admin
Mathew Masinge
ORGANISERS of the Makakosha Business Network Glam Awards, which were held on Friday, have brushed aside claims that they stole the name of their show.
The inaugural MBN Glam Awards were held at the Golden Conifer where a number of outstanding Zimbabwean socialites, artists and influencers were honoured.
A brainchild of Alojzija Slava Chidzero, the awards recognised local celebrities, including Mudiwa Hood, Mama Vee, Tariro Gezi, Zoro, various makeup artists and photographers.
However, Albert Chigiya, who has been hosting a similar event dubbed ‘The Glam Awards,’ since 2017, claims his concept was stolen.
“I founded the The Glam Awards targeting the youth from 14 to 31 years of age and some of the awards have been given to Midlands State University students.
“I am going to pursue legal action against an event falsely held at Golden Conifer, wrongly marketed as The Glam Awards,” fumed Chigiya in a social media post.
He even threatened to sue this publication for covering the event.
But, Mandipa Business Network director, Mandipa Mashoko, said although the award names sounded similar, they target different audiences.
She said they secured all the necessary paperwork and clearance to host the event.
“We, at Makakosha Business Network, hosted the MBN 2024 Glam Awards. It’s important to note that this event is distinct from any other award show bearing the same name.
“We want to clarify that we are not affiliated with “The Glam Awards.’”
Mandipa said the “Glam” was a common English word and not a patent which belongs to an individual or organisation.
“The common word ‘Glam’ is an English word and is not a patent to anyone or organisation.
“Please note, our certificates and advertising materials have our name ‘MBN 2024 Glam Awards’ on them, which means they are exclusive to our organisation.
“These events, although they almost have a similar name, are very different, targeting a different group of people altogether,” she said.
Officials from the National Arts Council said they were looking into the issue.He claims he has held four successful award shows and will host the 2024 edition on April 18.
Online Reporter