Bulawayo Creative Showcase: A Celebration of Talent Amidst Challenges
The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) has recently evolved to incorporate not only business but also cultural and entertainment events, adding an exciting layer of vibrancy to the annual gathering. One of the most anticipated events during this time is the Bulawayo Creative Showcase, a dynamic celebration of artistry and innovation, set to take place on April 25 at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe (NGZ). This year’s showcase promises to be a special one, supported by the British Council in Zimbabwe and the US Embassy in Zimbabwe—two influential entities dedicated to nurturing local talent in the Creative and Cultural Industries (CCIs), even amidst the challenges they face.
The Bulawayo Creative Showcase will feature a stellar lineup of performers, each with a unique artistic voice, including returning artist Indigo Saint, Charles Mahlaba, Brintz, Noluntu J, Novuyo Seagirl, Kyla Blac, Kereng, Lemmzy Beats, Asaph Afrika, and MJ Sings. This eclectic mix of musicians and creatives is expected to bring their energy and talent to the stage, offering audiences an unforgettable experience.
A Platform for Talent and Growth
Each of these performers has expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to perform at such an important event, especially in a time when the arts industry faces ongoing uncertainty. Asaph Afrika, a beneficiary of the Next Level Global hip hop program, highlighted the importance of initiatives like the Bulawayo Creative Showcase for young artists. “I’m super grateful for the opportunity because our talents and arts are our culture. These programmes provide us with a platform to learn how other young people do things while showcasing our own unique styles. The exchange of value is pretty amazing,” he said, underlining how such events open doors for Zimbabwe’s brightest talents.
Novuyo Seagirl, the pint-sized singer who continues to rise in prominence, shared her excitement about performing at the showcase: “I’m super excited to share the stage with some of Bulawayo’s greats. I appreciate the support from the British Council and US Embassy. More events like this are needed, where Bulawayo creatives can headline their own shows. It’s inspiring to see these organisations bridging the gap and proving our potential – it truly fulfils my heart.”
Reflecting on the Importance of Platforms for Creative Expression
For rapper Brintz, the opportunity to perform on the same stage as his peers is something he cherishes. “I get to translate the feelings I had when creating the songs to a live audience and see them connect to the music in real time, that feeling never gets old,” he said, emphasizing the deep connection between the artist and their audience.
Charles Mahlaba echoed this sentiment, saying, “I feel excited to be part of the event and grateful that we still have platforms to showcase our talents despite the challenges in the arts industry.” Lyricist MJ Sings also expressed his enthusiasm, calling it an honor to perform for the people who continue to support his musical journey. “It’s always an honour to grace the stage at home for the people that continue to push me. I’m excited about this event, as it showcases some of my favourite creatives from the city,” he added.
Lemmzy Beats, a producer and DJ, reflected on the significance of performing at a time when the arts sector is struggling due to external challenges such as the freeze on foreign aid during the Trump administration. “It reminded all of us how fragile support systems can be. As a DJ/producer, music is my way of connecting and pushing messages out there. This set isn’t just about the vibes – it’s about standing in solidarity and using sound to speak when words aren’t enough,” he said.
The British Council and US Embassy’s Role in Supporting the Arts
The British Council and US Embassy have long been champions of Zimbabwean creativity and cultural initiatives. Their ongoing support for local artists includes programs like Creative Economy Week Zimbabwe, the SoCreative Africa learning programme, the Artist Creative Entrepreneurship project, the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP), and the Next Level Hip Hop Academy. These initiatives have provided local artists with the necessary tools, networks, and platforms to develop their craft and thrive in a competitive environment.
As the Bulawayo Creative Showcase draws near, it’s not just an event—it’s a testament to the resilience and creativity of Zimbabwe’s artistic community. It demonstrates the power of collaboration, and how the arts, despite external challenges, continue to thrive when organizations, creatives, and supporters come together to foster growth and opportunity.
The Bulawayo Creative Showcase is more than just a celebration of local talent; it is a beacon of hope for the future of Zimbabwe’s creative industries, highlighting the importance of preserving culture, promoting creativity, and bridging the gap between local and international creative communities. For those in Bulawayo and beyond, it’s an event not to be missed.
