At the beginning of the month of October, Shalisa won Junior Songfestival, the Dutch national final for Junior Eurovision. She will represent the Netherlands, this year in Sofia, in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2015 with her song ”A million lights”. The 15 year old girl took the time to talk to ESCBubble about her forthcoming participation in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest.

What was your first reaction when you realized that you had won the Junior Songfestival and that you would represent your country in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest?

At first I could not believe it. The other competitors told me I won and that I had to run to the stage. The professional jury, the junior jury and the dutch viewers all gave me 12 points. When I realized I that I had won, I was happy and speechless and had to cry!

I’m honored and proud to represent the Netherlands in Sofia.

How would you describe your song ‘’A million lights’’ in a few words? Is there a message behind the song?

My song is about two people who are in love but cannot reach each other because they live thousands of miles away. They both see ”the million lights up in the sky”. Everybody sees the same stars, that is what connects them and makes them feel closer to each other.

Do you have any special ideas for your performance in Sofia (ex: choreography, dressŠ)?

I’ll bring a piano and dancers to the stage.

At what age did you start singing? 

I started singing when I was 8 years old. I participated in a talent show for kids and was selected for the national finals on TV. On my 12th birthday I did Blind Auditions at The Voice Kids season 1. A famous dutch artist, Marco Borsato was my coach.

Besides singing, do you have other passions/hobbies?

I love to play the piano. When I have time, I play tennis and take theater lessons.

Are you a Eurovision fan? What are your favorite Eurovision songs?

Yes, I love Eurovision. My favorite songs are: ”Calm after the Storm” by the Common Linnets and ”Heroes” by Måns Zelmerlöw.

What would you like to say to your fans that are going to support you at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2015?

I am very happy that they support me and that some will even come to Sofia. They sure will have good time in the city and I’m sure I will. Let’s shine together for The Netherlands and all the Junior Eurovision fans!

Fun facts about Shalisa:

What is your favorite …? 

• Movie: Hunger Games   
• Artist(s): Joss Stone
• Song(s): Right to be wrong (Joss Stone) and Love on top (Beyonce)
• Book: the Selection
• Sport: Tennis
• TV show: The Voice of Holland 
• Subject at school: English

Shalisa also sent a message to ESCBubble readers:

We would like to thank Shalisa for this interview and we would also like to wish her the best of luck in Sofia, at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2015!