Shawna Masuda, a 21-year-old 'Aiea High School graduate who has starred in a number of theatrical musicals here, has been awarded the first Diamond Head International Music Festival & Conference scholarship.

The award is for $2,500 to further her career.

Ron Gibson, president of the nonprofit organization, said Masuda is "an outstanding example of someone with born talent and professional aspirations."

The Diamond Head International Music Festival & Conference not only presents musical events in the Diamond Head Crater for residents and visitors but also provides support for aspiring young Hawai'i performers to further their studies and careers.

Masuda is appearing as Amneris in Army Community Theatre's production of "Aida," which runs through Saturday at Richardson Theatre at Fort Shafter. Her earlier roles have included Kim in "Miss Saigon" and Beauty in "Beauty and the Beast."

She is completing her degree in cosmetology at Honolulu Community College and plans to use the scholarship to continue her musical theater studies and pursue a CD project to demonstrate the depth of her performing abilities.

Gibson said inspiration for the scholarship program came from Gov. Linda Lingle's 2007 State of the State address in which she announced the MELE Program to encourage the recording industry and spoke of local talent.