JESC 2025: Interview with Nela Mancheska: “This is my song. It really describes me.”

With Tbilisi getting closer, North Macedonia’s Nela Mancheska is stepping into her Junior Eurovision debut with a mixture of excitement, nerves and grounded sincerity. During our conversation, the 13-year-old artist was open about how the experience is shifting now that the competition is approaching.

I'm very excited… I really feel the pressure now.

'Miracle', the song she will bring to Tbilisi, was created by Lazar Cvetkoski and Magdalea Cvetkoska. According to Nela, the process evolved over several meetings. As she explained, the first material they heard together “wasn't" for her, and only later did the right song appear. When she heard what would become 'Miracle', she recognised herself in it:

This is my song. It really describes me.

For Nela, whose lifelong dream has been to perform at Junior Eurovision, this connection seems especially significant. She didn’t hesitate to point out that she had wanted this opportunity “from a very young age,” and that finally being selected is something she still processes with gratitude. 

Despite the intensity of rehearsals — almost daily at this stage — her school has helped her maintain a sense of structure. Nela described them as “really supporting” and explained how they adapt by giving her assignments she can complete on her own time.

Outside the music bubble, her personality shows through in small, quiet moments:

• The last photo on her phone is of her cat “playing with his toys.”

• Her favourite rehearsal snack is a chocolate-melt cheesecake from the caffe.

• She keeps “positive notes” on her phone and reads them before going on stage — a small ritual that keeps her grounded.

Unsurprisingly, Nela stays discreet when asked about her staging. She confirms that the team is “working on it” but insists that viewers “will have to wait and see.”

It’s the only hint she allows and enough to spark curiosity about how the song will unfold visually.

Nela’s musical preferences reflect the blend of theatricality and softness present in Miracle. She cites Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande as her daily inspirations, two vocalists known for emotional precision and expressive technique.

She enjoys singing pop and ballads, while listening mostly to pop in her free time. One of her favourite pre-interview listens? 'No Good Deed' from Wicked.

Among this year’s Junior Eurovision entries, she highlights Spain’s song as the one that stands out to her.

Throughout a light-hearted “first, last and favourite” game, Nela revealed more of her personality:

– The first song she remembers singing on stage: 'Lovely' by Billie Eilish.

– The last song she listened to before the interview: 'No Good Deed' from Wicked.

– The favourite part of her own JESC song: “The last part.”

– The first thing she wants to do upon arriving in Georgia: “Make new friendships with the kids there.”

– The last item she’ll pack: “Probably like a perfume or something.”

Small answers, but all authentic — and delivered with the soft humour and warmth she carries naturally.

Watch the full interview on our Youtube channel: