Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu-Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
DYNAMIC UK radio presenter, author, and public speaker Julie Efrance is joining forces with hip-hop head, radio personality and artist manager Naboth Rizla in an exciting collaboration.
Together, they’re creating a platform for Zimbabwean talent on Cosoro Radio, the UK’s “number one Afrobeats radio station.”
This partnership aims to amplify the voices of Zimbabwean artists and provide them with the exposure they need to thrive in the global music scene.
Rizla, known for his dedication to the growth of local talent, has been instrumental in creating opportunities for artists in Bulawayo.
“I’m thrilled to be a bridge for Zimbabwean voices trying to break into the British market. There’s so much talent back home that deserves to be heard, and this partnership with Julie is a fantastic opportunity to showcase that,” Rizla said.
Julie, who is of Ugandan descent, has built a career around helping others find their voice.
Her journey is not just about personal success; it’s a testament to the power of meaningful conversations and emotional honesty.
“I thrive on meaningful conversations, emotional honesty, and exploring the layers of human experience,” she said.
Her formative years, spent moving between countries, taught her the importance of visibility and representation.
“I learned early how easily people become invisible in the margins and in a noisy world,” she reflected.
This understanding has fuelled her mission to amplify the voices of those often overlooked.
In a world where many feel unheard, Julie believes that “the most radical thing you can do is make people feel heard.”
This philosophy has shaped her work in radio, where she aims to create platforms for raw, unfiltered storytelling.
Her influence is felt deeply in the communities she engages with, making her a perfect ally for Zimbabwean voices seeking recognition.
The collaboration with Rizla is a significant step in giving Zimbabwean artists a platform on an international stage. Julie’s show, “ChatSpace,” has already become a hub for transformative conversations, featuring influential figures from various backgrounds.
“Chat Space thrives where vulnerability meets velocity,” she said.
For Julie, this collaboration is more than just a professional endeavour; it’s a mission to foster connections that transcend geographical boundaries.
“The mentors who saw my fire before I did.”
Her interaction with Rizla has been particularly inspiring.
“Our first conversation felt like I had met him 10 years prior,” she recalled.
This connection reflects a shared vision of empowering artists and creating a sustainable ecosystem for talent to flourish.
Through her platform, Julie aims to not only promote Zimbabwean artists but also to instil a sense of pride and recognition for their work.
She believes that this visibility can spark a movement within the Zimbabwean creative community, encouraging more artists to showcase their talents.
Adding another layer to her multifaceted identity, Julie is also a Miss/Mrs Africa UK/IE 2025 participant.
“This title makes me feel empowered and responsible. I have not always been a model; this stems from my commitment to inspiring others,” she shares. Her journey took a poignant turn when she decided to join the pageant to leave a legacy for her son, who tragically passed away at the age of 19, just four months ago.
“This desire rose from a lived experience of losing my son. I decided to create a charity in his name to support parents who have lost their loved ones suddenly by providing services such as counselling, mentorship, and therapy,” she said.
