Andrew
Nokuthula Dube
CLAD in the unmistakable red and white robes, he has a non-negotiable mandate to remain jovial and never disappoints his constituency.
The young ones love playing on his lap, receiving goodies such as lollipops and toys while admiring his jolly-good temperament.
For many children, Christmas cannot be complete without an encounter with Santa Claus, the character that has come to be affectionately known as Father Christmas.
This age-old tradition can be tracked back hundreds of years to a monk named St Nicholas believed to have been born sometime around 280 A.D in modern-day Turkey.
St Nicholas became admired for his remarkable benevolence as legend says that he gave away all of his inherited wealth and travelled widely to help the poor and the sick.
And so, this legend became a symbol for Christmas and Santa Claus has continued to be a darling to the young ones.
On Friday, The Sunday Mail took some time to spend with Harare’s own Santa Claus, 40-year-old Braveman “Bravo” Makhaza who operates at Joina City Shopping Mall.
In partnership with some shops at the mall, Makhaza provided some gifts to the children, who enjoyed every moment.
It was easy to see why he fits the role of Santa Claus, as his character is bubbly.
‘’l am the CEO of Funny World Entertainment, which focuses on children’s entertainment.
“ I have been playing the role of Santa Claus for the past five years, operating here at Joina City. The past two years have been difficult because of Covid-19 protocols, but this is something that I cannot stop doing because the young ones expect to see Santa during Christmas time, whatever the circumstances.”
Asked what inspired him to be Santa Claus, Makhaza said:
“When I was a child, I was a big fan of Santa. So as I was growing up, it was something I always thought of doing because I love the entertainment industry. The joy I see on young people’s faces, when I give them gifts, is just priceless.
“Christmas is about sharing and merry making. So I made the decision to play Santa Claus because I love Christmas and I want to play my part in bringing joy to young people.”
The stereotypical image of Santa Claus has been that of a burly white man, with an extensive white beard.
So how does Makhaza convince his legion of admirers that Santa Claus can also be black?
Makhaza said he sees a black Santa as a celebration of diversity.
“When I started playing this role, there were people who would mock me by saying Santa cannot be black.
“Of course, nowadays, things are changing and in many facets of life, racial prejudices are being buried. People are warming up to the idea that Santa Claus can also be black.
“Christmas is not about the colour of one’s skin, but the joy of celebrating life. For me, being a Black Santa is a celebration of diversity.”
Makhaza revealed that outside of his life as Santa Claus, he has interests in the energy industry, where he deals in solar energy and Bio Gas.
He is also a family man, as he is married with four children; Chiedza (13), Chikomborero (9), Chidoshashe (7) and Anenyasha (1).
He told The Sunday Mail that he has mastered the art of playing Santa Claus because of the natural love that he has for children.
“It takes someone who has pure love for kids, who has passion to give and smile. You don’t need to be short-tempered and get easily offended. You need to be loving and patient.
“Father Christmas is always smiling. The same love that I give to my children is the same love that I try to share with children who see me as Santa Claus.”
As he went about his duties at Joina City, the children smiled and hugged Santa, while shouting his name.
One child was heard saying: “Santa, please show me the magic that you can perform?”, underscoring the impact that Father Christmas has on the young ones.
Born in Gweru, the former Prince Edward High School student said he is a jack of many trades.
He is a micro-tech engineer trained to operate biogas digesters and is currently assembling a vehicle that runs on biogas.
He is also an entrepreneur with interests in the food industry in Gweru, while he also works as a Master of Ceremonies at weddings and other events.
He also featured in the pioneering local soap opera “Studio 263” and has worked on a number of short films.
Online Reporter