Say Hello to Australia’s newest Eurovision Song Contestant

Talented performer Jael Wena has been announced as Australia’s representative for the Junior Eurovision Song Content 2018, with ABC ME broadcasting the event for the second year.

12-year-old Jael who was born and raised in Melbourne, began singing and wrote her first song at the age of four, and by the time she was nine she was already recording in her dad’s studio.

Interested in a wide range of music genres, including pop, hip hop, contemporary and gospel music – Jael won the top award at the Fast Track Talent Showcase for three years running and aims to inspire others through her positive uplifting music and attitude.

Jael will be hoping to follow on from the breakthrough success of Isabella Clarke in 2017, who placed third with her song Speak Up.

To be held on Sunday 25 November at the Minsk Arena, Belarus, ABC ME will broadcast all the incredible performances of the 16th JESC competition during a very special family television event on Monday November 26 at 6pm.

“When I found out I was selected to represent Australia at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest I couldn’t believe it. I knew that I had been put forward, but I was hoping and praying every night when I went to bed that it would be me.” said Jael Wena.

“When we got the news I just fell down on the floor laughing and crying. I am just so happy and excited to be representing my country and I am going to try my hardest to make my country proud,”

Joining Jael in Minsk will be ABC ME’s host, Grace Koh, who will share daily updates as the competition unfolds. On Monday 26 November, Grace will be joined by Pip Rasmussen and Lawrence Gunatilaka for the ABC ME broadcast.

The first JESC took place in Copenhagen in 2003 and this year 20 countries will send their most talented 9 to14-year-old performers to compete for the coveted title. This will be the highest number of participating countries in the events history. #LightUp! is the creative theme of this year’s event with its artwork celebrating the artistic potential and creative drive of the young Junior Eurovision participants who no doubt be turning the stage into something magical, like a sky full of stars.

ABC ME, the ABC ME app and ABC iview will broadcast the JESC 2018 on Monday 26 November at 6.00pm.

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