Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma [email protected]
AN inmate participating in the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) rehabilitation programme has defied the odds to emerge the overall winner of the Dreamstar Zimbabwe Season 10 finale, highlighting the transformative power of the arts.
Tinashe Kumunakwenje, who performs under the stage name Warrior Ting, claimed the top prize at the grand finale held in Harare, where he also won the People’s Choice Award, popularly known as the Chinese Ambassador Award.
Bulawayo also made a strong showing in the competition, with singer Tadiwa Moses finishing in second place, while No Name Dance Crew secured third position.
For the first time, the finale featured an alumni segment, with former contestants, including Mwenje Mathole and Fusion Five Mangwiro, sharing the stage with this year’s finalists in a mentorship showcase.
The Season 10 finale also marked Dreamstar Zimbabwe’s 10th anniversary, celebrating a decade of identifying, nurturing and promoting talent from across the country.
The participation and eventual triumph of Warrior Ting, who is part of the ZPCS rehabilitation programme, provided one of the most memorable moments of the event.
Managing director of China Zimbabwe Exchange Centre and executive producer of Dreamstar Zimbabwe, Mr Walter Chanaka, said the 10th anniversary represented a significant milestone for the platform.
“Over the past 10 years, the programme has grown into one of the country’s most recognisable arts platforms, launching the careers of emerging performers while broadening access to opportunities for young people.
“Dreamstar Zimbabwe is not just a competition; it is a vehicle for national development and social transformation. The programme is designed to fight social ills such as drug abuse by giving young people purpose and a positive outlet for their energy.
“To date, more than 5 000 people have benefited from this programme. Many participants have received full scholarships to study in China under the Chinese Government Scholarship, furthering their artistic education and cultural exchange,” he said.
Mr Chanaka said Warrior Ting’s double victory underscored the role of the arts in rehabilitation and social reintegration.
“Warrior Ting’s double victory is a testament to the transformative power of the arts in rehabilitation and social reintegration. Looking ahead, Dreamstar Zimbabwe aims to continue contributing to the arts and culture sector, expand its developmental focus through partnerships and send more performers to China for cultural diplomacy and exchange.
“We wish to extend our profound gratitude to the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture for its unwavering support, which has been instrumental in the growth and success of this platform.
“We also express our sincere appreciation to the Chinese Ambassador for continued support, which has significantly bolstered cultural exchange between Zimbabwe and China. Special thanks go to the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe for gracing the event and for its ongoing partnership in nurturing the arts industry,” he said.
Mr Chanaka also thanked the event’s sponsors and partners, including Beifa, China Railway No. 9, Beaut4u, Ganzim, the Chinese Embassy, Wild Africa, Modern Security, Hyatt and Cresta Lodge.
— @mthabisi_mthire
