Mariam Shengelia

Mariam Shengelia, born on May 14, 2002, in Mingrelia, Georgia, is a Georgian singer who has been active in the music industry since 2018. She is set to represent Georgia at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 in Basel with the song “Freedom.”

Shengelia’s early life was rooted in Mingrelia, a region in western Georgia. She spent her formative years in Tbilisi before relocating with her family to Zugdidi at the age of ten. Her passion for music emerged during her childhood, leading her to pursue formal education in vocal performance and music theory at the Tbilisi State Conservatoire. Her musical influences span various genres, including pop, soul, and jazz.

In 2018, at the age of 16, Shengelia gained national recognition as a semi-finalist on X Factor Georgia. The following year, she participated in Geostar, Georgia’s national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest 2020, where she finished in sixth place. Although she did not win, she was slated to be a backing vocalist for Tornike Kipiani’s entry “Take Me as I Am” for the 2020 Eurovision Song Contest, which was ultimately canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Shengelia continued to build her career by reaching the semi-finals of The Voice Sakartvelo in 2021. In 2024, she expanded her artistic endeavors by participating in Tsekvaven Varskvlavebi, the Georgian version of Dancing with the Stars, where she finished as the runner-up. 

Beyond her solo career, Shengelia is a member of Mix2ura, a Georgian band known for blending diverse musical styles. 

On March 14, 2025, the Georgian Public Broadcaster announced Shengelia as Georgia’s representative for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025. Her song “Freedom,” composed by Keti Gabisiani with lyrics by Buka Kartozia, is performed in both Georgian and English and explores themes of liberty and national pride. 

Shengelia’s selection has not been without controversy. She faced criticism for her public support of the ruling Georgian Dream party, which has been described as pro-Russian. Her participation in concerts and commercials supporting the party in 2023 and 2024 drew backlash from segments of the Georgian public. In response, Shengelia stated that her involvement aimed to promote a message of peace. 

Mariam Shengelia performed in the 2nd semifinal of the Eurovision Song Contest, on May 15 2025. Unfortunately, she didn’t manage to reach the Grand Final.