Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma-Zimpapers Arts, Entertainment Hub
The National Arts Merit Awards (Nama) on Wednesday hosted a capacity-building workshop in Harare, bringing together various stakeholders in the Creative and Cultural Industries (CCIs).
This workshop follows Nama’s announcement in May of the new event managers for the 2026–2030 tenure, appointing Scarlet Studios in partnership with Events Evolution.
The appointment came after a rigorous selection process aimed at ensuring the continued integrity and excellence of the prestigious awards.
Scarlet Studio and Events Solutions have hit the ground running as they push to equip artistes and industry players with the knowledge and tools required to produce globally competitive work.
Artistes from all 10 provinces of Zimbabwe attended the event.
Held at a local hotel in Harare, the workshop covered a range of critical topics, including branding, digital marketing, the Nama process and registration with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ).
The programme aimed to capacitate the sector with knowledge on how they can produce globally competitive work.
National Arts Council of Zimbabwe Director of Arts Promotion and Development Barbara Gotore said as NACZ, it is their mandate to train the sector and to disseminate information.
“Noteworthy is that we have committed with our partnership (Scarlet Studios and Events Evolution) to be inclusive in this programme by ensuring nationwide representation.
“As Government, we continue to sing loud that no one and no place should be left behind. As such we hope that what you learnt here, you will share with others from your respective sub sectors and provinces,” said Gotore.
She said artistes bring unique perspectives and talents to the table.
“Branding, marketing and navigating awards processes are essential tools for success in the arts. They help you stand out, connect with your audience and gain recognition for your work. We will explore these topics in-depth, sharing insights and best practices to help you amplify your artistic careers. I’m confident that the discussions and networking opportunities will inspire and empower you to take your art to the next level,” said Gotore.
Meanwhile, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub caught up with a number of artistes from across the country who shared their inputs towards the one-day workshop.
Mandipa Masuku of the Munch n Sip brand said: “I’m genuinely glad they finally took the step to engage the very people their policies are meant to impact. That’s a move in the right direction. But let’s be honest — the arts industry still feels overlooked. It’s often sidelined because it challenges norms, encourages expression and holds power to account — and that can make people uncomfortable.
What’s frustrating is that the value of the arts is measurable, yet we rarely see the stats or metrics being presented.
“As Napoleon Nyanhi put it so well: “If there are no arts in the country, you have a big mentally depressed nation.” That should say it all.
The arts deserve the same respect and investment as industries like sports and tourism — because they don’t just complement each other, they build a stronger, more balanced society,” said Masuku.
Actress and songstress Lee McHoney said such workshops are critical in helping artistes find their way to success.
“This workshop has helped me with the knowledge and skill I need to make my brand better, to be able to make myself more visible to my audience and to network with other artistes across the country.
“This is important for me as an artist as I have a sense of community and to have people willing to facilitate that,” she said.
Musician Bhadilah from Beitbridge said it was an honour to represent the rainbow province, Matabeleland South, as he will embark on sharing the acquired knowledge to his colleagues.
He said it is pleasing to see the change of doing things where artistes from small towns are involved in crucial stakeholder engagements.
“I would like to applaud the current NACZ leadership as there are making sure that every artiste in the country is appreciated and valued. Back in the days we would only hear of artistes from big towns or cities taking part in such workshops, but now it’s a thing of the past.
“It was a very insightful engagement and I hope this will be cascaded down to every province and district as artistes really need to learn more about the Nama processes and the pros of being under NACZ especially if there are determined to enter the international market,” said Bhadilah.
Muffia King, a producer at Danica Studios in Victoria Falls said the workshop was informative as he has set his eyes on growing their brand to other countries.
“The workshop was a game-changer for my creative journey. These insights have empowered me to think strategically about my art as a business, rather than just a passion.
“The sessions on digital marketing were particularly enlightening, as they equipped me with the tools to reach a wider audience and promote my work effectively. Additionally, the discussion on national arts registration high-lighted the importance of formal recognition and support for artistes in our country,” he said.
“Overall, this workshop has been instrumental in helping me refine my artistic practice, develop a stronger brand identity, and connect with like-minded creatives. I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn from industry experts and look forward to applying these new skills to elevate my art and contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape of our nation,” said Muffia King.
Harare based versatile artiste Sarah Dee said:
“The workshop helps us open our eyes and know which path to follow in order to be professional and commercialise our works and earn a fair income to survive. But there is a lot to be done through artiste’s working hand in hand with those who represent and stand for us in this industry. The environment must be user friendly if not for this generation but the next generation,” said Sarah Dee.
Bulawayo based musician Msiz’kay said:
“I’m informed and very inspired as I chase my dreams and goals,” he said.
