Flora answering questions from La Gazette du Var.

Are you a child of the South?
I was born in Gassin, but my parents are Sri Lankan. I have a very special relationship with my two cultures. Var is my home, it's where I grew up and developed my passion for music. I am a true often my music.

How did music come into your life?

Dès l'âge de 8 ans, j'ai commencé à chanter pour échapper aux difficultés que je rencontrais à l'école, où j'ai souffert de racisme. Je ne voulais plus y aller. Alors, ma mère m'a inscrite à des cours de piano pour me libérer. Mon professeur de piano a découvert mon talent pour le chant en m'entendant fredonner. Il m'a encouragée à chanter ma première chanson, scolaires et de m'épanouir artistiquement. Après l'été, je vais m'installer à Paris pour poursuivre mes études à l'IMEP Pro - Paris College of Music, une université de musique réputée. J'ai hâte de commencer cette nouvelle étape, qui me permettra d'approfondir mes connaissances musicales tout en continuant à donner des concerts. Pouvez-vous nous raconter votre aventure à The Voice et The Voice Kids ?
In 2020, I participated in season 7 of The Voice Kids. I was 12 years old. It was a childhood dream come true. I was signed up by my music teacher during a masterclass with Bruno Berber, the casting director. I was on Soprano's team and I reached the Battles. I was very disappointed by my elimination and I was determined to get my revenge. That is why in 2024, I participated in The Voice. During the blind auditions, I performed "Les Moulins de mon Cœur" by Michel Legrand. All the judges turned around. I joined Mika's team and had the honor of reaching the quarter-finals. This experience was extremely rewarding and allowed me to grow both artistically and personally. I was able to receive valuable advice from music professionals. This strengthened my passion and my determination to pursue a musical career.
How did your integration into the "Ça c'est le Sud" tour go, and what were your impressions?
I joined the "Ça c'est le Sud" tour thanks to Valérie Mérali, the tour organizer, who invited me. At first, I didn't realize the scale of this 30-date tour. The first evening in Saint-Tropez was a revelation. I was happy to sing on a professional stage, with a large audience and talented musicians. At 17 years old, it's an incredible opportunity. Joyce Jonathan and the Chœurs du Sud are wonderful. This experience allows me to blossom even more on stage.
How have your environment and the people around you contributed to your journey?
I would like to express my deep gratitude to the Région Sud for giving me this chance, in particular François de Canson, Vice-President of the Région, and Renaud Muselier, President of the Région, for their support. Their help is crucial throughout this tour. I want to thank Valérie Mérali, Joyce Jonathan, of whom I have always been a fan, all the staff, the team of the Comité Régional de Tourisme, and of course the audience. They have all played an essential role for me. It is thanks to their support that I am living this extraordinary experience and growing as an artist. I am also grateful to my parents, who constantly encourage me to pursue my passion and move towards my dreams.
What are your projects after the tour and where do you see yourself in a few years?
My ultimate dream is to play in Zéniths, at the Olympia, and even in the United States. The idea of performing on these iconic stages fills me with emotion and excitement. Every small step brings me closer to this ambitious dream. Imagining sharing my music with such a vast audience motivates me enormously. At the same time, I plan to continue doing small concerts and developing my musical career. In fact, I can share some scoop with you! My first single will be released on September 6th! It is called "Je viens d'ailleurs". It was produced by Norbert Nakach. This is the first time I'm talking about it! This single incorporates Bollywood elements and Sri Lankan percussion that pay tribute to my roots. I am very excited to share this new step in my career with the people who follow me! I hope you will like it!
Photos Yann ETESSE.