Zim Influencers Magazine 9th Edition by Zim Influencers Magazine

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I Don’t Know What You Were Told But Sometimes It’s Okay To Withdraw From The World To Heal And Work On Yourself Just Don’t Forget To Make The Comeback Stronger.

CONTENTS 04 Editor’s Note 06 Cover Story By Natalie Mhandu 10 Get To Know Rose Mambo 12

FashionNow

Current on Ammara Brown

Exclusive With Pastor Linda

Know Your Makeup Brushes

Meet Anna Honde

Takue Mupa is on The Rise

Exclusive: Feli Nandi

Young & Bold Ngoni Danzwa

Exclusive With Legend MaSkiri

ArtNow Poem Drop

Comedian On The Rise

Editor’s Desk

t is with great joy that I as the leading member of this Edition announce another release of the Zim Influencers Magazine. I’m fascinated by people who continuously work on themselves dispite the obvious difficulties in their journey and a sounding, ‘Thank You’ to all those that believe in us!!!!

C H R I S T I N E

N H A M O

Since its inception Zim Influencers Magazine has played an exquisite role in educating, informing, supporting, empowering and entertaining its targeted audience. It has surpassed any human expectation in its growth and is quick to broaden its horizons. The fast-growing magazine has left no stone unturned in its quest to fulfill the interest of people from all works of life in terms of fashion, motivation, business, music, art, to mention but a few. The Magazine also features unique sections which gives a platform to many Zimbabwean influencers to retell their stories, entirely exposing the backbone of their success in order to inspire others. The Magazine has also been successful in creating a conducive platform for people from all age groups which has it receiving overwhelming response from the public, (which is entirely good for advertising with us).

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’ve seen the worst and I’ve survived the worst but my strength is in making sure that doesn’t define me. I understand I’m not meant for everyone I’m an acquired taste, but I put extreme effort in everything I do

Exclusive give us an insight on how you started your business and the growth so far? My entrepreneurship journey has been both depressing and exciting! But I want to acknowledge the help I got from other people to get to where I am right now. I started off selling from the back of a taxi and using my WhatsApp status to market my merchandise, I failed dismally twice; but I must say when I put my mind to something I go hard so I equipped myself with knowledge on financial intelligence and marketing etiquette. Most retailers overlook these things and face greater problems in the long run. Success comes with ridicule so half the time I have to put up with critics throwing stones at me but I remind myself that if the Confederation of retailers in Zimbabwe noticed my hard work, then I’m doing great.

ood day Natalie. You are a young lady who wears so many hats, beyond any doubt you have an amazing personality and you are a true definition of excellency and distinction, what’s your secret? Hey Christine, thank you for the compliment! I’d like to think of myself as a person who dreams in color so by virtue of that I apply wisdom to

everything I do because my goal is soar higher than the sky. I understand I’m not meant for everyone I’m an acquired taste, but I put extreme effort in everything I do, be it in my work, my social life or parenting. I operate in the extremes so there’s no in-between it’s either I’m doing it or I’m not and that has helped me in a lot of things!

atalie you’re an award-winning entrepreneur and a business woman something most people seem to forget, can you

had a privilege of digging into your history of who Natalie really was far from the fame, in your own words, which things in your past can you point at in molding you into the Natalie you are today? I’m from very humble beginnings, I had to grow up way too fast as the first child to fend for my siblings as our mother got ill when I was about 15/16. My siblings have been my children since then so I naturally developed leadership and parenting skills at a very young age. 6

’ve seen the worst and I’ve survived the worst but my strength is in making sure that doesn’t define me, but by virtue of all that I’m a very strict person in business, and as parent. I’ve endured greater pain as a young mother I lost a child at the age of 22 so naturally I guard my own jealously because the trauma that comes with loss is deeper than the eye can see. My strength is in my ability to soldier on with lessons and till this day I handle conflict very well because of that. I don’t believe in confrontation I believe in my sanity so I naturally repel negative energy and I pick my lessons and move on. I’m big on self-introspection because I’m an overthinker so in the heat of conflict I’ll be handpicking my faults and thinking of ways to be better hence I maintain silence always. My past pain taught me to never bleed on those who didn’t cut me but to rather band aid my wounds and let the scars remind me to be better as I proceed. I prioritize my mental health darling! For the past few years, I’ve been a depression patient and this year has been the peak of it all! I’m naturally misunderstood and I’m ok with that; so, taking time off socials was a much-needed personal sabbatical leave on life in general, I’ve had to regroup and restructure every aspect of my life because the disappointment I endured was a bit too deep for any normal person to endure. Rumors are fueled by hate and I have no control over what people say but I have control over how I respond which is why silence is my response! I’m a firm believer of karma so I like waiting for the universe to bring everything to light so til then I smile and wave. Remember the saying”… if fish were to be judged by their ability to climb trees they’d spend the rest of their lives feeling stupid.”

I don’t dwell on what I can’t control,

atalie, you have been very quiet lately, your media presence was scarce and most people were wondering where you had gone. This gave room for people to believe any and all the rumors that came up about you. What’s going on? I’ve been so busy setting up structures for my expansion I’ve even lost track of time! The past few months have been hectic as I’ve been traveling up and down organizing a lot of behind the scenes set up. I’m venturing into new business ventures that require 200% focus because we are at a disadvantage due to COVID-19 restrictions and by virtue of being a young female entrepreneur extra effort is required to set up. I deactivated my socials way before the noise because I had very important things that required my undivided attention; however as for the rumors oh well, rumors are fueled by hate and malicious intent so I really have no control over what the next person has to say about me. Those who know me know the truth and those who believe these rumors have always been in pursuit of some negativity where my name is concerned. I’m not meant for everyone and that’s ok so I don’t dwell on hearsay or toxic energy I focus on what pays me hence I don’t respond! Brawls don’t pay bills at all, hard work does.

s a public figure, how do you draw a boundary between popularity and your personal life? Do you have secrecy and how come you don’t always respond to the backlashes that gets thrown at you on social media? There’s a difference between Enchantress and Mai Chloe! On social media my job is to entertain and advertise and it ends there! My personal life is exactly that, personal! I protect my relationships and day to day life from the public because I’m raising a girl child with the intention

of making sure she lives a very normal happy childhood. My followers know what I show them only and it ends there, hence there’s always assumptions around my name. I respect my privacy so much that I protect my personal space and I guard it jealously! Like I said earlier, silence is never misquoted! I simply don’t join every circus because I don’t believe I can ever be a monkey! I’m responsible for my peace and sanity so I focus on that the rest is noise

ost Public figure suffer from mental health issues and are unable to come out to the public about it, because they are always under unnecessary scrutiny and often misunderstood. How do you cope with this? Our African culture stigmatizes mental health issues so much that a lot of young adults are suffering in silence. I’ve had the privilege of getting professional help and I’ve been able to overcome my issues and I can safely say that ship has sailed for me. There’s no coping mechanism for mental health issues I advise my peers to seek professional help and find safe ways to maneuver through their problems. Depression is real, it’s up to us to use our platforms to promote mental health care to our peers to limit suicide rates and to safeguard each other.

atalie you turned 30, which things could you have done differently leading to this point in time? 30 is a milestone! However, I have no regrets as I believe everything, I’ve done good or bad has contributed immensely into making me the woman I am today. I’ve made some very bad decisions but the lessons I learnt from that are more valuable than crying over the initial mistake. The only thing I plan on doing differently going forth is making friends, clearly, I can’t please everyone I’m not a pizza .

Nurture Your Passion In Every Way You Can And Keep Pushing

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ROSE MAMBO

In The Story Of ROSE MAMBO

Rose Mambo is a Fashionista and a talented gospel artiste who defied all the boundaries and allowed her intelligence to take her further. She is currently doing her PhD in Peace, Leadership and Governance.Rose’s musical career began in 2003 and its still going. Expect more in the near future.

Exclusive G

ood day Rose, beyond any doubt you have an amazing personality and you are a true definition of excellency and distinction, what’s your secret?

Good day and thank you for the opportunity to get a feature in your magazine. I have always have had a dream of being an artiste and a leader and have not lost sight of wanting to do things differently. I am one person who is not afraid to venture into the unknown and try out new things. The attribute of distinction comes when you think deeply on what you want to achieve, how you want to impact meaningful on others and always being conscious of the fact that in whatever you do, you want to leave a meaningful legacy. In a bid to achieve that, I have and still continue to try and invest in a meaningful brand in terms of time, innovation, research and resources. It’s never easy but since I made that decision, I made sure I invested into it and gave it all it deserved. The same goes with excellence, it also requires nurturing the things you are passionate about through everything you have, looking out for sources of inspiration and trying to emulate them in a way that distinguishes you from them, so that at the end of the day you still remain you, without losing yourself in the process.

ose you’re an award-winning artist and a role model to many young people, what advice would you give to people that follows your footsteps?

