Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
THE countdown to the National Arts Merit Awards has taken a stylish turn following the official unveiling of this year’s red-carpet hosts.
It is a bold, all-women-led line-up that signals a renewed focus on fashion, professionalism and purpose.
For NAMA24, the red carpet will not merely be a runway of cameras and couture, it will be a statement space curated and commanded by women at the top of their game.
Fashion icon Hollywood Lee, Bulawayo-based media personality Taboka, and Eugene from Power FM, will host the red carpet, bringing together fashion authority, regional media influence and broadcast experience.
The trio’s appointment has already generated excitement within creative circles, with many viewing it as a progressive step towards elevating the awards’ overall presentation.
Organisers say the move reflects the evolving identity of NAMA, one that is increasingly global in outlook while remaining grounded in local culture.
The red carpet, often criticised in previous years for lacking structure, is now being repositioned as a disciplined, intentional platform that reflects the maturity of Zimbabwe’s arts industry.
Hollywood Lee, widely respected for shaping fashion narratives both on and off the runway, said it was both exciting and symbolic.
“We are extremely excited about this opportunity,” said Lee.
“This is girl power in action. We are bringing our A game, not just in terms of fashion, but in how we carry the conversations, how we engage artists, and how we present Zimbabwe to the world.”
She added that the trio has been working closely to ensure chemistry, clarity of roles, and a shared vision.
“People often think hosting the red carpet is just about asking who someone is wearing,” she said.
“But it’s bigger than that. It’s about confidence, timing, respect, and understanding the industry.
“We want the red carpet to feel organised, aspirational, and world-class.”
One of the defining aspects of this year’s red carpet will be education.
The hosts have made it clear that part of their mission is to guide artists, guests, and even fans on how to properly engage with red-carpet culture – from dress codes to conduct.
“We are educating locals that the red carpet is a professional space,” Lee said.
“It’s not a random hangout. Dress appropriately, respect the setting, and understand that cameras are rolling for national and international audiences.”
This message comes at a time when local award ceremonies are increasingly under scrutiny on social media, where fashion hits and misses can quickly overshadow artistic achievements.
By emphasising etiquette and preparation, the hosts hope to strike a balance between creative freedom and professional standards.
Taboka’s inclusion brings a strong Bulawayo and Matabeleland presence to the forefront, reinforcing NAMA’s national reach.
As a respected media figure in the region, her role is seen as a nod to inclusivity and regional representation within the arts ecosystem.
Her calm yet engaging style is expected to complement the high-fashion energy of Hollywood Lee and the broadcast polish of Eugene.
Eugene, known for her work on Power FM, adds a dynamic radio-to-TV crossover element to the red carpet.
Her experience in live presenting and audience engagement is expected to keep interviews flowing smoothly while maintaining momentum as artists arrive. Beyond the red carpet, anticipation is also building around the main awards ceremony itself.
NAMA24 will feature performances from some of Zimbabwe’s top local acts, blending established names with emerging talent.
Organisers have hinted at carefully curated performances designed to reflect the diversity of local music from contemporary sounds to culturally rooted expressions.
The performance line-up, coupled with the revamped red carpet, positions NAMA24 as more than just an awards night.
It is shaping up to be a cultural showcase a night where fashion, music, media, and identity intersect.
Industry observers say the decision to foreground women on the red carpet aligns with broader conversations about representation and leadership in the creative sector.
By placing women at the centre of one of the most visible aspects of the event, NAMA24 is sending a clear message about confidence, competence, and creative authority.
Social media reaction to the host announcement has been largely positive, with many praising the organisers for prioritising style, discipline, and professionalism.
Fashion designers, stylists, and creatives have also expressed excitement, predicting a red carpet that will reward preparation and originality.
“We want people to remember this red carpet,” Lee said.
“Not just for the outfits, but for the energy, the respect, and the standard we set. This is about celebrating our arts industry properly.”
Mathew Masinge