Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
AS the vibrant cultural ensemble, Iyasa, turns 24 this year, its journey reads like a script written with passion, resilience and purpose.
What began as a modest school drama club at Mpopoma High School in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s cultural hub, has since evolved into an internationally renowned performing arts academy.
With the silver jubilee just around the corner, their story is one of evolution. From classroom skits, they have gone on to dazzle at weddings, national galas, major local events and international festivals. This milestone reflects not only longevity but also a remarkable journey of transformation, perseverance and global impact.
Over nearly a quarter of a century, Iyasa has toured extensively, sharing its unique style and passion with diverse audiences and inspiring generations of dancers and performers. From humble beginnings and unwavering commitment, Iyasa’s rise is a tale that borders on the extraordinary.
The story begins with a BuKalanga boy from Mphoengs in Mangwe District, Matabeleland South Province , Nkululeko Dube , who dreamt of transforming the creative landscape and did just that.
In an interview with the Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Dube reflected on Iyasa’s journey, highlighting how the ensemble represents various generations, each playing their part before passing the baton.
“Naturally, the pioneer generation, which included the likes of Sandra Ndebele, Futurelove Sibanda, the late Sibonisiwe Sithole and Emmanuel Dlamini, Prelude Sibindi, Tsungai Tsikirai, Noma ‘Nkwali’ Mkwananzi, Silethemba, Pepsie Magonya, Nkosana Ncube, also known as DJ Prince Esikhosini, Noel Nhengu, and Bukhosi Nyathi (Mr Jaiva), among others, left unforgettable memories. They laid the foundation for the generations that followed,” said Dube.
“They ignited a dream that was then taken forward by the likes of Benhilda Ngwenya, the late Sonia Mbaya, Phibion Ncube (now director of Ezimnyama), Bekithemba Phiri (Asante Mo), Roben ‘Mamozi’ Mlauzi, Memory Zikhali, Lameck Keswa, Thembinkosi Dube, Cheryl Mabaya and many others. The list is endless and attempting to name everyone is a delicate task.”
Dube proudly noted that Iyasa has served as an incubator for many of Zimbabwe’s artistic talents, whose footprints are now visible throughout the arts sector.
“There’s hardly an event where our alumni are not involved in some way. Well over 100 artistes have passed through our ranks,” he said.
“The idea of Iyasa matured over time, and every step we took was a learning curve. I’m satisfied with what we’ve achieved. We wanted to give young people a platform to build careers in the arts — we did. We aimed to become both a local and international brand, we did. We wanted to create a ‘school’ where individuals could move on, but the essence of our work would remain and we achieved that too.”
Importantly, Dube emphasised that Iyasa was never meant to rely solely on individual brilliance.
“We didn’t want to create a group that existed only through a few stand-out talents. We envisioned an academy that would help artistes discover broader opportunities and yes, we’ve achieved that.
“We hoped to spark a revolution in the arts sector. I’m proud to say we arguably revolutionised dance in Zimbabwe with our contemporary style. We’ve produced dancers, musicians, theatre performers, technicians, managers and even politicians, radio and TV personalities and DJs, both locally and abroad.”
Reflecting on the journey, Dube acknowledged that the 24 years have brought both challenges and triumphs.
“Yes, we’ve faced our fair share of hardships. When some of our artistes moved on to greener pastures, people thought it might be the end. During economic downturns, survival was tough. But all those challenges, those necessary evils, made us stronger and better.
“Our achievements, from international productions and collaborations to global tours, are well documented. We’ve performed in Austria, Germany, France, Serbia, Japan, Taiwan, the USA, Italy, Botswana, Eswatini, Zambia, South Africa, Liechtenstein, the list goes on.”
The numerous group and individual awards, Dube said, are further testament to their success.
“Our artistes have excelled individually, with some now based abroad and thriving in the industry. Chart-topping acts like Banolila, and collaborations with top artistes such as Jah Prayzah, Jeys Marabini, Chase Skuza, Tanga WekwaSando and Jonah Moyo, all tell part of our story.
“Our songs like S’jaiva Sibancane and Bump Jive have also made an impact. To have scholars and university students researching Iyasa, and to be featured in textbooks and educational materials, it’s humbling.”
Dube was quick to point out that Iyasa’s journey has never been a solo effort.
“This isn’t a one-man show. Many people helped build this brand and continue to do so. People like Albert Nyathi, Pedzisai Sithole, Bhekilizwe Ndlovu, Cont Mhlanga, former Minister Jonathan Moyo, Omega Sibanda, the late Sihlangu Dlodlo, my late mentor Mbongeni Ngema, Stephan Rabl, Picco Kellner, Richard Ndlovu, Mr Nicholas Moyo, Rev PB Damasane and groups like Umkhathi, Savuka and Siyaya. The list goes on.
“Venues such as The New Winderemere, Alabama, Metropolis, 747, Back of the Moon and Savanna gave us platforms. TV shows like Friday at Amakhosi and live-broadcast national galas helped take our story nationwide — and then international. For all of that, we are grateful.
“Weddings, festivals, fellow artistes, promoters, government departments, corporates and NGOs — they all played pivotal roles.”
Today, Iyasa has over 35 members and students, a number that fluctuates as new talent enters and others leave for tertiary education.
“Current prominent members include Anele Sithole, Njabulo Gondwe, Precious Mathuthu, Dorcas Ngwenya, Donecia Dube, Lauratta Phiri, Maud Bizure, Axilliar Gwauya, Princess Sibanda, Joaquim Mlotshwa, Mkhaliphi Dube, Michael Ndlovu, Sasha Jones, Kelvin Nyoni, Wisdom Mpofu, Nqobizitha Ncube, Nyasha Dziruni, Nonhlanhla Ncube, Patience Dube, Alfred Ndlovu, Patrick Seni, Ntokozo Ndlovu, Mxolisi Ndlovu and Lindokuhle Ngwenya.”
Giving back remains central to Iyasa’s ethos. Dube, a former teacher at Mpopoma High where the group was birthed, has maintained a strong focus on schools.
“We partnered with Culture Fund during the early years to launch the, Isiphiwo Sami Talent Search programme, promoting arts talent in schools. Over 40 schools participate. Every two years, selected students get the opportunity to tour Germany, showcase their talents and engage in cultural exchange through our partnership with KinderKinder and KulturKarawane. This keeps our academy fresh, helps us rediscover ourselves and ensures we remain relevant.”
Looking ahead, Dube’s focus is on building a lasting legacy.
“It’s almost 25 years now. I hope to build a sustainable legacy that continues beyond my retirement. It’s possible — we just need to plan carefully.
“For now, we want to remain relevant, grow each day, stay positive and keep our academy’s momentum, goals and objectives intact. As we move forward, our focus is clear — sustainability, relevance and continued growth.”
Bongani Ndlovu