Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts, Entertainment Hub
THE road to Season 13 finals of the prestigious StarBrite Talent Search has gathered momentum following the successful staging of the semi-finals in Harare recently.
StarBrite Talent Search executive director and producer Barney Mpariwa said the competition had made remarkable progress, with sponsors, partners, service providers, supporters, volunteers, and individuals fully backing this year’s edition.
“The event was a spectacular celebration of talent, perseverance and opportunity, showcasing some of Zimbabwe’s most promising performers while reaffirming StarBrite’s commitment to discovering and nurturing talent from all walks of life,” said Mpariwa.
Adding colour and variety to this year’s semi-finals, the organisers also honoured the top three winners from Season 12.
Among them was reigning champion Tinashe Kamunakwenje, 28, an inmate at Harare Central Prison whose success proved that talent knows no boundaries.
Natasha Mubvumbi, 26, from Harare, finished as the first runner-up, while Maurice Petersen, 51, from Bulawayo, was voted second runner-up. “These outstanding young talents received an array of life-changing prizes made possible through the generosity of StarBrite’s valued partners and sponsors.
Among the prizes awarded were a biltong maker sponsored by Arctic Clima, guitars and a mbira from Premier Audio, and a two-roomed prefab house for the overall winner sponsored by Timewex Prefab. There were also 10 000 bricks courtesy of Willdale Limited; clothing from Stylish Gentleman, Petreace Designs, and Ashava Designs; hampers from Proton and Obbridge; and medals from All National Excellence and Music Crossroads, as well as many other prizes from various partners who continue to believe in the StarBrite vision.
A particularly inspiring moment was the crowning of Season 12 winner, Tinashe Kamunakwenje, an inmate at Harare Central Prison who first auditioned through StarBrite’s outreach programme at Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison,” said Mpariwa.
He also spoke glowingly about Kamunakwenje, who is immensely talented.
“His remarkable journey is a powerful reminder that talent knows no boundaries and that opportunity can transform lives regardless of one’s circumstances. StarBrite remains proud to be a platform that embraces diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity without prejudice.
The Season 13 semi-finals themselves delivered an unforgettable experience.
The major highlights of the night included a breathtaking group performance of “Fire Emoji — The StarBrite Version,” which immediately electrified the audience and set the tone for a memorable showcase.
Afro-fusion star Brian Kadengu, who won the 2012 edition, also performed at the event.
This year’s semifinals were uniquely themed around the iconic song “Shaina.” Contestants were paired into groups of two and challenged to adopt, recreate, and perform the song while retaining at least 60 percent of the original composition. The challenge demanded creativity, teamwork, and artistic interpretation.
Jazz sensation Duduzile Manhenga, alongside Alexio Kawara, were among the panel adjudicators.
Kawara was also blown away by the amount of talent he saw at the semifinals.
It was the sponsorship package that left Mpariwa in awe, as corporations have continued to show their faith in StarBrite with each passing season.
“While it may not be possible to mention every contributor individually, StarBrite acknowledges and deeply appreciates every sponsor, partner, volunteer, service provider, media partner, parent, supporter, and friend of the show who played a role in the success of the Season 13 semi-finals.
