PHUKET, Thailand – Sixteen-year-old Thai rocker Nene Royal has returned to the classroom in Phuket after spending several days in the United States competing on America’s Got Talent, where her powerful performances earned international attention and a place in the show’s grand final.
Nene Royal, whose real name is Rattikarn “Praew” Amloy, returned to Phuket on August 28 after completing her appearance in the live shows of America’s Got Talent Season 21.
Just three days later, on August 31, she was back at Kajonkiet International School Phuket for her first day of classes following her extended absence. The school welcomed her return with a message from school executive Permkiat Kesakul, who wrote, “Welcome home Praew (Nene)!! Welcome back to KIS!!!” and welcomed her home and back to school.
Nene had previously said after arriving back in Phuket that she was looking forward to returning to school because she had missed several days of classes while competing in the United States.
Her return comes after a remarkable run on America’s Got Talent. The 16-year-old guitarist and singer from Phuket first attracted widespread attention during her audition with a rock performance of The Cranberries’ “Zombie.” She later advanced through the competition with a performance of Muse’s “Hysteria.”
In the live quarterfinals, Nene performed Soundgarden’s “Black Hole Sun,” delivering another strong vocal and guitar performance that impressed the judges. Howie Mandel praised her talent, while Sofia Vergara said she had the potential to win the competition. Mel B ultimately pressed the Live Golden Buzzer for Nene, sending the young Thai rocker directly through to the grand final. The achievement has attracted widespread attention in Thailand and overseas, with international music media highlighting her guitar skills, vocals and distinctive rock style.
Despite the international spotlight, Nene’s return to Phuket has brought her back to an ordinary part of teenage life: going to school, seeing classmates and continuing her education. Her journey from Phuket to one of the world’s biggest televised talent competitions has already made her a source of pride for her hometown, while her return to the classroom shows that her musical success has not taken her away from her life as a student.
With the America’s Got Talent final still ahead, Nene now has the opportunity to prepare for the next stage of the competition while continuing her studies at KIS in Phuket.
