryn Biotechnologies has secured a £500,000 equity investment to support commercialisation and scale-up of its cosmetic aftercare products in the UK and US.

The funding round was led by the Development Bank of Wales, with investment from the Wales Technology Seed Fund II and the Wales Angel Co‑Investment Fund, alongside a syndicate of 11 UK, US and Brazilian business angels and SFC Capital Partners.

This latest investment from the Development Bank of Wales follows an earlier investment in March 2024 and will enable Corryn to accelerate commercial traction, scale its manufacturing capabilities and grow its team in Wales as it expands across its priority markets.

Based at the Bay Technology Centre in Port Talbot, Corryn has established clean room manufacturing capabilities, along with advanced fabrication and characterisation laboratories – underpinning its plans to grow hi-tech manufacturing in the region. The company expects the investment to support the creation of nine new jobs in Wales over the coming years, including two roles in the near term and a further seven technically skilled roles as manufacturing scales.

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Corryn’s primary technology is a handheld device used to apply a matrix of extremely fine polymer fibres directly on to the skin, maximising their benefit for a range of care and beauty applications.

These materials provide a breathable, porous covering that conforms to the contours of the skin, and is capable of carrying a range of beneficial additives. The technology has been developed and is finalising regulatory approvals to allow commercial use as a cosmetic, initially in the UK and US market, with expansion to further territories planned in 2027 and beyond.

The company is also building its intellectual property position, with two patents pending connected to its technology and the way materials are combined and manufactured. The business is anchored in Wales but is also developing a presence in the US, where one of its co-founders is based.

The funding comes at a time of strong global demand in the cosmetics and personal care sector. The aesthetics market is currently a multi-billion-dollar market globally and this is expected to continue growing at a significant rate. There have also been some notable exits by companies operating in this space for high multiples of revenues.

Luke Burke, co-founder and chief executive of Corryn Biotechnologies, said: “Having the Development Bank of Wales backing us from an early stage has been hugely important in helping us reach this point. This investment gives us the runway to commercialise and scale in the UK and US, while keeping our manufacturing and job creation firmly rooted here in Port Talbot.

“We’ve already built clean room capability in south Wales, and we’re now focused on growing the team and scaling production as we take the product to market.”

Tom Davies, investment executive at the Development Bank of Wales, said: “Corryn is a standout example of a Wales-based business developing real strength in research, product development and manufacturing. Our early-stage investment in March 2024 enabled the team to advance its product pipeline, and this follow-on funding supports the next phase –commercialisation and scale-up. It also highlights how the Technology Seed Fund can work effectively alongside the Wales Angel Co-investment Fund, providing vital early-stage capital and leveraging support from angel investors.”

Adrian de Courcey, lead investor for the syndicate of business angels, said: “Corryn has developed a compelling product and a clear commercial plan for scaling in the UK and US. The combination of a growing market opportunity, strong execution focus and an established base in Wales made this an attractive investment. I’m pleased to be leading a syndicate of angels to support the team as they commercialise and scale.”

SYDNEY — As Australian Idol 2026 advances toward its grand finale, 21-year-old Kesha Oayda from the Snowy Mountains has captured hearts with her powerhouse vocals, infectious stage presence and unique backstory as a competitive skier turned aspiring pop star.

Known to many as the “singing skier,” Oayda — sometimes referred to with the middle name Nevé — brings a fresh blend of mountain resilience and musical passion to the Channel Seven competition. Here are 10 fun facts about the Jindabyne talent who swapped skis for the spotlight.

