Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWEAN martial arts champion Shihan Wilfred “Zim Ninja” Mashaya says his historic double victory at the 2026 Annual National Sports Awards (ANSA) belongs to every Zimbabwean who believes in discipline, hard work and the transformative power of sport.
Mashaya won the inaugural People’s Choice Award after receiving 7 816 votes from more than 15 000 cast nationwide before also being named Coach of the Year Silver Award at the awards ceremony held at Casino Marina, Longcheng Plaza in Harare on May 15.
Reflecting on the achievement, Mashaya described the recognition as a defining moment not only in his career but also for Zimbabwean martial arts.
“These awards are not mine alone. They belong to every Zimbabwean who believes in discipline, unity, service and hard work,” he said.
Mashaya said he dedicated the awards to aspiring athletes, particularly young people in rural communities and high-density suburbs, whom he hopes to inspire through sport.
“I was there on behalf of every martial artist committed to discipline; every student at Zim Ninja Academy; every child from Guruve, Domboshava, Mbare, Highfields, Gokwe, Gutu and communities across Zimbabwe’s rural areas and townships who dares to dream beyond their circumstances; every young person choosing discipline over drugs; and every proud member of Zimbabwe’s Uniformed Forces serving the nation with honour,” he said.
He said his journey has always been driven by a desire to transform lives through martial arts rather than simply collecting trophies.
“My journey has never been about collecting trophies. It has always been about transforming lives. Martial arts is more than combat. It builds discipline, leadership, resilience, confidence and hope,” he said.
Through Zim Ninja Academy, Mashaya said he has focused on nurturing talent while using sport to fight drug and substance abuse among young people.
He said the People’s Choice Award, which was introduced for the first time this year, reflected the confidence Zimbabweans have placed in his work both inside and outside the dojo.
“To every Zimbabwean who voted for me, thank you. Your belief means more than words can express. I promise to continue raising our national flag higher on the international stage,” he said.
Mashaya also paid tribute to fellow nominees, saying each had made significant contributions to Zimbabwean sport.
“To all the nominees, you are all champions. This award could have gone to any one of you and would have been equally deserved,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude to Commissioner-General of Police Stephen Mutamba, the Zimbabwe Republic Police, the Zimbabwe Karate Union, Zim Ninja Academy, the Sports and Recreation Commission, the Ministry of Sports, his family, friends and supporters for their unwavering support.
Mashaya said his success should encourage young Zimbabweans to reject drug and substance abuse and instead pursue sporting excellence.
“Every training session is a step away from destruction and towards purpose. Every dojo is a place where character is moulded and futures are transformed. Every young life rescued from drug abuse is a victory greater than any medal,” he said.
He said he remains committed to using his role as a sports ambassador to inspire communities and promote discipline, service and national pride.
The double success also saw Mashaya become the first Zimbabwean martial artist and the first member of the Uniformed Forces to win both the People’s Choice Award and the Coach of the Year Silver Award at the same ANSA ceremony.
