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A graduate of FJC’s Or Avner Jewish school in Baku will make history as Azerbaijan’s representative at the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest, highlighting the strong ties between the country’s Jewish and Muslim communities.

Asaf (Sefael) Mishiyev, 32, who attended the Or Avner Jewish school in Baku will perform with his band Mamagama at the prestigious competition in Switzerland this May. The selection marks a significant milestone for Azerbaijan’s Jewish community.

“Asaf has always been an exemplary student who took his studies seriously while pursuing his artistic passion,” the school administration stated. “He is a proud and dedicated Jew, connected to Jewish tradition and heritage and a source of pride for us all. The entire Jewish community of Baku is incredibly proud to see him on this international stage, and we wish him success in representing both Azerbaijan and the Jewish people with honor.”

Speaking to YNET from Baku, Mishiyev expressed pride in his dual identity. “I can speak Hebrew. I studied at a Jewish school here — there are two Jewish schools in Baku. Our relations with Israel are very strong. I feel like I’m not only representing Azerbaijan, my country, which I’m proud to represent but also the Jewish people because my parents are Jewish.”

Mishiyev’s musical journey includes winning a Jewish music competition in the Caucasus region in 2013 and reaching the knockout stage of Russia’s “The Voice” in 2020.

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