Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, [email protected]
Songstress Acquillah K is spearheading an initiative aimed at uniting and amplifying female voices in Bulawayo’s arts scene through an all-women showcase set for February 28 at a local auditorium.
Dubbed Queen Circles, the event will bring together a diverse line-up of female creatives, including Yolly K, Poet Lethu, Lee McHoney, Bhekiwe, Mandie Mae, and Luchi Shiki, who are expected to take to the stage in a celebration of women’s talent across music, poetry and performance art.
Acquillah K said the platform was created to promote and empower women in the creative sector, while giving them visibility in an industry that often presents more hurdles for female artistes.
“Queen Circles is an initiative that aims to promote local talent, specifically women in the arts, from singers, rappers, dancers and poets. I founded the movement and my hope is for it to grow into an annual event,” she said.
The idea was inspired by her own experiences navigating the music industry.
“Ever since I ventured into music, it hasn’t been easy. As a woman, you have to push extra hard to be seen. So, I’m creating this space for us to be visible, hence the all-female line-up on stage,” she said.
Beyond entertainment, Acquillah K said the showcase is meant to foster solidarity and encourage women to support one another.
“This is a way of celebrating our craft across different fields in the arts industry. On a personal level, it also marks growth for me because there was a time I almost gave up on my dreams. Through Queen Circles, we empower each other to keep moving forward,” she said.
“I believe these women deserve to be seen and embraced in the city and Zimbabwe at large,” she said.
She added that the response from fellow creatives has been overwhelmingly positive, with many eager to be part of the movement.
Looking ahead, Acquillah K revealed plans to release more music this year, perform at more shows and take part in developmental projects targeting children, women and youths. —@mthabisi_mthire
