The “Our Generation” international singing competition brought together talent from 16 countries in Moscow. This is a large-scale musical event for children aged 9 to 16.
On Saturday, the finale of the third edition saw young singers from Madagascar win with the song “Fianarana foana,” which means “Continue Studying.”
The “Our Generation” competition was first held in the Russian capital in November 2023 under the motto “Music Without Borders,” with support from the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Presidential Foundation for Cultural Initiatives.
The organizers view the competition as a version of the Junior Eurovision Song Contest.
According to the organizers’ press release, “Our Generation” is apolitical and focuses on promoting high cultural values, an educational program, and encouraging the potential of the younger generation.
This year, 16 countries participated in the competition: Russia, China, Brazil, South Africa, Uganda, Kenya, Madagascar, Mongolia, Egypt, Armenia, Belarus, India, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Ethiopia, and, for the first time, the United States. The winner was determined by a combined vote from a professional jury and public voting.
Audience members said that such a competition brings people closer and creates a positive atmosphere.
“This is especially important in our time. I truly wish for peace, friendship, and a form of mutual understanding between people,” said one woman.
“We need countries to unite to strengthen cultural cooperation,” said another woman.
When asked about the similarity to the Junior Eurovision Song Contest, some said that’s exactly what it is, while others believe Russia doesn’t need a Eurovision contest, but needs its own competition.
“I don’t think it’s a response; it’s a grand statement to the world that we can be friends and unite the whole world around us,” said one woman.
“Why should we give a response when we can offer something new and organize it ourselves? We are independent and we don’t need Eurovision; we can organize our own contest,” added another woman.