Am so humbled for having been recognized and nominated for the Star FM best House/ Amapiano song alongside amazing artistes like Shasha and Nox. Though I didn’t win the award, the nomination itself was enough. It made me realize that my work was being noticed and appreciated. The song Lujulile still remains the biggest song I have done so far. There is however still more to come. Persistence and hard work do pay. I got into the music industry in 2003, only to get my breakthrough in 2020. I urge all the young people out there not to give up on their dreams, nurture their passions in whatever ways they can and to keep pushing.

f you had the chance to turn the hands of time, what advice would you give to your 20-year-old self?

I would get serious with my musical calling early enough. Since I was yound, music was my passion. If I had seriously followed that dream at a tender age, I could right now be speaking of many albums in the bag, many collaborations and probably a more vibrant brand. 10

ose most people know the beautiful, well-dressed, TVready you,) can you tell us one thing that you do and people can never guess? I have made a conscious decision to have a brand which is not only shaped by me being a musician but also through the way I present myself to my fans or audience. I believe one’s appearance does play an important role as it affects how people perceive you. Being presentable helps in making people take you seriously and have the interest to want to know more about you do and what you have to offer. Being tv ready like you say (ha ha) is not easy. It’s something that has to be part of the daily routine and life style. It starts from things that we often overlook like eating healthy, drinking lots of water and exercise. Am a gym enthusiast by the way. I try to train about 5 times a week. Am not yet there in terms of achieving the goals I want but I can confidently say that I have been very consistent. I also endeavored to invest in quality photography, make up, hair to achieve the looks suitable for the brand am trying to be associated with. Shout out to Vivianne’s closet for making me their brand ambassador abs dressing me well most of the time.

ongratulations on such an outstanding progress in your career, what should we expect in the near future? Recording new music and creating visuals has been extremely difficult this year owing to the Covid 19 pandemic which also came with various forms of restrictions. I however managed to record three

songs this year which am still yet to release. My last release was Ezintabeni sometime in March this year. Am set to release Winner which is a collaboration between myself and Tembalami. The song talks about victory, being victorious despite the circumstances surrounding us. It’s was an amazing experience working with Tembalami! The song has awesome visuals too and the video will be released soon.

ow do you balance popularity and personal life? Is it easy to draw the boundaries? I am one person who has hands that are so full! Am doing so many things at the same time. I am a wife, mother, full time employee, PhD student and a musician. I also have a social life where gym is not to be missed! Am a gym enthusiast. Creating a balance has however not been easy I must admit. To however accommodate all the roles and responsibilities, there is need to priority certain aspects at any given point in time. Some of the tasks that come up might not be really full time but it’s those say maybe like a video project. There is therefore need for proper planning to ensure that, that particular project is given all the attention and resources it requires for it to be disposed smoothly. During that time, that becomes an important priority which is given its all and disposed off as per expectation. To create the balance needed, there is need to work with a team which assists with certain responsibilities. I already have a wonderful digital management who are responsible for monitoring the social media handles and making suggestions were necessary. I have an awesome makeup, styling and photography

team. They have been awesome in pushing the brand !!!

ose you’re so beautiful and a real-time Fashionista, should we expect a boutique soon for some of us who wants to copy your fashion taste? By faith I just labeled myself as a fashionista but am not yet there. I aspire to be one. There are so many things am still supposed to learn about fashion. We learn everyday through research and slowly emulating those who are ahead of us. Fashion also changes with time as new designs get to evolve hence the need to research so as to keep abreast with that happens in the clothing industry. Had not really thought of owning a clothing line but if it does happen, am sure I will be quick to embrace that side of me and nurture it accordingly.

ife isn’t rosses every time, where do you derive your motivation when you begin to feel like quitting? Yes, there are moments when I have felt demotivated and uninspired but have never really thought of quitting. I have always reminded myself that I have a purpose or mission in life that I have to fulfill and me alone can do that. No one can do that on my behalf. That thought alone reenergizes me to go back to the drawing board to see what can be started afresh or done differently. I also have a dream of wanting to leave behind a legacy which my children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and society might still want to emulate even after am gone. That alone motivates me not to quit !!!

fashionNow

StreetWear

Look Good, Feel Good “You can have anything you want in life if you dress for it.”

Edith Head

The Current On: Have you Watched Ammara Brown’s episodes on her Hai’s Journed? Dont miss out!!!! AMMARA BROWN

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o not allow the pressures of the moment to deter you from pursuing your dreams.

