dyton mupawaenda
Tafara Chibanda
ACTRESS Patience Musa, popularly known as Amai Jilimba, is celebrating 38 years in the Zimbabwean arts industry.
Close to four decades, Amai Jilimba has developed into one of the most sought-after artists in the industry where she is now a veteran in producing, directing, and make-up artistry.
She has featured in many roles in various productions.
Her journey began in the mid ‘80s.
Mai Jilimba’s entry into acting came at a time when ZBC was actively seeking to create content that reflected the Zimbabwean identity.
This initiative was aimed at empowering local talent.
“For me, it was just for that moment.
“I had no plans for the future in acting because I never saw it as something that would be my main career.
“What I just wanted was to make people laugh and nothing beyond that,” she said.
Her journey took a significant turn when she met renowned writer and filmmaker Aaron Chiundura Moyo.
This encounter led her to audition for ZBC, where she successfully made the grade.
From the late ‘80s to now, Musa has been a permanent fixture on Zimbabwean television.
She has featired in dramas such as “Mawoko Matema”, “Hupenyu Mutoro”, “Kurauone”, “Zuku”, “Nzungu Muriva”, “Mafuro Manyoro”, “Gehena Harina Moto”, “Mawombera,” and many others.
“I sharpened my skills as a make-up artist, training in Chishawasha. Over the years my expertise contributed to the success of many drama projects.
“I also did the make-up for the ‘madman’ Dyson in ‘Mawoko Matema.’”.
Her collaborative spirit has seen her partner with notable figures on the Zimbabwean entertainment scene like Jah Prayzah, whom she described as professional.
“Working with Jah Prayzah on the video for ‘Mukuwasha’ taught us the importance of rigorous rehearsal and quality production,” she said. Even when they did not meet the deadlines, according to the contracts, they paid for the extra days and talked to us, which is different from others.”
Amai Jilimba’s partnerships with directors and actors like Stembeni Makawa, Dorothy Chidzawo, Stephen Musowe and Stephen Chigorimbo have been pivotal in shaping her career.
“As a passionate advocate for the arts, I founded Amai Jilimba Production, a platform designed to nurture young actors and provide opportunities for aspiring talent.
“My vision includes establishing a dedicated arts centre in Zimbabwe, equipped with the necessary resources for high-quality productions.”
Despite her success, Mai Jilimba faces challenges which are common in the Zimbabwean arts industry such as inadequate funding and limited resources.
“These challenges have not deterred me, instead, they have fuelled my advocacy for structural support and better infrastructure for the arts,” she said.
Online Reporter
