Online Reporter
Trust Khosa and Langalihle Mhiti
Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
Zimbabwe’s iconic dance ensemble, Inkululeko Yabatsha School of Arts (IYASA), is proudly celebrating its 25th anniversary, having produced a remarkable array of stars.
As a distinguished arts institution, IYASA has risen to prominence under the leadership of Nkululeko Dube.
In a recent interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Dube emphasised their commitment to making a lasting impact in the arts sector. “IYASA is an institution, and we are proud to be marking this significant milestone,” he shared. “As a group, we have won over 30 awards, and that alone means a lot to us. Being one of the revered institutions in the land, we are glad that we have persevered to reach where we are today. I am also grateful for the support we have received, which has helped us endure.”
Dube, a reputable arts practitioner from Bulawayo, noted that consistency has been key to their longevity.
“We groom stars who come and go, and one of our stand-out products, Sandra Ndebele, has proven to be a valuable asset that we will cherish for years to come. There are others who have settled abroad, and we are proud that they represent us with dignity, especially Future Sibanda, who is now shining overseas,” Dube pointed out. His pride in the achievements of former students highlights the institution’s role in fostering talent that transcends borders.
“We are only here to groom and nurture stars to ensure that they go places. In my case, I am glad that we have done that, and our mission is now clear for all the people to see what we are striving for,” he stated. Dube also acknowledged the challenges faced by the arts sector, particularly the lack of professionalism that hinders its growth. “There are several challenges this sector has faced over the years, but sometimes we are our own biggest enemies due to a lack of professionalism. I wish all the arts ensembles could do better and be professional, as that has always been my wish.” He believes that cultivating a culture of professionalism is essential for the further development of the arts in the region and beyond. “We need to work together to elevate the standards within our industry,” he emphasised.
By establishing workshops and training programmes, IYASA aims to empower emerging artistes with the skills and knowledge to thrive professionally.
“Without professionalism, the arts sector won’t grow to gain the respect it deserves. I have noted that a number of arts ensembles have collapsed due to a lack of professionalism, which has left many of them in limbo.”
He added, “We have always gone out of our way by holding workshops which have yielded the desired results. Of course, we lack funding, but I will continue doing my best, especially this year when we are celebrating 25 years in the game. The year 2001 feels like yesterday, but we are glad that we have reached this milestone with pride,” asserted Dube.
In the pursuit of excellence, IYASA is also focusing on community engagement. “We have come to a point where we have realised that talent should not go to waste.” Dube expressed a desire to initiate outreach programmes that will introduce arts education in schools and promote cultural awareness. “Art has the power to transform lives and unite people,” Dube affirmed. The popular ensemble has participated in State functions due to their authenticity and originality. Under the stewardship of Dube, the group has always represented Zimbabwe both regionally and internationally.
Having such an ensemble will always be a blessing to the nation at a time when the creative sector has been playing a pivotal role in storytelling, which is key to Zimbabwe’s development. This is an area where Dube has mastered the art, and he justifies all the awards he has won so far.
