The day after the group celebrated Victory in OT 2023, a win that drew minimal debate despite facing the toughest odds, Naiara from Aragon stepped forward to the press conference in her signature look. She wore translucent sunglasses that underscored her confident presence and helped mask the late-night wear from the finale party. At a gala on Monday, where she performed Sobreviviré and delivered more than just a performance, she claimed a prize of 100,000 euros (added to 9,000 as a three-time favorite) and was crowned the outright winner. The televoting split was decisive, with about 49% voting for her, while rivals Paul Thin and Ruslana trailed with roughly twenty percent each as they accompanied the winner down the podium.
“Very strong. I have a feeling right now,” the 26-year-old performer said, maintaining a grounded tone that reflected her time at the Academy. “I am happy with who I am and what I represent. I have worked hard for many years and became independent at 17. I haven’t had a free summer since then, but I’m proud of the things I’ve created inside.” Her background includes a solid orchestral training, which sharpened her stage awareness and taught her the value of sacrifice.
“I had a fantastic boss who acted like a father figure. He helped me improve my singing and interpretation. The orchestra felt like a series of mini concerts, and at OT I performed in towns where applause wasn’t instant, yet the audience remained devoted,” she recalled, keeping her feet firmly on the ground.
Naiara became the big winner of OT 2023 by defeating Paul Thin and Ruslana
So what now, after conquering the overtime challenge and clinching victory? Where will her musical path lead next? “When we look at the music scene, not everyone focuses on one thing. I want a repertoire that listeners can connect with in many ways. One moment a ballad, the next a danceable track for the club,” she explained. In short, she aims to blend urban sensibilities with melodic lines. The emphasis remains on her voice, presence, and strength, which she plans to share with audiences as a standout performer who never mailed in the competition.
A tangible power radiates from her stage persona and carried through to the Academy. “I always paid attention to my image, not just because people are watching me, but because I love it. I start my day by washing up, showering, and applying makeup. What I wear makes me feel ready to face anything,” she noted. She also acknowledged the camera’s gaze but refused to let it shape her core identity. “You know they’re recording you. Anyone who says no is lying. At first, it’s awkward, but you learn to push through and just be yourself.”
Chonismo reference?
Regarding any outside chatter or fashion influences, she clarified there’s no reliance on external trends. “Long live confidence, bold style, and living fully without prejudice,” she stated. Her message to the world centers on freedom of expression, individual choice, and the belief that everyone should live authentically without fear of judgment. This stance aligns with the openness celebrated within the show and resonates with fans who value genuine self-expression.
The reveal of a same-sex relationship on the show was presented as a natural facet of her life. She emphasized that being true to oneself is more important than conforming to others’ expectations. Close friendships, including a longtime bond with Uruguayan contestant Lucas, were highlighted as a source of support. She described Lucas as a brother, underscoring the role of trusted friends in navigating public life. She remarked that being straight does not negate deep friendship, and she values those connections as a key part of her journey.
Investing in education
The house and car memes aside, the prize money opens doors beyond fame. She joked about buying a car while also focusing on education. She wants to continue learning, perhaps pick up piano, compose more, and strengthen her creative voice. Her current mindset is sharp and purposeful, driven by a clear sense of direction. “I’m hungry for this,” she said, signaling a determination to evolve as an artist and as a person.
Her family has always been central. During the final gala, her mother and grandmother stood with her, offering a quiet, powerful presence away from the spotlight. They’ve been her anchors, teaching the values of hard work and sacrifice. As she put it, the journey has always been about progress, resilience, and the choice to push forward. “Speed up, stay smart,” she proclaimed, inviting herself and others to keep moving toward the road ahead.