1. She hails from the heart of the Snowy Mountains: Born and raised in Jindabyne, New South Wales, Oayda grew up with the ski slopes literally in her backyard. The alpine town, gateway to Australia’s premier snow resorts, shaped her early life with its tight-knit community and outdoor lifestyle.
2. Competitive skier who chose music over snow: Oayda was a promising competitive skier with real potential for a professional career. Yet she always prioritized music as her true calling, describing it as “plan A, B and C.” While many in her region pursue winter sports, she traded training sessions for vocal practice and performances.
3. Musical family roots run deep: She comes from a sporty yet highly musical household. Her father is a musician who nurtured her vocal talent from a young age. Her parents even met at the historic Man From Snowy River Hotel in Jindabyne, a venue where Oayda later performed regularly, creating a full-circle family connection.
4. Local star before national fame: Long before Australian Idol, Oayda was a familiar face in Jindabyne. She won the local Jindy Idol competition at age eight and performed at events like the Peak Festival. She also busked at the local shopping centre, building a loyal hometown following that continues to rally behind her.
5. Audition wowed judges with “Die With A Smile”: Oayda auditioned in early 2026 with a strong rendition of Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars’ “Die With A Smile.” Her confident delivery and natural stage presence earned praise, setting her on a path through the competition’s early rounds.
6. Earned immunity with an Olivia Newton-John classic: During one key round, her emotional cover of “Hopelessly Devoted To You” from Grease impressed the judges enough to grant her immunity and fast-track her into the Top 8. The performance highlighted her ability to connect with classic Australian pop heritage.
7. Powerhouse vocals shine in gospel and pop anthems: Viewers have been left in awe by standout moments such as her church-like rendition of Madonna’s “Like A Prayer” during Top 12 Movie Week and a soul-stirring “Take Me To Church.” She also delivered an infectious, smile-inducing version of Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” in the Top 8.
8. Survived a bottom-four scare in Top 10: In a tense Top 10 episode, Oayda found herself among the four contestants with the fewest public votes and had to sing for survival. She fought back successfully, demonstrating resilience that mirrors her skiing background and earning renewed fan support.
9. Heartbreak fuels her songwriting: Oayda has openly shared that personal experiences, including heartbreak, inspire her original material. She once quipped that dating a musician means risking having a song written about you, revealing a witty, relatable side beyond her polished performances.
10. Overseas adventures shaped her journey: After finishing school, she spent time in New Zealand and the United Kingdom pursuing music. These experiences broadened her perspective before she returned to Australia in 2025, ready to chase her Idol dream with renewed determination and global influences in her sound.

Oayda’s path to the Top 6 in Australian Idol 2026 reflects years of quiet preparation. Fans and judges alike praise her warm, down-to-earth personality, often noting how she boosts others’ confidence with positive “snow talk” and genuine interactions. Her performances blend technical skill with emotional storytelling, whether tackling Sam Smith ballads, emotional tracks like “Lay Me Down,” or upbeat anthems that leave audiences smiling.

The 21-year-old’s dual identity as athlete and artist resonates strongly in a season that celebrates diverse Australian stories. Growing up at altitude in the Snowy Mountains has instilled discipline and lung capacity that serve her well on stage, while her community’s unwavering support provides emotional fuel during high-pressure live shows.

Local pride runs deep in Jindabyne. Residents have followed her progress closely, with many recalling her early gigs at the very hotel where her parents’ romance began. That venue now symbolizes how Oayda’s life has come full circle — from small-town performances to national television.

Her Spotify presence has grown with official releases of Idol performances, including “Die With A Smile,” “Hopelessly Devoted To You,” “Like A Prayer” and others. These tracks give fans a chance to relive standout moments and discover her interpretations of both contemporary hits and timeless favorites.

Beyond the competition, Oayda represents a new wave of Australian talent comfortable blending genres and drawing from personal roots. Her skiing background adds a distinctive visual and narrative element, with media outlets dubbing her the “singing skier from the slopes.” This nickname has stuck, endearing her to viewers who appreciate the contrast between snowy training and sparkling stage lights.

Judges Kyle Sandilands, Marcia Hines and Amy Shark have highlighted her natural presence and vocal range. Guest themes have allowed her to showcase versatility, from movie soundtracks to Aussie Week tributes. Even when facing setbacks like the Top 10 close call, she has returned with poise and stronger performances.

As the season nears its mid-April climax, Oayda remains in the Top 6 alongside contenders such as Harlan Goode, Kalani Artis and Jacinta Guirguis. Public voting will decide the ultimate winner, but her journey has already opened doors to broader recognition.

Industry observers note that contestants with genuine backstories and consistent delivery, like Oayda, often translate reality TV exposure into sustainable careers. Her mix of pop power, emotional depth and relatable charm positions her well for future releases, tours or further television opportunities.

Oayda has spoken about the dream-like quality of competing on Idol, a show she followed for years before auditioning. The opportunity arrived after careful preparation, including overseas stints that honed her skills away from the familiar mountain environment.

