Yuval Raphael, a 24-year-old singer from Ra’anana, Israel, has been selected to represent Israel at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 in Basel, Switzerland. Her journey to this prestigious stage is a testament to resilience and the healing power of music.
In October 2023, Yuval attended the Nova music festival in Re’im, which tragically became the site of a deadly attack. During the assault, she sustained shrapnel injuries and survived by hiding under bodies in a bomb shelter for several hours. Reflecting on this harrowing experience, Yuval has emphasized how music became a crucial part of her recovery process.
Following the tragedy, Yuval auditioned for the eleventh season of “HaKokhav HaBa” (Rising Star), Israel’s national selection for Eurovision. Her powerful performances, including a ballad rendition of ABBA’s “Dancing Queen” dedicated to the victims of the Nova attack, captivated both judges and viewers. On January 22, 2025, she won the competition, securing her spot as Israel’s representative for Eurovision 2025.
Yuval’s selection has garnered widespread support, with many praising her courage and talent. As she prepares for the Eurovision stage, a committee will collaborate with her to choose the song she will perform, with an announcement expected in March.
Beyond her musical pursuits, Yuval has become an advocate for survivors of violence, sharing her story on international platforms, including a speech before the United Nations Human Rights Council. Her journey from surviving a traumatic event to representing her country on one of the world’s biggest stages serves as an inspiring testament to the strength of the human spirit.
As the Eurovision Song Contest approaches, audiences around the globe eagerly anticipate Yuval Raphael’s performance, recognizing the profound narrative she brings to the stage.
