Portugal at Junior Eurovision 2024: Victoria Nicole with “Esperança”

Scroll down for the “Esperança” lyrics

Portugal in Junior Eurovision 2024: Victoria Nicole with “Esperança”

Victoria Nicole, 13, is originally from Venezuela but now lives in Portugal with her parents. Her talent for music and television is well-recognised, especially after winning The Voice Kids Portugal. Throughout the show, she delivered remarkable performances, with a standout being her cover of “Voilà” by Barbara Pravi, the French entry at Eurovision 2021.

Victoria began training her voice at the age of five, attending a music academy with the clear dream of becoming a singer. She has performed extensively in both Venezuela and Portugal and has ventured into the theatrical world, including a role in the musical Peter Pan. In addition to her vocal achievements, she studied piano for five years and ukulele for two, and is now passionate about songwriting. Her Junior Eurovision entry, “Esperança,” marks her debut single, signaling the start of an exciting journey in her music career.

Victoria has an adorable dog named Copita, who often accompanies her while she records covers at home. Copita has become a little part of Victoria’s musical journey, providing comfort and companionship during her creative moments. Victoria loves recording and sharing covers, often including songs by Venezuelan artists to honour her roots. Alongside music, she enjoys drawing and cooking, which are two of her favourite hobbies. When it comes to Eurovision and its legendary acts, Victoria is a huge fan of ABBA, the iconic band that won Eurovision for Sweden in 1974.

What do the “Esperança” lyrics mean?

The English title of Victoria’s song is “Hope,” and this theme lies at the heart of the song. The lyrics are a blend of Portuguese and Spanish, paying tribute to both Victoria’s Venezuelan roots and the host country of this year’s Junior Eurovision. The song’s message emphasises the importance of hope in fuelling dreams and the belief in brighter days.

Amid the challenges of daily life, the song serves as a reminder to take pride in personal progress and to appreciate each day as a gift: “Every day is an achievement/ That at the end of the day/ Fills my heart.” The chorus underscores Victoria’s unwavering belief in her dreams, and her determination to fight each day to make them a reality, driven by her strong hope.

The song also imparts valuable lessons, such as ignoring those who try to bring you down and persevering when all doors seem closed: “Several doors closed when I tried to enter/ Almost no one trusted me but I did it.” As Victoria notes in the lyrics, she isn’t just singing a song — she’s sharing the story of her life. 

“Esperança” lyrics – Victoria Nicole (Portugal JESC 2024)

Lyrics and music: Bárbara Tinoco, Nininho Vaz Maia, Victoria Nicole

What do you think of “Esperança” by Victoria Nicole. Is this one of your favourites in this year’s contest? Let us know in the comments below.