Her positivity shines through in interactions. Commentators and fellow contestants have mentioned how she lifts the room’s energy, whether chatting with judges or encouraging others backstage. This sunny disposition, combined with vocal firepower, makes her a favorite among younger and older viewers alike.

The broader Australian Idol 2026 narrative celebrates resilience and transformation. For Oayda, the competition validates choosing music over a potential skiing path while honoring the discipline both pursuits demand. She continues to draw inspiration from her Snowy Mountains home, where altitude training may have given her an edge in sustaining powerful notes.

With the finale approaching, fans are encouraged to vote via the 7plus app or official channels. Oayda’s supporters highlight her authenticity, vocal strength and ability to deliver chills one moment and pure joy the next.

Whether she claims the title or not, Kesha Oayda has already achieved something special: turning a small-town passion into a national conversation. Her fun facts reveal a multifaceted young woman — skier, singer, songwriter, community champion and rising star — whose journey inspires anyone chasing an unlikely dream.

From early Jindy Idol wins to Top 6 contention, her story underscores music’s power to transport someone from snowy slopes to center stage. As Australia tunes in for the final episodes, Oayda’s performances promise more memorable moments grounded in heart, heritage and hard-won talent.

The ​S&P 500 ​and the Nasdaq ​opened higher on Monday after the indexes marked ‌their ⁠biggest ⁠weekly jump in ​four months in the last ​session, while investors assessed prospects of an ​end to ⁠the Middle ‌East ​conflict. The ​Dow Jones ⁠Industrial Average fell 32.5 points, ​or 0.07%, at the ​open to 46,472.2. The S&P 500 rose 5.0 points, or ‌0.08%, at the open to ​6,587.66, while ​the ⁠Nasdaq Composite rose 60.6 points, or 0.28%, to 21,939.796 ​at the opening bell. Read more

OPEC+ announced on Sunday that it will raise oil production quotas by 206,000 barrels per day in May, a modest increase that may have little immediate impact due to ongoing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

The strategic waterway, which handles a large share of the world’s oil exports, has been effectively closed since late February because of the US-Israeli conflict with Iran.

The closure has heavily affected OPEC+ members Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Iraq, all of which were among the few able to increase production before the conflict.

As a result, global crude prices have surged to nearly $120 per barrel, putting pressure on transportation costs and consumers worldwide, NY Post reported.

The planned quota increase, less than 2% of the supply lost due to the Hormuz blockade, is largely symbolic for now.

“When the Strait of Hormuz is closed, additional barrels from OPEC+ become largely irrelevant,” said Jorge Leon, a former OPEC official and head of geopolitical analysis at Rystad Energy.

Analysts describe the move as a signal of readiness rather than a solution to immediate supply challenges.

OPEC+ Agrees on Modest May Oil Quota Increase

Eight OPEC+ members agreed to the May quota increase during a virtual meeting on Sunday.

Other producers, including Russia, are unable to raise output due to Western sanctions and infrastructure damage caused by the war in Ukraine.

Within the Gulf, missile and drone attacks have caused significant harm to oil facilities, and officials warn it could take months to return to normal production even if the strait reopens.

According to CNA, a separate OPEC+ panel, the Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee, highlighted the high cost of repairing energy assets, noting that these attacks continue to strain supply.

Despite some exceptions, such as Iraq, where tankers have been allowed through the strait, overall transportation remains risky and limited.

May’s production increase mirrors the April adjustment agreed upon as the conflict began to disrupt exports.

Analysts estimate that the ongoing disruption has removed as much as 12 to 15 million barrels per day—around 15% of global supply—raising fears that prices could climb above $150 per barrel if flows remain blocked into mid-May, according to JPMorgan.

OPEC+, which includes 22 members, has focused recent monthly production decisions on eight key countries.

These nations raised quotas by about 2.9 million barrels per day from April to December 2025 but paused increases in early 2026. The group will meet again on May 3 to review conditions and potential adjustments.

Originally published on vcpost.com

As NASA’s Artemis II crew hurtles toward the Moon aboard the Orion spacecraft, the four astronauts are preparing for a six-hour lunar flyby on Monday that will offer humanity’s first direct human-eye views of previously unseen portions of the lunar far side and specific illuminated terrains never observed by Apollo crews.

Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, Mission Specialist Christina Koch and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen launched April 1 on the roughly 10-day test flight, the first crewed deep-space mission since Apollo 17 in 1972. On Monday, April 6, Orion is scheduled to swing within about 4,000 miles (6,400 kilometers) of the lunar surface during a free-return trajectory that will slingshot the crew back toward Earth without entering lunar orbit.

The flyby window, running approximately from 2:45 p.m. to 9:40 p.m. EDT, positions Orion’s windows toward the Moon for targeted observations. NASA science teams in Houston have finalized a lunar targeting plan identifying roughly 35 geological features for the crew to photograph and describe in real time. Many of these targets lie on the far side — the hemisphere perpetually facing away from Earth — where lighting conditions during this particular pass will reveal details Apollo astronauts could not witness due to their orbital paths and timing.

The far side of the Moon differs dramatically from the familiar near side. It features fewer dark “seas” or maria and is dominated by rugged highlands densely pocked with craters. Because the Moon is tidally locked, the far side remains invisible from Earth. Robotic orbiters have mapped it extensively, but no human has seen large swaths with their own eyes under the specific illumination Artemis II will provide.

Astronauts have already shared early glimpses and reactions. In interviews from space, Koch described the Moon appearing “not the moon that I’m used to seeing,” noting differences in texture and contrast as the crew compared live views to training materials. Wiseman, using a telephoto lens during a preview pass, expressed excitement while rattling off recognizable sites and new vistas. The crew’s high-resolution photography will complement data from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, offering fresh perspectives on surface features.

Scientists are particularly eager for observations of lunar highlands, ancient impact basins and potential volcanic or tectonic features on the far side. One highlight could include enhanced views near the lunar “Grand Canyon” — vast canyon-like structures or rilles visible under the flyby’s geometry. The trajectory also enables detailed imaging of regions in the southern polar areas and equatorial far-side highlands that Apollo missions largely missed due to their equatorial orbits and limited far-side exposure.

The unique vantage stems from Artemis II’s free-return trajectory, which sends Orion on a looping path around the Moon’s far side before Earth’s gravity pulls it home. At closest approach, the Moon will appear roughly the size of a basketball held at arm’s length from the spacecraft windows. This distance — farther than Apollo crews typically flew during similar maneuvers — combined with modern camera technology and crew training, allows for unprecedented documentation.

A rare bonus awaits toward the end of the flyby: the crew may witness a solar eclipse from deep space as the alignment of Orion, the Moon and the Sun creates dramatic lighting shifts. Communications blackouts will occur as Orion passes behind the Moon, testing deep-space relay systems while the astronauts rely on onboard autonomy.

Mission planners coordinated the targeting plan after the successful translunar injection burn that propelled Orion out of Earth orbit. With the first outbound trajectory correction burn canceled due to precise navigation, the crew has focused on cabin preparations, exercise, medical drills and systems checks. They have shared striking images of a crescent Earth shrinking in the distance and the growing Moon filling their viewports.

The diverse crew brings historic firsts: Glover as the first Black astronaut on a lunar trajectory, Koch as the first woman, and Hansen as the first non-American. Their varied backgrounds — test pilots, engineers and researchers — enhance real-time scientific input during observations. Wiseman, a veteran of a prior space station mission, leads the team with emphasis on both mission success and public engagement through downlinked commentary.

Artemis II serves as a critical dress rehearsal for future landings. Data from the flyby will validate Orion’s thermal protection, life support, navigation and radiation shielding in the deep-space environment. The mission builds on the uncrewed Artemis I flight in 2022, adding human factors evaluation essential for Artemis III’s planned surface landing.

Public fascination has surged with live streams and crew-shared photos drawing millions of viewers. Social media buzz highlights the emotional weight of seeing Earth as a distant marble and the Moon’s rugged far side up close. NASA has released visualizations simulating the crew’s window views, showing the gradual reveal of far-side terrain as Orion arcs past.

Challenges remain. The crew has managed minor issues, including troubleshooting the spacecraft’s urine vent line in vacuum conditions. Radiation exposure in deep space exceeds low-Earth orbit levels, prompting use of Orion’s shelter and monitoring. Yet mission managers report systems performing well and the crew in high spirits.

