15-year-old bullied girl earns 'golden buzzer' from judge for a magnificent performance

A talented teenage girl gave an incredible performance in America’s Got Talent and received a standing ovation from the judges and audience.

Amanda Mena told the judges that when she moved to the United States from the Dominican Republic at age 4, she “didn’t know a word of English,” and that made it really hard for her to fit with the other kids in school.

The 15-year-old got the Golden Buzzer on America’s Got Talent on June 19 after her performance of Aretha Franklin‘s 1967 classic “(You Make Me Feel) Like A Natural Woman” completely dazzled the audience and judges, as can be seen in this Youtube video.

“I got bullied a lot,” she said. “So, all that kinda gave me a tough skin.” Amanda credited music and her mother for helping her get through those tough times and admitted she was nervous at the prospect of singing in front of the judges and the audience.

Despite her nervousness, the crowd began cheering right away as Amanda sang in a powerful, soulful voice, effortlessly nailing the difficult tune. She did so well that the judges laughed in disbelief during her performance

After the audience stood and applauded, Howie Mandel called her a “supernatural talent.” Head judge Simon Cowell was equally wowed by this talented teen, praising her tenacity and telling her what a great voice she has.

"Do you know what you have, Amanda?” asked Simon Cowell. “You have genuinely natural soul. You really, really do. I mean, that’s not an easy song to sing. This is an audition we’re going to remember for a long time, Amanda”

But before any of the judges could vote, Mel B slammed down the Golden Buzzer, skipping Mena straight to the live shows in Hollywood.

“This is what I’m going to say to all those bullies!” said Mel B and then pressed the Golden Buzzer. Amanda was understandably overwhelmed with joy as gold confetti rained down from the ceiling that she started crying tears of happiness. Read more on our Twitter account @amomama_usa