Kechi Okwuchi, who survived the Sosoliso plane crash of December 10, 2005, has emerged finalist in the 2017 edition of America’s Got Talent (AGT) show.
Her qualification was announced via AGT’s official Instagram handle on Wednesday.
“Your #DunkinSave votes turned @kechi_agt into a finalist,” reads the message from show organisers.
The Dunkin Save votes give viewers the opportunity to send the contestant of their choice into the last stage of the talent competition.
Kechi flawlessly sang Frances’ ‘Don’t Worry About Me’ during the show on Tuesday night.
She began with a stunning a capella segment, showcasing her gorgeous vocal range before a pianist joined her.
The audience clapped and cheered throughout her performance.
Judges Howie Mandel, Simon Cowell, Heidi Klum and Mel B were thoroughly impressed.
Mel could be seen wiping tears of emotions as Kechi kept singing.
All four judges saluted the singer with a standing ovation, with Howie delivering heartfelt comments afterward.
“I can’t do what I want to do, and all I want to do is hug you and I want to hold you,” he said. “I don’t have words.”
Mel, Heidi and Simon all praised the singer, pointing out that she took to the stage with impressive confidence and talent.
An emotional Okwuchi, whose mother was in the audience while she performed, uploaded a video on Instagram on Wednesday to thank her fans and solicit for votes.
Other AGT 2017 finalists are Evie Clair, Diavolo, Sara and Hero, Light Balance, Preacher Lawson, Chase Goehring, Mandy Harvey, Angelica Hale, and Darci Lynne Farmer.
Kechi, 27, was 16 years old when the Sosoliso plane bringing her and 60 other students of Loyola Jesuit College, Abuja to Port Harcourt crash-landed at the Port Harcourt International Airport.
She was one of the two survivors of the crash that killed 107 people.
