Youths hail Chipawo project

Reckson Mandizvidza Entertainment reporter
Youths participating in the CHIPAWO “Youth Empowerment Through Performing Arts Project” have hailed the project as tailored to addressing the needs of budding artists.
The project which is the brainchild of CHIPAWO manager Chipo Basopo began earlier this month and is expected to run for a year with more than 25 youths taking part in different parts of the country.

The participants will receive certificates at the end of the course and are expected to be joining the art sector with ease.

One of the beneficiaries in the pioneering groups of youths, Sthabile Malambane, revealed that she is now aware of the challenges likely to be faced and how to overcome them.

“We have close to a month in the programme but I already feel the difference because not only am I now aware of how to tackle challenges of the industry but it has also broadened my choices.

“I am into filmmaking and the programme’s culture inclination makes me feel complete and I now feel I cannot go wrong with the experience I have amassed this far this will make it easy for me as I venture into my beloved arts field,” she said.

Another beneficiary, Tinashe Sarari also heaped praises for the programme noting that most of his colleagues are already enlightened through the exercise.

“Already we are now seeing the industry differently and whatever path we choose to follow; we now fully appreciate that there is life after music or acting and we are now aware that artists should be prepared for life after fame and even after fortune as this helps to balance them,” said the budding visual artist.

Speaking to Herald Entertainment, YETPAP programmes manager Memory Zidaka said the project would go a long way in promoting arts and culture in the country.

“The project is meant to equip would-be professional artists with the requisite skills and technical expertise that would help them prosper in the industry and be self sustainable.

“The programme is tailored to address any eventuality in the arts industry from performing arts, theatre, media and virtually everything.

“It gives them a professional flair necessary in the industry.

“They taught skills of marketing their services, proposal writing, presentation and all the vital skills for them to succeed in the industry where failure to plan and implement can lead to downfall, that way one would be a complete artist,” she explained.