Queen Nicole to Host Nama23 Red Carpet as Zimbabwe’s Arts Elite Gather for a Star-Studded Night

Nicole Jamu, popularly known as Queen Nicole, has been officially announced as the red carpet host for the prestigious National Arts Merit Awards (Nama23), set to take place at the Hippodrome Conference Centre in Braeside, Harare, on March 1. This announcement has generated immense excitement, as the celebrated radio personality and news anchor is known for her unmatched charisma, impeccable fashion sense, and engaging presence.
The Nama23 event, a highlight of Zimbabwe’s arts and entertainment calendar, will showcase a star-studded line-up of musical performances from some of the country’s most celebrated artists, including Hwinza, Shashl, Jah Prayzah, Nissan TS, Joyful Praise, Sylent Nqo, Bagga, Briyand, Denilson, Probeatz, Atenda Chinx, and Misheck Mahendere. With the theme #Afrofuturism, the event aims to celebrate excellence while embracing a futuristic vision for Zimbabwean arts.
Queen Nicole’s presence on the red carpet promises to add a layer of glamour and excitement. Known for her quick wit and larger-than-life personality, she is expected to bring an electrifying energy that will keep guests entertained and engaged as they arrive in their finest attire. Her ability to blend humor, charm, and sophistication makes her the perfect choice to set the tone for the evening.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this year’s red-carpet event is its potential to elevate photography as an art form worthy of recognition at future Nama ceremonies. As photographers capture the elegance, creativity, and fashion statements of the night, this could pave the way for photography to be formally acknowledged as a significant artistic discipline.
The Nama23 event will also celebrate the impact of Zimbabwe’s National Music Strategy and National Film Strategy, as reflected in the strong lineup of nominees across various categories. In the Outstanding Female Musician category, Shashl, Janet Manyowa, and Tamy Moyo will compete for the top honor. Meanwhile, Freeman HKD, Master H, and Saintfloew will battle it out in the Outstanding Male Musician category.
The Outstanding Breakthrough Musician category, previously known as Outstanding Up-and-coming Musician, features rising stars Nisha Ts, Young Gemini, and Chillmaster, while the Outstanding Music Group category includes Joyful Praise, Shower Power, and The Unveiled.
Music lovers can also look forward to an intense contest in the Outstanding Song Merit category, which features hits like Madiro by Kae Chaps, Kana Ndanyura by Killer T, Gore Rino by Tembalami Tagwirei ft. The Unveiled, Denga by Hwinza, and Gore Remix by 216 Whisky ft. various artists. The Outstanding Album category features Me vs Me by Freeman, NOP Makoni by Voltz JT, and Trap Yevafundisi by Saintfloew.
With a mix of top-tier performances, exciting nominations, and Queen Nicole’s vibrant presence on the red carpet, Nama23 promises to be an unforgettable night that honors the best of Zimbabwean arts and entertainment.