Back in November Mariam Mamadashvili broke a new record when she won the Junior Eurovision Song Contest for Georgia for the third time with her song Mzeo. Mariam was given a hero's welcome when she returned to Georgia following her victory in the competition and we caught up with her to find out what she's been up to since.
Mariam Mamadashvili is ten years old and has been performing since she was four years old. She studied at the Bzikebistudio in Georgia and also the Evgeni Mikeladze State Central Music School. Mariam has lived in the United States since 2015 and studies at the Broadway Method Academy. Over the years she has also appeared on television and given numerous public performances.
What have you been up to since you won Junior Eurovision?
After winning Junior Eurovision Song Contest I went back to Georgia. When I got to the airport there were tons of people waiting for me cheering for me and singing my song. It was amazing to see so many supporters there. The past two months have been incredible. People now recognise me in the streets and I receive hundreds of messages. I had numerous invitations to participate in various concerts and TV shows. It is an amazing feeling to see how many people are proud of me.
What was your favourite memory of the week?
Junior Eurovision in an amazing experience. I am so happy and so proud that I was a part of it. Every day there was something new. The most unforgettable moment for me was when I won competition and every contestant started singing the song with me when I got emotional. It was such an exciting and emotional moment for me and I am so grateful for their support.
What advice would you give someone who is thinking about participating in 2017?
Participation in Junior Eurovision is a huge responsibility and a big opportunity for children. It is also a lot of fun. Making new friends, working with professionals and getting this amazing experience as a singer is just wonderful. It was my dream to participate in Junior Eurovision some day and my dream came true. Junior Eurovision is not just about winning, it is a celebration for kids. So it does not matter who gets the first place or who gets the last. The most important thing is to enjoy the experience, have fun and do the best you can. I wish the best of luck to the participants in 2017. I hope that they have as much fun as I did and truly enjoy the experience.
