Luckson “ManLuckerz” Chikutu Nominated for 24th National Arts Merit Awards Diaspora Honour

Sweden based storyteller, musician and cultural ambassador Luckson “ManLuckerz” Chikutu has earned a nomination at the 24th National Arts Merit Awards. The prestigious ceremony will take place at the Harare International Conference Centre on February 28 under the theme Fearless Creativity. The awards are presented by the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe. ManLuckerz is competing in the Outstanding Artist in the Diaspora category. His nomination places him among Zimbabwean creatives who continue to shape the country’s cultural identity beyond its borders.

In the same category, he faces strong competition from Bhekinkosi Mabhena, widely known as DJ Nitefreak and currently working in France and Spain, as well as South Africa based filmmaker Chrispen Nyathi. The recognition highlights the global footprint of Zimbabwean talent. For ManLuckerz, the nomination itself represents a milestone after 26 years of living and working in Sweden. Based in Uppsala, he has built a career rooted in storytelling, traditional dance and music. He views the acknowledgement from back home as a powerful affirmation of his lifelong mission to represent Zimbabwe with integrity.

ManLuckerz left Gutu more than two decades ago and has since positioned himself as a cultural bridge between Zimbabwe and Scandinavia. He describes Sweden as his second home, citing the warm reception he has received since settling there. Over the years, he has worked as a writer, storyteller, dance instructor and recording artist. His focus has remained clear. He wants international audiences to understand Zimbabwe’s way of life through authentic cultural expression. That clarity has helped him build a loyal following across Europe.

Authenticity sits at the core of his craft. He openly credits Zimbabwean music legends such as Thomas Mapfumo and Oliver Mtukudzi for inspiring his commitment to originality. He also acknowledges the influence of Stella Chiweshe, whose traditional sound earned global respect. ManLuckerz believes these pioneers reached international audiences because they remained true to their roots. He applies the same principle in his own work. He insists that originality remains the strongest strategy for long term success in the creative industry.

His international profile continues to grow. He has performed at major Swedish cultural events including the Parksnäckan Festival, Fisksätra Festival, Galen Festival, Gränby Festival and Kulturnatten Festival. In 2018, he received an African Recognition Award for his contribution to cultural exchange. He has also strengthened his professional foundation by studying Music Business at the SAE Institute from 2011 to 2014. This formal training sharpened his understanding of branding, distribution and global audience engagement.

ManLuckerz is also an accomplished author. In 2017, he published FlashBack Identitet in Swedish. Two years later, he released the English version titled FlashBack Identity. The book documents Zimbabwe’s cultural values and heritage for international readers. It is available through Swedish publishers and online platforms. His literary work reinforces his mission to preserve and promote Zimbabwean identity abroad.

Music remains central to his journey. Since 2001, he has released seven albums that reflect his roots and personal growth. These projects include Macharangwanda Remain, Pandiri Where I Am, Jesina Madhinga, Gutu My Roots, Amai naBaba Molly, Ndundu Madhaiza and Rongeka Be Organised. Each album blends traditional Zimbabwean rhythms with contemporary influences. This fusion allows him to reach younger audiences while maintaining cultural depth.

His career gained early momentum after performing at the Harare International Festival of the Arts in 1998. That platform opened international doors and laid the groundwork for his move abroad. In 2012, he invited the late musician Andy Brown to participate in the ZIMFEBI music exchange programme, further strengthening cross cultural collaboration. With the support of his wife Stina and Zimbabwean traditional groups, he continues to expand his influence.

As he prepares for the National Arts Merit Awards ceremony, ManLuckerz remains focused on service rather than trophies. He sees winning as a bonus. The nomination already validates decades of discipline, perseverance and cultural advocacy. Through music, books and live performances, he continues to carry Zimbabwe’s story into new spaces.