Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
STAND-UP comedian, talent scout and mentor, Doc Vikela, says 2026 has been a year of self-introspection and upgrading his credentials for career development.
After years of pursuing stand-up comedy, talent scouting, marketing and advocacy work, the 40-year-old has decided to go back to the drawing board and explore new creative territories.
In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Doc Vikela, born Victor Mpofu, said he does not regret the new moves he made this year.
“I have had an eventful 2026. The year has been challenging and toughening enough,” Doc Vikela said.
“I have been doing more writing for film and YouTube features. This year, I enrolled for a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree in Film and Theatre.
“I am actually busy with examinations as we speak, but it has been an amazing experience.”
The affable creative said enrolling for the degree programme was one of the best decisions he made in 2026 as he seeks to enhance his career prospects.
“I have reached a point where I realised that I was doing more YouTube features while also transitioning into film and television.
“As such, I had to enhance my knowledge by upgrading my qualifications and broadening my understanding of the new career path I am pursuing.”
The actor, whose versatility has endeared him to fans, said he was blown away by the response to a movie he produced titled InterSEXions.
“I have produced a movie which is showing on YouTube and has garnered more than 80 000 views.
“To be honest with you, I wasn’t expecting such a massive response. This is a clear sign that we are doing something that is being embraced by many.”
He added:
“Before the end of the year, I will be screening a new short film as a Christmas present to my fans who look up to us.
“I have been working with my production company, Reel Motion Pictures, and this move is really working in my favour as well as benefiting the local creative sector.”
For someone who grew up in Gokwe and Gweru before finding fame and fortune in Harare through stand-up comedy, Doc Vikela has never underestimated the importance of personal growth.
“In life, there comes a time when you feel you need to grow, start something new or reinvent yourself, as I am doing.
“This year, I have done very little stand-up comedy, which is something I am looking forward to addressing as we head into the new year.
“As I said, I have been doing a lot of YouTube writing, particularly for feature films, and I have decided to venture further into that area as part of upgrading myself.
“I haven’t stopped doing what I love most. I am simply doing my best to upgrade myself, which is something I have been longing for.”
Unlike some of his peers who have fallen by the wayside after failing to adapt to changing trends, Doc Vikela’s quest for growth and success has helped him remain relevant and hardworking.
Like any other field, the creative sector continues to evolve, prompting him to work harder and invest more in his career development.
The former relief schoolteacher, salesman and marketer, who has won the hearts of many as a stand-up comedian, is undoubtedly one of the creative industry’s versatile talents.
His versatility has seen him feature in several local sitcoms (situational comedies), while continuing to upgrade his skills.
He has also featured in various local film and theatre productions, as well as prestigious festivals such as the Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA).
Through Simuka Comedy, he has groomed and nurtured several comedians who have since become household names.
