Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
SWEDEN-BASED storyteller, musician and cultural ambassador Luckson “ManLuckerz” Chikutu says he will continue to represent Zimbabwe with pride wherever he performs.
A music teacher and performer who has made Uppsala, Sweden, his home, ManLuckerz believes Zimbabwean culture is unique and should be preserved.
His work has earned him recognition among his peers as a champion of cultural exchange.
As August, commonly referred to as Heroes Month, draws to a close, ManLuckerz, who has lived in Europe for 27 years, remains one of Zimbabwe’s “uncrowned” yet valuable cultural ambassadors.
He has challenged Zimbabweans living abroad to embrace their heritage and ensure that their traditions remain alive for future generations.
“Our culture and customs shouldn’t change simply because we live abroad,” he told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub.
“For us to be respected and identified as Zimbabweans, our history must be preserved exactly as it is.
“Some people from foreign countries take great pride in keeping their customs and music alive. Let us also be able to respectfully maintain our customs.”
He added: “As Zimbabweans living abroad, let us take pride in preserving our music. As Zimbabweans, we must display the beauty of our music.
“Let’s be proud of our identity as Zimbabweans. Our ability to demonstrate that we are descendants of this land is crucial. Let’s take pride in our homeland. I adore you all. One love always. Together as one (Tao), as they say.”
ManLuckerz also challenged Zimbabweans to honour both the living and the late showbiz heroes throughout the year, rather than confining the celebrations to August.
“In my case, I hope we can use music to bring our families and friends together. We advance in life because of our unity. By taking the correct route, let’s maintain our traditions.
“Friends and family who live abroad, let’s remember our roots, our origins and our parents. Our customs are our heritage.
“In order to preserve our roots, traditions and traditional values, I also advise us to remember our departed warriors and allow them to rest in peace while paying attention to the invisible.”
He added: “We completed our project plan on schedule. Additionally, we had a very small budget, but we managed to stay within it.
“Since domestic violence is on the rise these days, a lot of research has been done.
“We were able to put more energy and power into raising awareness of domestic abuse and violence through music. We are hoping that many more people will take time to watch the ‘Babie’ video. It will make learning easier for us.”
Asked what makes the video unique compared to others, he said: “The times we live in now are pertinent to this video. Communicating the need for respect between men and women is crucial.
“We are communicating to the public that violence is wrong and that men and women should respect one another. Another objective is to show how we can end domestic abuse and stop physically repressing one another.”
