Edwin Moyo
GWERU- Musasa Arts and Culture Centre has embarked on a youth talent identification auditions which are expected to uplift and showcase the richness in the Midlands Arts sector.
Musasa Arts and Culture centre chairperson and visual artist, Keith Zenda said they saw it important for young talent to be nurtured through the creation of platforms which captures raw talent at grassroots level.
The auditions project is being from a grant from the Culture Fund, Creative ‘ACTIONS’ 2 and the European Union.
Zenda told The Midweek that this is the first time that the Midlands Province has hosted such auditions.
“I am proud of the ongoing initiative as we are targeting youthful raw talent in the Midlands Province. many artistes would have targeted Harare, but I have decided to bring it closer to home.
“From Gweru we are going to Lower Gweru which is also my home area where auditions are set to be done. We want to give a chance to the rural folk who have no access to social media
“Of late I have been embarking on door to door visits, Growth Point visits and at schools, inviting youths to the auditions. My passion is to fulfill the dream I have of uplifting youths in arts,” he added.
“From Lower Gweru,the auditions will spread to Chiwundura and will also be done in 8 cities namely ,Zvishavane, Masvingo, Bulawayo, Mutare, Gokwe to mention a few.
“Recently, I was in South Korea for an exhibition, the event was an eye opener as it gave me exposure to showcase my talent there and also a stepping stone as I learnt how they conduct arts in Asia. In the coming months am expected to go to America and refine my artistic skills.
One of the youths who attended the event and auditioned in drama, Enifa Mbewe thanked the culture centre for opening the doors for young people.
“It was a first time for me. I was used to watching it on TV and social media not knowing it can also be done here in the Midlands, I’m so excited. For me, even if I don’t win I’m happy, I learnt a lot and I will try again”.
Another participant, Phineas Chiseko, a dancer said arts also help in the creation of employment for the youths.
“Gweru is dormant but this event is a ray of hope to the youths. Though we might not all be selected but it has given us exposure for our talents such that when we go out there we are easily recognized.
“Going forward I see the creation of jobs in arts sectors. Zimbabwe is rich in arts and culture,” he added.
Midlands has been experiencing a serious brain drain in the arts sector and this has resulted in the youths migrating to Harare for opportunities in Harare or outside the country.
