The road to the center stage has been long for Maria Sur.
In connection with the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, she was forced to flee her homeland and managed to get to Sweden together with her mother, after an initial stop in Poland.
- We thought that the war would soon be over so that we could return home, she tells SVT.
The realization that this would not be the case was shocking and took a toll, she says.
With the contribution "Never give up", she wants to convey the message of persevering and continuing forward, regardless of setbacks.
- The song is a lot about myself, and never giving up has been my motto almost all my life.
Have family left in Ukraine
Maria Sur still has family and friends back in her home country, noticeably touched, she says that she hasn't seen her father in eight months.
- It was a very difficult decision to leave parts of our family, because we are so close to each other.
But he wanted his children to be in a safe place with a secure future.
But amid the difficulties, she experiences great support from everyone close to her, mainly her parents.
Something that has always been present regarding her musical dreams.
The fact that she is now in Melodifestivalen has made her biggest fan proud.
- Dad is so proud and happy for me, she says.
Favorite tipped
The 18-year-old is one of the betting companies' advance favorites to win the entire competition.
And if that were to be the case, she would be happy to shoulder the role of Sweden's entry in the Eurovision song contest in May.
- I identify myself as Ukrainian and I have not been here in Sweden for a long time.
But I have already met so many wonderful people here who have helped me so much and given me great opportunities.
So it would have been an honor for me to represent Sweden in Eurovision.
Hear Maria Sur about leaving life and her father in Ukraine in the clip above.