Pastor Justice Linda

Exclusive Pastor. Justice Linda G

ood day Mr. Justice Linda, what’s your secret to this amazing personality and a clear transparent example of excellency and distinction? Good day to you Christine, I will consider that as a compliment but trust me I have my own struggles that I pray that God may help me with and I am believing that as I grow, I keep changing for the better. However , I believe that staying with God is the best secret that anyone and everyone needs. You cannot change the world ,unless you are willing to be changed, and God is an expert in that .

s a role model to many young people out there, how do you manage to keep up with those mentored under you? Once again thank you, honestly being a role model to someone places an enormous amount of pressure on you. In actual fact, mentoring at its best, is and should be by example more than word of mouth. Hence to keep up with those who see me as their mentor, I have to keep moving ,even in the most difficult of circumstances, so that from observing how I stand and I have stood during difficult times of life, they too can learn how to stand.

eing a Pastor and a father to many people, how do you manage everything without making the world interfere with your personal life? Do you have any family times, when you just become a normal dad

to your kids? Balance is key ,Christine ! It is possible to find balance between performance and normalcy . It requires prioritizing and diarizing. One of the greatest heartbreaks ,is to find out that as you are building and performing at a high level ,your family is falling apart. It is not truly success when you are celebrated away and not share the success at home. Balance is key! As much as I am a man of God, I am a father and husband as well.

ife isn’t rosses every time, where do you derive your motivation when you begin to feel like quitting? Do you ever feel low faith wise or you’re always at your best? It is true life isn’t always a bed of roses, there are difficult times in life. In actual fact the greater the assignment, the more the challenges you have to deal with. I have had my own moments where quitting was the only option left because things weren’t working. However I have derived life and strength in God. He has given me strength during difficult times .Also I think , keeping in view , the things that matter has been of great help to me. You can not allow the challenges of the day to rob you of the joy of the future. The hope of a better and greater future has kept me going.

ing it again consistently? Definitely I am actually planning on continuing with them and even grow them.

astor, were you always active in Christ or there was a time you didn’t know Christ and how old were you when you became a pastor? Thank you for the question. I was 15 when I discovered that God was calling me, I was in High School then, and apparently at 18 , I got the opportunity to serve as a pastor, even though I was not trained then, finally I went to bible school at 23 and that is when the journey began.

f you had the chance to turn the hands of time, what advise would you give to your 20-year-old self? Obviously when I look back at the younger me ,there a lot of things that I would change. The first thing that I would say to that young man is do not allow the pressures of the moment to deter you from pursuing your dreams. Secondly I would tell that young man to that never to look down on himself but to believe in who he is , what he is ,what he can do and ultimately in the One who created and called Him to serve. The other thing I would say is; In pursuit of your vision ,find as many people who inspire you as you can and follow their example. The last thing I would tell my 20 year old self is that ou boosted a lot of people’s lives life is not only about getting but givthrough your soul touching Live ing not only what you have but yourBroadcasts, are you planning on do- self as well. 15

Becoming The Best You

n becoming what God intends for you life there are many laws and things that come into play. One of the most critical laws is the law of relationships. What this means is that ,you need other people for you to become what you intend to be. God sends people for a number of reasons, however the coming of people into your life is the bedrock on which most betrayals are built on. You should never underestimate what people can do. They can either build you up or bring you down. However and whatever the case maybe , you will still need people around you. I want you to consider this: Each time you open a door for someone to come into your space, you heighten the chances of betrayal. In other words, betrayal does not exist until access is given. The foundation of all betrayals is access and unfulfilled expectation, the kind of access that is born out of the need to belong and to be part of a people or someone’s life. That is why betrayal by a friend is more hurtful than betrayal by stranger. In fact, it hurts more to be betrayed by a loved one that someone you barely know. The point is you must expect anything from people. As you grow, the need for people around you increases, it is however regrettable to let you know that, in many cases you will be at the mercy of those around you. In interacting with many great people, I have noticed how narrow the door into their space is. The reason being that they have seen more betrayals on their way up. As careful as they try to be , they have never truly been able to immunize themselves against betrayal. In actual fact there is no amount of vaccination that will preserve you against betrayal, you can only manage and minimize it. God himself was betrayed, David the great king was betrayed, Jesus was betrayed and you are not an exception. Jesus said, in Luke 17 v 1 ‘…. He said to his disciples, “Offenses will certainly come, but woe to the one through whom they come!’

