Four years into her solo journey as a gospel recording artiste, Treze-Gaye Smith believes that the work that she set out to do is truly getting recognition.

A few weeks ago, when she learnt about her nomination in the Breakout Sensation of the Year category, Smith said the accolade is a major milestone for her career-wise.

“One of the highest points of my career has been releasing my music and seeing it minister to people far beyond my immediate circle. Being recognised with a Sterling Gospel Award nomination is also a major milestone. It’s a humbling reminder that the work is making an impact. It also signifies that the message that God has placed in me is being heard. This is also encouragement to keep pressing forward, and it affirms that obedience to God’s call will always bear fruit in His time,” Smith told the Jamaica Observer on Friday.

Smith will compete with Gilead Collective, Minister D Brown, and Genesis Praise Squad for the Breakout Sensation of the Year award.

“Honestly, I was overwhelmed with gratitude when I heard that I had been nominated. I paused and just thanked God, because it reminded me that none of this is about me. It’s about Him using me as a vessel. I was genuinely in awe,” said Smith.

Prior to embarking on a solo career Smith was a part of multiple groups.

“Yes, I’ve been a part of groups since I was in high school, and I was always singing in church choirs and different ministry settings, but stepping out in 2021 marked the beginning of my official solo journey as a recording artiste. The journey has been both rewarding and challenging. There have been moments of stretching, growth, and learning, but also moments of deep fulfillment. Seeing how the music touches lives and draws people closer to God keeps me going,” Smith disclosed.

The daughter of a pastor, Smith gave her life to the Lord during her teenage years.

“My life has been for God for as long as I can remember, because my father is a pastor. However, I was 14 years old when I made it official. From then, my faith has been the foundation of everything I do, including my music,” said Smith.

Originally from Christiana, Manchester, she attended Knox College, then pursued her bachelor’s degree at The University of the West Indies. She is currently a final year master’s student.

Although she hasn’t released a full body of work yet, Smith says each song that she has put out represents a piece of her journey.

Last year, she released Tek it Fada, a gospel-soca fusion which impacted the gospel music space. However, there’s new music on the way.

“Yes, I’m currently working on new music that I’m really excited about. My aim is to release more songs and eventually a full body of work that tells a complete story of faith, hope, and worship,” Smith shared.

She worships at the Devon Restored Church of God in Manchester, where she also serves in ministry.

“My church has been a strong foundation for my growth both spiritually and musically,” she shared.

The 9th annual Sterling Gospel Music Awards will take place on Saturday, October 4, at Emmanuel Apostolic Church on Braeton Parkway, Portmore, St Catherine.