Harveen has a varied career with stage credits such as Bend it like Beckham, Privates on Parade, The Thing About Tom, Election Idol and The Witches. Her TV work includes Doctors and BBC’s Lee Nelson’s Well Good Show. She has also been a backing vocalist for ITV’s X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent. Harveen is currently appearing in School of Rock in South Korea.

We caught up with her after graduation to find out what receiving her ARAM meant to her.

What impact has the Academy had on your life?

The moment my acceptance letter landed on my doorstep, I knew my life was about to change. I had always dreamed of studying at the Academy and was convinced that it was the only school that would give me the top-class training I was craving.

After graduating 10 years ago, I was asked to work as an assistant for the Musical Theatre department. I was able to use the skills I had gained as a performer, alongside my administration and organisational skills, and give back to the institution I feel so strongly about it.

How do you feel about being made an ARAM?

I am still completely and utterly overwhelmed by this honour. If someone had told me when I had my audition here that I would be made an ARAM 11 years later, I would never have believed them.

I have been so lucky with the roles I have had and the shows that I have been in, and being recognised for it means the world to me. The Academy will have a very special place in my heart for the rest of my life.

What advice would you give to new graduates?

Work, work, work, every day of your lives. Sing, dance and create work for yourself. Do everything you can to keep your skills up and have a creative output.

Also, remember that there is life outside of the audition room, so don't feel downhearted if you don't get a job. There are lots more out there. Don't take it personally. It's just a puzzle that the creative team is trying to put together. This has just as much to do with personality as it does talent.

Keep networking, practising and reminding yourself why you love what you do!

Photo by Frances Marshall