Val is in full performance mode. The last Malagasy contestant still in the running, Val is intensifying his preparation ahead of the grand finale of The Voice Africa, the African and Francophone adaptation of the famous musical talent show The Voice, scheduled for August 14 in Côte d'Ivoire. Initially launched in 2016, this program brings together young artists from over 16 French-speaking African countries to reveal the continent's finest musical talents.
Qualification is secured, but the work is only intensifying for Val. Valimbavaka Herimanjaka Razafimahefa, known by his stage name Val, is actively pursuing his preparation for the grand finale of The Voice Africa, where he will represent Madagascar against three other contestants from Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Benin.
A member of Meiway's team, the Malagasy artist earned his ticket to the finale following the K.O. rounds with a remarkable performance of "Lose Control" by Teddy Swims. His performance, powered by the strength of his voice and stage presence, allowed him to continue the journey. The two other Malagasy contestants, Tojo and Faith, have exited the competition. "I am very happy to have reached the final stage," Val confides, understanding the importance of this last step.
Just days before the finale, Val is already immersed in a particularly demanding schedule. "The preparation is intense, because the program prepared by the organizers is very full," he explains. Between rehearsals and stage preparation, the contestant now intends to focus on this ultimate performance with the goal of giving his best: "I will always try to give the best of myself."
Voting Open
The semi-final also allowed him to experience something particularly meaningful alongside the other talents on Meiway's team. "It was a beautiful experience, because all the contestants who were with me on Meiway's team were very talented," he emphasizes.
For this finale, the choice no longer rests solely on performances. The public now plays a decisive role in the competition's outcome. Voting is open and Val's supporters can vote via can.al/3h11, with the possibility to vote each day. "The choice of viewers is now the most important," the artist reminds us, counting on the support of Malagasy people to cross this final hurdle.
Val's participation in The Voice is part of a musical journey that began early. Val took his first steps in singing competitions at church in 2014, at age ten. He then participated in Pazzapa Boys and Girls in 2017, followed by the Singing Contest at Pazzapa School in 2021 and the Inter-University competition in 2022. He participated in The Voice Africa for the first time in 2023, before continuing his journey as a music producer and vocal coach at a school.
In parallel, he has directed the choir Les Louanges Sainte-Anne d'Anjomakely since 2018 and has also performed with a choir outside the religious framework.