Back in September, Sofia Rol won the Ukrainian national for Junior Eurovision with her ”Planet craves for love”. She took the time to talk to ESCBubble about her participation in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest and her new song:

What was your first reaction when you were told that you would represent your country at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2016?

To be honest, I didn’t expect that. I even don’t remember properly the moment when I was named the winner of the Ukrainian national selection. I was absolutely delighted.

How did your friends and family react when they found out that you would represent Ukraine in Valletta?

It was very emotional for my parents. If you wish you can watch the video on my FB page and see their reaction, here. There were tears, joy, very mixed emotions, but of course in a good way. My friends were extremely happy. All of them congratulated me. I am very grateful for their support.

What does it mean to you to get the chance to represent your country at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest?

This year it was my second attempt to represent Ukraine at Junior Eurovision. I am a very ambitious person. It was my dream to participate in the high level contest like this. I learned my lesson in 2014. I worked really hard and now I am there. It’s a big honour for me to represent Ukraine.

What are you most looking forward to in Valletta? Is it the first time you will be going to Malta?

I am looking forward to singing on the stage in Malta. Generally it should be the highlight of this year and my life so far. For my career it is very important and also – a good preparation for senior Eurovision. I have never been in Malta. I am sure I will love it. Having a little summer during cold days in Ukraine is just perfect. ☺

Are you a Junior Eurovision fan? What are your favourite entries from the past years?

Of course I am. I am a big fan of Destiny Chukunyere. Her voice is absolutely amazing.

How would you describe your song ‘’Planet craves for love’’ in a few words?

There is a message to spread. With my song I pray for peace in Ukraine and in the whole world. I hope that many people hearing my song will stop for a while and think what good things they have done and could do to make our planet better.

Do you have any special ideas for your performance in Valletta?

We work with my team on new music arrangements for my song. Also – we have already decided about how the stage performance will look like. However I wish to keep it in secret until everything is done. Everybody likes nice surprises. I would say that everything will look completely different comparing to my performance during Ukrainian national selection.

Besides singing, do you have other passions/hobbies?

I love cooking. I would say it’s my hobby. As for passions I love travelling. Carpathian mountains in Ukraine is my favorite spot so far.

What would you like to say to your fans that are going to support you at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2016?

My dearest! I would like to say thank you for watching my interview, thank you for your support and I kindly wish you all the best. Let’s make our planet better together!

Fun facts about Sofia:

What is your favourite…?

• movie: oh well, so many favorites. First movie that comes to my mind that I love is “Alice in wonderland”
• artist/singer: Jamala
• book: The Hundred-Mile-An-Hour Dog by Jeremy Strong, the dog is brilliant at many things but most of all she’s brilliant at getting into trouble! These are very kind and funny books. You might think also childish, however I love reading them! It helps me to relax and have a good laugh before I go to bed☺ Highly recommended, even for adults!
• sport: swimming
• TV show: X-FACTOR
• song: Planet craves for love ☺
• subject in school: literature

Sofia also took the time to record a video for her fans:

We would like to thank Sofia for the interview and wish her the best of luck in Valletta, at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2016, at the end of the month of November!