Yuval Raphael: From Rising Star to Eurovision Hopeful with a Message of Unity and Resilience
Yuval Raphael, the breakout winner of Israel’s Kohav Haba (Rising Star), is set to represent her country on one of the world’s biggest stages—Eurovision 2025. With her emotionally powerful ballad “A New Day Will Rise”, Raphael is captivating audiences with more than just her voice—she’s carrying a message of hope, healing, and togetherness.
“It Felt Surreal”
Reflecting on the moment she won Kohav Haba, Yuval described the experience as nothing short of surreal. “It felt like my dream was coming true,” she said. “We’re all going through struggles, ups and downs, and to have each other’s backs through that—it’s a beautiful thing.”
The Road to Eurovision
Rehearsals for Eurovision are intense, Raphael admitted, saying, “It’s non-stop, around the clock—every day, every minute.” Yet the challenge only excites her more: “I’m fully committed, giving 100% to this beautiful project.”
For fans just discovering her, Yuval shared a bit about who she is. “I’m very family-oriented. I love my family deeply. I’m a person full of love, into art, meditation, and used to ride horses,” she smiled. “I’m friendly and I try to lead with love.”
Representing Israel in a Tumultuous Time
For Yuval, the honor of representing Israel in this particular year carries deep meaning. “It means the world to me,” she said. “To represent my country on such a massive stage is both an honor and a great responsibility.”
Her song “A New Day Will Rise” has been met with emotional responses worldwide. Online reviewers praised the song’s bilingual structure, its heartfelt message, and Raphael’s soaring vocals—one calling it “a vocal masterpiece,” another saying, “She’s giving me chills.”
A Song with a Message
Yuval’s song speaks directly to resilience and solidarity. “There’s a line in the song: ‘Everyone cries, don’t cry alone.’ That’s what I want to share with the world. We all face hardships, and the most beautiful thing is standing together through them.”
The lyrics have especially resonated given Israel’s recent struggles, with many viewers saying the song delivers a powerful message of hope. “Now it’s time for Israel to rise,” one fan said.
Following in Big Footsteps
Yuval steps onto the Eurovision stage following impressive Israeli performances in recent years—Noa Kirel’s third-place finish in 2023 and Eden Golan’s fifth-place ranking in the popular vote in 2024.
Can she win it all? “I believe in my heart that I can,” she said confidently. “And I really, really hope so.”
A Message to Supporters Worldwide
To her global supporters, Yuval offered gratitude and love. “Thank you so much. I’m working very hard, and I hope to make you proud. I’m sending you all so much love.”
As Eurovision 2025 approaches, Yuval Raphael’s combination of raw emotion, vocal brilliance, and unwavering spirit is positioning her not just as a contestant, but as a voice for unity, healing, and hope in difficult times.
