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So the day finally came and the Bulawayo Arts Awards happened. I had a speech, a good one, but when I got on stage nerves got the best of me. Let me say I have performed for tens of thousands in Europe and thousands here in Zimbabwe, but nothing compared to being on that stage at the Large City Hall on 30 June.
I watched my hand grow a mind of its own and shake uncontrollably. Why was it so? I could only think of two reasons.
One being that we knew it would happen but not to that much acceptance by the people. The second being we had seen an idea through and there was no turning back. I remember talking to Raisedon Baya when I was in Europe this past December telling him that when I return home in January, ita��s happening. I remember those meetings by his veranda when we decided this was it.
So this was part of my speech for that night:
Let me begin by acknowledging the very important people we are here about tonight, the artists. Secondly thank you to all the sponsors, and for fear of leaving out anyone let me say all protocol observed.
Tonight is proof enough that if you dream a good dream you can gather a thousand people under one roof and make a miracle.
This is proof that when a community comes together amazing things happen. Bulawayo Arts is not dead. The stars are shining tonight.
Everything you see today started many years ago and as with every new thing in this city, we were told it was just a dream, industries were closing down, a�?it will be hard to do or decision makers are based outside of Bulawayo so we will struggle to get partners and finally why you guys?a�?
For the coming years we nursed this dream. Finally City Council and Individuals bought into the dream, artistes followed suit, the community was not to be left behind and finally businesses and individuals saw the need to be part of the historic event.
Let me hasten to say the awards do not belong to any individual but the people of Bulawayo. Only Bulawayo can grow them or kill them.
The awards tonight are about recognising, honouring and celebrating local talent and effort in the arts. Tonight is about affirming Bulawayo as melting pot of talent and as the cultural capital of Zimbabwe.
Bulawayo, this is your night, a night to stand up and recognise outstanding effort and talent in the arts sector. Ita��s a night to celebrate our own in our own backyard. Tonight we are celebrating ourselves, our efforts, our brothers, sisters, our arts and culture.
Leta��s also remember in all the celebrations our brothers and sisters past who led the way for all of us. Reset in peace we will always remember you. Ita��s time to walk the walk. Amhlophe Bulawayo, have fun.a�?
So that was the speech, but on the night I just mumbled a few words and that was it. Thank you for supporting Bulawayo Arts Awards.
Until next week, be safe . . .
@nkuenkala
Online Reporter