Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
MICHELLE Banda, better known as Star Michy, an artiste manager, event organiser, and hip-hop advocate, has been selected to participate in the highly competitive 2025 Gender@Work programme by the Music In Africa Foundation (MIAF) set for the City of Tshwane, South Africa, from 26 October to November 1.
This recognition comes hot on the heels of another significant achievement: Star Michy Entertainment was recently named among the Top 40 finalists in the Old Mutual Value Creation Challenge (VCC), highlighting her growing influence in Zimbabwe’s creative business landscape.
Star Michy’s deep roots in the music industry are well-established. Beyond founding Star Michy Entertainment and managing talents like Rockie DoUb, Kuly Tangu, and KBrizzy, she sits on the Zimbabwe Musicians Union (ZiMU) board and serves as an executive member of the Zim Hip Hop Awards. She is also the driving force behind the popular “ForTheCity” hip-hop celebration events.
Speaking about her selection for Gender@Work, Star Michy expressed excitement: “It feels amazing, and it serves as a confirmation that I am on the right path.”
She highlighted key expectations: “Networking mostly and meeting Benza the man behind AKA’s success, I need his formula.”
Reflecting on her recent VCC experience, she noted valuable lessons: “I learnt how to structure my creative business and how to make it profitable.”
Looking ahead, her ambitions are clear: “Regional takeover, then next stop the global stage. I’m excited.”
The MIAF Gender@Work programme is renowned for equipping exceptional African women with vital skills for the music industry. The 2025 cohort will undergo intensive training in both Event Production (including a practical internship at the Music In Africa Conference For Collaborations, Exchange And Showcases (ACCES25) music trade show in South Africa) and Music Business (delivered online).
Modules cover critical areas like stage management, live sound, lighting, event planning, budgeting, artist management, branding, marketing, and intellectual property. Participants also benefit from mentoring, networking, and further internship opportunities.
Star Michy’s participation places her among a select group of women skilled for roles in stage management, artiste management, and event planning across the continent, marking another significant step in her mission to elevate Zimbabwean talent. – Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu
