Starbrite winner awarded

Showbiz Correspondent
SOME of the prizes for last year’s Starbrite talent search winner – Novuyo Seagirl Dube – were finally presented to her last week in Harare, though the major prize – a residential stand worth $30,000 – is still hanging in the balance.

The pint-sized performing artiste from Bulawayo, who beat 200 other contestants, was awarded $500, a voucher and gift hamper from Colcom, a G-Tel tablet as well as a recording contract.

Seagirl, who is part of all-female Afro Jazz trio, One Stand Band that features her twin sister Ntombi and Qeqeshiwe Mntambo, said the recording contract was a boost as most artistes struggle to secure funds to record their work.

“As musicians, our biggest hurdle is to look for money to record our music. Than concentrating on producing music, we find ourselves spending more time looking for money to record.

“This recording deal will definitely go a long way in enabling me to be absorbed in my music,” said Seagirl.

She said going solo did not mean she was leaving One Stand Band.

“One Stand Band is home. I just want to discover my potential as an artiste. Even the likes of Beyonce do solo projects and this is no different,” said Seagirl.

On the residential stand, Seagirl said she was waiting on the organisers and hoped they would hand it over to her soon.

“I’m glad organisers kept their word and gave me some of my prizes. I’m intending to use the prize money to develop the residential stand.

“We’re in talks with show organisers on when they’ll present the stand.”