Hope Masike on new book, mentorship programme

Laura Maposa

Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub

Acclaimed mbira queen Hope Masike has added another element to her profile and this time it is a mentorship program for women and another book.

She is known as “The Princess of Mbira” and her music has its roots both in traditional and modern African culture, has collaborated with other musicians such as Salif Keita, the late Oliver Mtukudzi, Steve Dyer and Loius Mhlanga.

She has several international tour credits including performing in Southern Africa, Asia, Europe and the west coast of America.

Her versatile music approach has seen her venture into different music collaborations.

In interview Masike said she can’t wait to pass one her knowledge to other Zimbabwean female artists.

“I believe that serving in your calling/ gift is the best employment you can give yourself and others around you.

“Done well, that alone will keep you energized and will inspire others around you.

“The women fit for joining the mentorship program. For now, we can only work with people in Harare. But the hope is to expand in time.

“We are also only focusing on women creatives for now because there are many women-related matters included in the current program.

“The program is also only for women creatives and women working or aspiring to work in the creative sector,” she said.

Masike, also an accomplished fashion designer, worked with the likes of Chiwoniso Maraire and has successfully established herself as the best female artiste in the genre.

“I think once one takes their gift as a calling it sorts out the passion and motivation matters.

“Understanding that gifts were designed to serve, understanding who you are and understanding what part of this gigantic world-wide puzzle you fill will become your fuel.

“If God has given you, you must give too. They say the sun doesn’t shine for itself. So where I can help propel the success of other women, I must help.

Her accomplishments as a musician include collaborating with various musicians from Mozambique, Norway and Sweden in a star group Monoswezi.

“I think if your good at something stay at it no matter good or bad,I hope fame does not catch up with most of these young artists.

“To stay on top you’ve got to work hard and interact with other artists ask how they’re making it.

“Let your imagination take over, give it your best and also be true to yourself.

“I try to keep working.

“If you are an athlete you keep at it, whether on the track or not.

“When you stop putting in the work, it’s harder or impossible to come back. I try to keep at it,” she said.

She has thrilled music lovers and critics globally. She has graced numerous corporate and national events as well as festivals in Zimbabwe, playing at presidents’ inaugurations, product launches, weddings, and many other kinds of events.

Besides performing, Masike is a music teacher, offering lessons in Mbira, voice, and Music Theory. She also ventures into mentoring younger musicians through her TribeHope Trust program called ‘The Seven of Us’.

Masike was featured in the Zimbabwean local soap opera Muzita Rababa.