After the flyby, Orion will use lunar gravity to begin its return journey, with splashdown targeted for April 10 off San Diego. The high-speed re-entry will further test the heat shield under crewed conditions.

International partners play key roles. The European Space Agency provided the service module powering much of the journey, while Canada contributed through Hansen’s participation. The mission underscores Artemis as a collaborative program aimed at sustainable lunar exploration, including eventual south pole landings and a Gateway outpost.

Scientists anticipate the crew’s observations will refine understanding of lunar geology, resource potential and landing site safety. Far-side data could inform future missions targeting areas shielded from Earth’s radio interference — ideal for radio astronomy — or volatile-rich polar regions.

As Monday’s flyby approaches, the Artemis II team continues refining the observation schedule based on real-time trajectory data. The astronauts will use handheld cameras and spacecraft systems to capture high-resolution imagery and provide verbal descriptions, adding a human dimension to robotic surveys.

This moment revives the spirit of Apollo while advancing 21st-century goals. Unlike the race-driven Apollo era, Artemis emphasizes long-term presence, science return and inclusivity. The crew’s views of unseen lunar landscapes symbolize humanity’s renewed commitment to exploration beyond Earth.

For the astronauts, the experience blends technical precision with profound wonder. Early comments reveal awe at the Moon’s stark beauty and the isolation of deep space. Their documentation will not only advance science but inspire future generations.

With Orion healthy and the crew primed, Artemis II stands poised to deliver historic images and insights. The flyby represents more than a waypoint — it is a bridge between past lunar triumphs and future voyages to the Moon and, eventually, Mars.

NASA continues real-time coverage through its website, NASA+ and social channels. As the crew prepares for their close encounter with the Moon, the world awaits the first human perspectives on long-hidden lunar realms.

SYDNEY — As Australian Idol 2026 reaches its thrilling Top 6 stage, 25-year-old Jacinta Guirguis from Bacchus Marsh, Victoria, has quietly emerged as one of the season’s most inspiring and distinctive contestants. The former forklift driver, known for her unique vocal style and commanding yet understated stage presence, has captured national attention with her journey from warehouse floors to live television.

Guirguis, who auditioned with Gotye and Kimbra’s “Somebody That I Used To Know” and earned a Golden Ticket, represents resilience, vulnerability and small-town determination. Here are 10 fun facts about the Victorian singer-songwriter whose story resonates far beyond the Idol stage.

1. Hometown pride in Bacchus Marsh: Guirguis was born and raised in Bacchus Marsh, a close-knit rural town in Victoria about 50 kilometers west of Melbourne. She has lived there her entire life, drawing strength from the supportive local community that has rallied behind her with voting drives and proud messages.
2. Forklift driver by day, singer by heart: Before Idol, Guirguis worked as a forklift operator in a warehouse. Colleagues and her employer Komatsu Australia celebrated her audition, sharing videos of her transition from the warehouse floor to the national spotlight. The contrast between her practical day job and artistic dreams has endeared her to many viewers.
3. Overcame debilitating anxiety: Diagnosed with a severe anxiety disorder six years ago, Guirguis faced significant self-doubt and was told by some that she “didn’t belong” in music. It took years of hard work to build the confidence to audition for Idol. She has spoken openly about how the disorder nearly stopped her from pursuing her passion, making her progress even more remarkable.
4. Twin sister Chantel is her biggest supporter: Guirguis shares an incredibly close bond with her twin sister Chantel, whom she calls her best friend. Chantel has been by her side through every high and low, watching family reactions to the audition and cheering her on during live shows. The twins’ connection has been highlighted in emotional social media posts.
5. Third time lucky with Idol auditions: This was not Guirguis’s first attempt at Australian Idol. She applied multiple times before finally making it through in 2026. Her persistence paid off when she advanced through auditions and reached the Top 12, proving that determination can turn long-held dreams into reality.
6. Unique indie-pop voice stands out: Judges and fans praise Guirguis for her distinctive sound that blends indie, pop and emotional depth. Standout performances include covers of “Don’t Speak” by No Doubt, “Everywhere” by Fleetwood Mac (Christine McVie), “Dreams,” “The Power of Love” and Ariana Grande’s “Problem.” Her interpretations often feel fresh and personal.
7. Local talent with early ambitions: Even as a teenager, Guirguis dreamed of a music career. In a 2018 local interview at age 18, she spoke about wanting to perform live more, post singing videos online and record originals. She attended Catholic Regional College Melton and later studied music at RMIT, laying the groundwork for her Idol breakthrough.
8. Makeover moment boosted confidence: During the show’s transformation week, Guirguis swapped oversized hoodies for a bolder look that matched her growing stage presence. The change, combined with her vocal growth, helped her shine in live rounds and reflected her personal journey from self-doubt to self-assurance.
9. Family and community fuel her fire: Guirguis frequently shares heartwarming videos of her family and friends reacting to her performances. Bacchus Marsh locals have followed her closely, with many calling her the town’s own Idol star. She credits their support — and her family’s unwavering belief — for helping her push through nerves.
10. Represents vulnerability and authenticity: In a competition full of big personalities, Guirguis stands out for her quiet strength and willingness to discuss mental health openly. She has said she hopes her story encourages others facing anxiety or self-doubt to keep chasing dreams. Fans often describe her as relatable, genuine and a breath of fresh air.

