When 12-year-old Jael performed power-pop anthem “Champion” at this year’s Junior Eurovision Song Contest in the Belarusian capital of Minsk, no-one was more proud.
“It’s the greatest honour I could have,” the young singer tells TV WEEK.
Jael says her song “Champion” is about speaking your truth.
“I often speak up when I see things I feel aren’t right, like bullying or inappropriate behaviour,” she says.
“I’m not afraid to stand up for myself.”
Jael at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest.
Looking wise beyond her years in a dazzling silver dress, the Melbourne schoolgirl came in third place at the competition, which took place overnight.
Although she might have missed out on the win on 201 points, the singer was ecstatic with her performance, taking to Instagram to thank the events participants and judges.
“I cannot believe tonight, I am absolutely overwhelmed – to get third place overall is absolutely unbelievable – is absolutely insane” she said.
“Thank you to each country’s jury that participated and delivered in part this result, to absolutely everybody who voted, to every single participant in the year’s contest who I can now all call my friends”
Jael gave the competition her all.
Incredibly thankful for the experience, Jael also reached out to thank her supporters .
“I want to say thank you to everybody reading this post right now. Everybody who voted for Australia. Everybody who sent messages of support and wishes – I never thought I could have the backing of so many, from all the corners of Europe and of the world”
Polish 13-year-old Roksana Węgiel was crowned the winner of the evening with 215 points for her performance of “Anyone I Want To Be”. Fans of the young singer would also recognise her as the first winner of The Voice Kids Poland.
France’s Angélina came in a close second, with a total of 203 points.
Congratulations to Jael!
