Marilla was voted 'International Artist of the Year' and her album 'I Believe in You' received the accolade of 'International Album of the Year ' and the song ' Were you there,' featured on the album, took the award for 'Best Song of the Year' at the ninth UCMVA (United Catholic Music and Video Association) Unity awards ceremony held at Loyola University in New Orleans, USA, on 25th October 2008

The association was set up to support. encourage and promote the development of all forms of Catholic music and the Unity awards for which votes were invited from all association members are designed to recognise the achievements and excellence in various categories of music and video.

Asked for her reaction, Marilla said, " I was absolutely thrilled to receive three awards especially as the nominations came from people involved in the music scene in the USA. It's great to know my work and ministry are enjoyed and appreciated by fellow artists and other music professionals."