The new documentary from VOA, “Jamala: Songs of Freedom,” follows the journey of Ukrainian singer-songwriter Jamala during the early stages of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. The film highlights her activism in raising both money and awareness for her homeland. Jamala gained widespread recognition in 2016 when she won the Eurovision contest with her song “1944.” The song tells the story of her great-grandmother’s family, who were deported to Central Asia, along with other Crimean Tatars, in 1944. Jamala has performed at prestigious venues such as the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., the National Opera House in Kyiv, Ukraine, and the 2023 Eurovision contest in Liverpool, England. Her latest album, QIRIM, pays tribute to her Crimean Tatar heritage.

Source: voanews.com