Online Reporter
Obey Musiwa
ANOTHER window of opportunity has opened for Zimbabwe’s creative sector.
The local creatives are finding new pathways to opportunity through BLAZE’s Trailblazers campaign.
It’s a platform designed to transform raw vision into viable careers and industries.
The campaign recognises that talent alone is rarely enough hence need to bridge the gap between artistic ability and professional access as an ecosystem where young creatives with untapped talents can learn, collaborate, and build sustainable futures.
In a press statement, BLAZE Trailblazers founder, Thabiso Molai, emphasised that the campaign is about access and investment, not charity.
He said it aims to empower young Zimbabweans as creators and entrepreneurs.
“Trailblazers is built on a simple belief, young Zimbabweans have never lacked talent; they have lacked access and opportunity.
“t is not charity, it is an investment in the next generation of creators, entrepreneurs and leaders,” he said.
The campaign intends to partner with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe to expand its reach and ensure that young creatives from all corners of the country have an opportunity to access exposure and showcase their talent.
In this regard, Molai said trailblazers are not only about showcasing talent but about building a creative ecosystem that can generate employment and drive national development.
“A thriving creative ecosystem can stimulate tourism, entrepreneurship, technology and cultural exports — supporting creativity is also about supporting economic development.”
Stylist Llewelyn Kukondori (Tecco 10) said the workshops exposed creatives to the business side of their craft, proving that success requires more than talent alone.
“Our first workshop was in Harare, we learnt so much and got exposed to the different elements of business regarding our craft, notably the many elements that go into production, to name a few.
“It reminded us that succeeding in the creative economy requires more than artistic ability, it is about marketing, managing finances, and building a brand,” he said.
Fashion creative and stylist, Panashe Kunzero (Pinky), said Trailblazers validates creative work as an industry worth investing in, not just admiring aesthetically.
“It is rare to see people who care about your craft and want to capacitate you to reach your maximum.
“Our craft is not that understood, so to find a brand willing to expand your horizons is amazing.”
