Arts4Change meets young people where they are through creative forms of engagement . Established in 2020, the youth-led, youth-focused programme uses music, film, satire and comedy to trigger dialogue and inspire youth-led participation in grassroots movements and advocacy around critical governance issues.
Every year, the programme mentors aspiring musicians and filmmakers who produce films and songs which are showcased at Festivals and community engagement events.
Arts 4 Change It is a component of the New Narratives for Accountability in Zimbabwe (NNAZ) Project, a joint initiative of Accountability Lab Zimbabwe and Magamba Network. Since it’s inception in 2020, the programme has mentored over 70 aspiring artists and filmmakers resulting in the production of over 25 films and 3 albums with the 4th currently in production.
Through the Film Fellowship, 10 film fellows selected each year receive training and mentorship by established filmmakers which culminates in the fellows producing individual films around social issues specific to their communities. Their work is showcased in different communities through at least 10 annual screenings across the country as well as at the annual Bokola film festival towards the end of the year. The Film Fellowship can boast of its success reflected by the following alumni:
FILM FELLOWSHIP Alumni
Mary Mandeya (Class of 2022)
She was recognised by the national Journalism Awards as Internews Young Journalist of the year in 2022 as well as honoured by the Economic Justice for Women Project and commissioned to do a documentary on gender in Zimbabwe
Sikhanyisiwe Sebata (Class of 2020)
Her film “Her: a disintegrated notion” was accepted into the African Film Festival New Zealand, nominated for a Bulawayo Arts Award, and considered for the Special Film Prize on “Sexual And Reproductive Health and Rights” under the Health For All Film Festival which is organised by the World Health Organisation.
Jabulani Mudzova (Class of 2023)
His film ‘A Few More Dollars’ which depicts the daily struggles for a young man in trying to stay afloat in the uncertain economic conditions in Zimbabwe was nominated for a NAMA award
Other film fellows have been commissioned to lead the production of Integrity Icon documentaries.
Voice2Rep is committed to finding, supporting and connecting socially conscious and engaged music artists who want to gain the knowledge and skills to integrate social justice and accountability issues in their music. Every year, the competition brings together 10 up and coming Zimbabwean singers for training and mentorship by established producers and musicians. The 10 get an opportunity to record an album together while they also compete. The overall winner based on public votes is awarded a prize that includes a music video recording, and an investment into their music. Some notable alumni include.
V2R Alumni
Oxzy (Class of 2021)
He received a Prince Claus Award recognising his effort towards empowering women, and people living with disability through socially conscious music and awareness programs . Following the award he has done Donation Drives, clean up campaigns and a Creative Arts Movement to uplift artists in Zimbabwe.
Marvellous Tshuma, (Class of 2020)
Following her participation in the fellowship she became a more vocal advocate for the rights of people with albinism. She channels her activism through Albinism Konnect, an initiative of the Noble Hands Trust in which she is National Chairperson.
Comfort Ndlovu, (Class of 2022)
Winner of the 2022 competition and singer of the controversial song ‘Qiniso’ was featured in the Matobo Youth Development Initiative Podcast where he speaks on how he uses music to address social issues and promote access to information.
Banshee (Class of 2023)
She is an award-winning spoken word artist, writer and content creator who has performed at COP21 in Paris France, Defend Defenders in Johannesburg South Africa and The Caravan of Hope Tour in Mozambique and Malawi.
V2R ALUMNI
Other fellows have had the opportunity to perform and some flagship events such as Integrity Icon Awards, Shoko Festival and Hustler’s Market.
rap REPORT
Rap Report is a production under the Voice2Rep program which uses rap to highlight social justice issues and reach the youth in an entertaining and innovative way. Since 2022, a number of rap reports have been produced and published covering different topics including public transport, the environment, women in technology, local currencies and health. In each episode talented rap reporters break down the big issues in the country with bars, beats and humour.