Online Reporter
Maria Chiguvari
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
SONGBIRD Gemma Griffith isn’t letting her new engagement halt her work to build a very powerful brand, which will be separate from her personal life.
Her podcast, “Hello, Hi With Gemma” is now a year old.
The first guest was superstar musician Jah Prayzah.
The podcast revolves around the richness of conversations she was already having with creatives about Zimbabwe.
Throughout this journey, she has developed a deeper appreciation for radio hosts, talk show presenters and interviewers, who have mastered this craft.
“Being a host is definitely a very different set of skills.
“I remember feeling quite nervous when I did my first interview, imagine the very first guest was Jah Prayzah.
“It’s such a different dynamic. I’ve learned a lot through this process, especially on how to really listen.
“It’s been a journey. I’ve grown even more respectful of the amazing radio hosts, talk show hosts and interviewers who do every day.”
Gemma added:
“The podcast was inspired by having amazing conversations about Zimbabwe with creatives.
“There’s a wealth of knowledge behind the stories of creatives both in front of and behind the camera.
“The goal with the podcast is to be a place where people can come and listen to amazing Zimbabweans share insight into the industry, and their journey.
“Hello, Hi is a celebration of Zimbabwe and creativity both at home and around the world,” she said.
One of the standout moments for the podcast comes with the feature of internationally -acclaimed producer Brian Soko, whose discussion on the Grammys added a global dimension to the platform.
“There have been so many stand-out moments; every guest brings something different.
“From Lorraine on intellectual property, to Nutty O on spirituality, Ammara Brown on being a woman in music, and Kim Jayde on building a brand… the conversations are always real.
“This month with Brian Soko talking about the Grammys is a big one. At the heart of it, ‘Hello, Hi’ is just about honest, human conversations.
“Telling Zimbabwean stories has always been both natural and intentional for me. Growing up in Zimbabwe shaped who I am, so it naturally shows up in my music.
“But I also strongly believe our stories deserve to be heard loudly. Zimbabwe is something to celebrate, and I’ll always reflect that in my art always.”
The launch of her podcast came with a deeply reflective phase in her life.
Turning 30 at that time made her think about legacy, growth and her journey over a decade in the creative industry.
“I had turned 30 and was really thinking about not only the future and the legacy that I hope to leave behind one day but reflecting on my journey as a creative and paying homage to a decade in the industry as well.”
Her manager, Taponesa Mavunga, said stepping into the role of host for her was not an easy transition.
“The experience marked a turning point, teaching her the art of listening and the nuances of meaningful conversation.
“Through this journey, she has developed a deeper appreciation for radio hosts, talk show presenters and interviewers who master this craft daily,” said Mavunga.
