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Lesti Kejora Remembers the Journey from Contestant to Judge of D'Academy

Lesti Kejora Remembers the Journey from Contestant to Judge of D'Academy

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Lesti Kejora Remembers the Journey from Contestant to Judge of D'Academy

The journey of Lesti Kejora on the D'Academy stage has become one of the greatest success stories in the history of the dangdut talent search event. Now, 12 years after first participating in the competition as a contestant, Rizky Billar's wife returns to D'Academy 8 in a different role as a judge. She admitted that the moment brought back many memories.

Lesti shared this during the D'Academy 8 press conference at SCTV Tower, Jakarta, on Monday (29/6/2026). The Kejora singer stated that she never expected to be in a position that she could only dream of when she was still a contestant in D'Academy 1.

Lesti mentioned that the presentation shown by Indosiar about the journey of D'Academy made her feel as if she was back in the early days of the competition. She even recalled the press conference location, which was very different compared to when she first introduced herself to the public.

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"So, 12 years ago, the preskon was below. So when it was presented earlier, oh my God, I was the one who participated. Even earlier, my sister said, you weren't fair-skinned back then, yes, that's true. That's what Dangdut Academy can do to improve lives. I'm glad I joined DA1," said Lesti.

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The woman born in Cianjur believes that D'Academy has opened doors for many talented dangdut singers from various regions to develop their careers in the entertainment industry. According to her, the opportunities received by the finalists of D'Academy 8 are a great chance that does not come to everyone.

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Having once experienced the struggle as a participant, Lesti understands the pressure that the finalists will face during the competition. She also reminded all participants not to lose focus from the beginning of their journey in D'Academy 8.

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"Just prepare your mentality. Remember what your goal is here, focus and be disciplined. Because opportunities do not come twice. You are the chosen ones who can be at DA8. We are waiting for you to become the next star and welcome," he said.

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In the midst of the serious message, Lesti also lightened the atmosphere with a remark that made the entire audience laugh. She mentioned a habit that has been the focus of her fans every time D'Academy is held again.

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"And one more thing, DA8 I'm not pregnant, okay? Because every DA I get pregnant," Lesti said with a smile, greeted by laughter from the guests.

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D'Academy 8 officially enters the Final Audition stage starting Monday (29/6/2026). From more than 9,500 participants who auditioned online and offline in eight cities, only 53 finalists have succeeded in continuing their journey to the main stage. The participants will be judged by Soimah, Lesti Kejora, Dewi Perssik, Wika Salim, and Nassar.

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Now, Lesti no longer stands as a participant waiting for the results. As one of the judges, she hopes that the experience that once changed her life can also be felt by the finalists of D'Academy 8. According to her, anyone who can maintain their mental strength, discipline, and consistency during the competition has a great chance of becoming the next generation of dangdut stars.