Yuval Raphael – יובל רפאל

Yuval Raphael, born on November 5, 2000, in Ra’anana, Israel, is a promising Israeli singer whose journey has been marked by both incredible talent and resilience. At 24, she gained widespread recognition after winning the 11th season of “HaKokhav HaBa” (“The Next Star”), Israel’s most prestigious talent show. This victory earned her the honor of representing Israel at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 in Basel, Switzerland.

Yuval’s life took a dramatic turn in October 2023 during the Nova music festival near Re’im, when Hamas militants launched a devastating attack. Showing remarkable bravery, Yuval survived by hiding beneath the bodies of others for eight hours, suffering shrapnel injuries. This traumatic experience has deeply shaped her personal growth and artistic vision.

Raised in Geneva, Switzerland, for part of her childhood, Yuval was exposed to a wide range of musical influences, from rock legends like Led Zeppelin and Scorpions to pop icons such as Beyoncé and Celine Dion. This diverse exposure helped shape her distinctive musical style. She officially began her professional career in 2024, captivating audiences with her powerful voice and emotional depth.

Yuval Raphael’s incredible story—rising from personal adversity to international recognition—is a testament to her strength and passion. As she prepares for her Eurovision debut, her fans eagerly await the emotional power and authenticity she is sure to bring to the stage.