adminFaith Mandizha
AWARD-WINNING Zimbabwean comedian, Learnmore “Long John” Mwanyenyeka, has created a “Go Fund Me” website to get assistance in his quest to apply for a Green Card as an Alien of Extraordinary Ability.
Long John, who is currently in Pittsburgh, USA, on tour, believes a paying job would help him to supplement his career.
The comedian made his appeal on his Instagram post where he has already got a response with many fans making donations.
“Currently, I’m on a B-1 /B-2 visa, which has so many restrictions in terms of prospects that I would like to pursue and advance my career in the US.
“Under it, I’m not able to get paid for my work and there’s a lot of limitations like not being allowed to be on TV, which is a major source of exposure that I much need to propel me to the next level.
“I’ve had to turn down life-changing opportunities because my visa could not allow me to take part in those – a network wanted me to audition for them but needs to wait until I get a different visa,” he said.
In his post, Long John indicated that the process was quite expensive and anything that people can spare would be greatly appreciated.
He is aiming to file his application in August / September and pay his lawyers by the end of July.
“… I have to leave the USA in August as per my current visa, so, if I’m able to retain my immigration lawyer by then, I will be able to extend my stay and not leave.
“The biggest goal right now is to get to US$4 000 so I can have my lawyer file the paperwork so that I don’t have to leave the country in August. I would be so grateful for anything you could give.”
According to his website, Long John made his comedy debut in 2012.
He has since performed alongside the biggest names on the African continent and performed in over 25 cities, across 15 countries, at various TV Shows, theatres, comedy clubs, and festivals.
Most recently, he has performed at Apollo Comedy Theatre.
In 2019, he won the National Arts Merit Awards as the Outstanding Comedian of the Year.
He won the same award the following year.
Long John also won the Savanna Comic Choice Awards as the Pan African Comic of the Year.
He was also the People’s Choice Award winner in Steve Harvey’s Stand Up Spotlight competition.
He has been touring the United States since last year.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter