Already an accomplished songwriter, musician and global superstar, it is hard to think of someone more inspiring than Nandi Bushell – and even harder to believe that she is just 12 years old. 

The Ipswich schoolgirl shot to fame after her father, John Bushell, began posting videos of her playing drum covers of popular songs.  

The young talent caught the eye of huge names in the music industry – Questlove, Anderson .Paak and Lenny Kravitz, to name just a few. 

In 2021, Nandi took to the stage with David Grohl and Foo Fighters in Los Angeles, and has now performed at the O2 Arena, Wembley Stadium and Buckingham Palace for the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. 

As a homegrown star, she is a huge inspiration to other girls with big dreams. 

“It makes me proud to know that I am inspiring other children,” said Nandi. 

Nandi will be included as one of the inspiring women in the latest ‘Rebel Girls’ anthology and on the front cover. This is a global series of books, dedicated to amplifying the stories of real-life women to empower girls to dream big. 

“I found out about three months ago,” said Nandi. “I was super excited, because I always read the books.” 

Ipswich Star: Nandi Bushell was delighted to be part of the latest Rebel Girls book, a series which seek to inspire young girls by telling the stories of inspirational women. Credit: Rebel GirlNandi Bushell was delighted to be part of the latest Rebel Girls book, a series which seek to inspire young girls by telling the stories of inspirational women. Credit: Rebel Girl (Image: Rebel Girls)

Ipswich Star: Nandi Bushel has made the front cover of the latest Rebel Girls book, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Dolly Parton. Credit: Rebel GirlsNandi Bushel has made the front cover of the latest Rebel Girls book, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Dolly Parton. Credit: Rebel Girls (Image: Rebel Girls)

She hopes that her story will encourage other girls not to give up on chasing their dreams. 

“You can do anything you put your mind to. And just have fun, and love what you are doing!” 

Nandi herself has been inspired by other women achieving their goals. 

“I look up to Sheila E., because she was really inspirational to other women in a male dominated industry,” Nandi explained. 

“She’s an amazing drummer, too. I also look up to Rayssa Leal, who’s a Brazilian skateboarder. She is so incredible at skateboarding, and she’s really nice. She’s so inspirational. 

Nandi's future is certainly bright. 

“2023 holds new songs that I’m releasing,” she said. “I’m going to release an EP, have lots fun, and I’m really excited for the future.”