A young teacher from Luxembourg's European School faces a nail-biting wait ahead of next week's final for the international Rose of Tralee competition.

Nicola McEvoy, 25, shot to the finals of the cultural competition after winning both the national heat in March this year and then the semi finals in June.

On August 20 and 21, she will be one of 32 candidates representing their respective countries around the world vying for the crown of the 2012 Rose of Tralee.

It is not yet known when Nicola will give her final speech but both competition days will be screened on Irish television, to be broadcast live in the Black Stuff pub in Pulvermühle on August 20 and 21.

Nicola will have little time to give in to nerves in the interim. She and the other 31 finalists have a packed agenda, attending community events as well as a Jedward concert.

The Rose of Tralee is a celebration of Irish culture, uniting Irish nationals in the diaspora and people with Irish heritage for a stylish and convivial event. Luxembourg has entered candidates for the last 12 years. Nicola is an Irish national who has been living and working in Luxembourg since 2011.

The final winner will be announced on Tuesday, August 21, at 10.30pm.

Find out more about the Rose of Tralee competition

Follow the Rose of Tralee on Facebook