Guirguis’s path to the Top 6 in Australian Idol 2026 embodies the show’s core themes of talent, transformation and triumph over adversity. At 25 (some reports list her as 26 during the live shows), she balances a grounded personality with a powerful voice that has earned repeated praise from judges Kyle Sandilands, Marcia Hines and Amy Shark.

Her audition moment, where she introduced herself as a 25-year-old forklift operator from “Bakkies Lash” (her affectionate pronunciation of Bacchus Marsh), immediately won over audiences with its charm and honesty. Advancing through Top 30 rounds with songs like “Fields of Gold,” “Problem” and “Don’t Speak,” she consistently demonstrated growth and emotional connection.

The Victorian contestant’s Spotify releases of Idol performances — including “Everywhere,” “Dreams,” “The Power of Love” and “Don’t Speak” — have allowed fans to revisit her interpretations and discover her artistry outside the live broadcasts. These tracks showcase her ability to make familiar songs feel intimate and new.

Living the dream on national television has already opened doors for Guirguis. She has spoken about the experience validating years of quiet preparation and hard work in a regional town where opportunities can feel limited. Her employer’s public support and local media coverage in outlets like The Moorabool News have amplified community pride.

Guirguis’s story also highlights broader conversations around mental health in the entertainment industry. By sharing her six-year battle with anxiety, she has turned personal struggle into public inspiration, proving that vulnerability can coexist with strength on a high-pressure stage.

As the grand finale approaches in mid-April, Guirguis remains in contention alongside strong talents such as Harlan Goode, Kalani Artis and Kesha Oayda. Public voting will decide the winner, but her journey has already marked her as a favorite for many who appreciate authentic artists with real backstories.

Industry watchers note that contestants like Guirguis, who combine vocal skill with genuine relatability, often build sustainable careers post-Idol through original music, tours and media work. Her indie-leaning style and songwriting ambitions position her well for future releases.

Back home in Bacchus Marsh, residents continue to host viewing parties and voting campaigns. Guirguis has expressed deep gratitude for the town’s backing, saying it makes the surreal experience feel grounded.

The 2026 season, hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie on Channel Seven and 7plus, has celebrated diverse Australian voices. Guirguis exemplifies how everyday heroes — warehouse workers, regional talents and those overcoming internal battles — can shine under the spotlight.

Her performances have evolved from nervous but promising auditions to confident deliveries that command attention. Whether tackling emotional ballads or upbeat tracks, she infuses each with personal touch that resonates with viewers.

As voting intensifies for the remaining episodes, supporters are urged to back Guirguis through the 7plus app or official channels. Her presence has enriched the competition, reminding audiences that success often comes after years of unseen effort.

From forklift shifts to live shows watched by millions, Jacinta Guirguis’s Idol run illustrates music’s transformative power. Her 10 fun facts reveal a multifaceted young woman: resilient, talented, supported by loved ones and bravely authentic.

Whatever the finale outcome, Guirguis has already achieved something profound — proving doubters wrong and inspiring others to pursue dreams despite anxiety or obstacles. Her quiet contender status may just turn into a loud success story that echoes well beyond 2026.