In order to handle betrayal well ,you must have a large heart. The kind of heart that expects anything and is prepared to accept anything from people. A number of years I confided in someone in my most vulnerable moments of life, apparently the person took my words verbatim and spread them around. I was stunned, I was gutted, but I had to move on, I had to recover and move on. From this experience I realized that the person who does not trust at all will suffer the same fate as the person who trusts the wrong person. However , even after betrayal, you still to need to trust again, you still need to love again. One of the most dangerous things a person can do, when betrayed is to change who they are to suit the negativities that have been thrown at them. Remember the need to perform will always be placed on your shoulders, whether you are hurting or bleeding, you still have to be productive and still perform. The point is even if you are hurting from the betrayal you still have to be a mother, to your child. You still have to be a father, you still have to be the CEO, whether hurting or not. As much as you are human and emotional , you can not afford to be an emotional wreck, otherwise you will find yourself in the junkyard of life. Failure to forgive betrayal leads to bitterness. Bitterness is a dangerous state of the heart that results from unforgiveness. When bitterness takes over your heart, it affects the way you see. It affects the way you think, it affects your mental processes and thinking patterns, it affects your judgement. In other words it alters you completely. It also affects the way you act, respond and react. Over the past few years, I have noticed significant changes in people. I have seen the hurt, the anger, the aggressiveness that people harbor on the inside of them. Most of those actions are a result of underlying fears ,that have been triggered by bitterness. In all cases, bitterness will eventually destroy the bearer. The best way to deal with bitterness is to

PASTOR JUSTICE LINDA be willing to forgive and let go. Forgiving is not a sign of weakness but a sign of strength. It is only the mature who make the decision to forgive and let go. In all cases the one who choose to forgive and find terms of peace becomes the better one. In other words, vengeful people become weaker and weaker and eventually banish themselves to oblivion, irrelevance and destruction. The most liberating decision you will ever make is to forgive. The pain of the hurt may remain with you but that does not mean you haven’t forgiven. For example you may have a wound, when the wound is healed, you may remain with a scar. Such is the case with forgiveness, the emotional wound may remain even after you have forgiven. This is mainly because forgiveness is not an emotion but a decision and a choice. As I conclude ,I want you to understand that no one in his won ability possesses the power to forgive. You can try as much as you can but all will be in vain , until you enlist the help of the Lord. You may probably be dealing with issues that have caused you bitterness, I encourage you to enlist the help of God, because you can not do it alone. You can not afford to abort your God- given destiny at the altar of unforgiveness, you have a higher cause to live for.

BeautyNow

Exclusive A nna as an influencer and obviously on a spotlight, how do you manage to keep up with the society’s expectations? Being on the spotlight is something that is very difficult. From being that normal girl who used to do anything anywhere and anytime (partying ha-ha) now it’s different because people know me and I can’t go anywhere without being identified. I’m held accountable for all my actions.

ome people might not know but, Anna how did you rise to fame? What was the spark? How I rose to fame, well I was in China in 2018 working as a dancer. There was a time I was lonely; I Bought a new phone and began recording myself. I was sharing these videos on my personal Facebook profile and people Began to like and share my content. From there, I was approached by many people and my clips were played on big platforms, the fame grew. That’s how I started. When I came back to Zim I was just home and when I went on Internet to my surprise everyone was asking where I had gone. That was a push, and people sent me money for airtime to afford Bundles of Facebook so that I can post. People made me, and I’m sure if I hadn’t gotten people’s support I wouldn’t get this far.

hat can you boldly say are the advantages of having a large following on social media? Well , growing up I didn’t have a lot of friends. I was body shamed a lot and I excused myself from

friends. Now I have a lot of people greeting me and happy when they see me. I also get paid for this fame. When I show up people love me. The advantage is you get to meet easily with big brands. Its putting food on my table and I’m learning a lot

some I witnessed others going through them. The intention is definitely to teach others.

s an influencer, do you ever feel like you’re misunderstood? Is it easy for you to make friends since a lot of people wants to be associated with you? The people who believe in my art ou’re a young and beautiful and love me I actually love them lady, does being on the spot- back. It doesn’t matter the scanlight affect your personal life in dals; the real ones always have any way in terms of secrecy? my back. Wow about that, you know ife isn’t rosses every time, sometimes I drop tears. You where do you derive your know, when you’re on the spotlight, most of the guys want to motivation when you begin to have you. The traffic is too much. feel like quitting? People want to take advantage of I actually felt like quitting many you. Some flash a lot of money times. Sometimes people who I and just trying to get to you (not asked to record me were ignorant for good reasons). Thank God and refused. People could not and my family and my parents spare just 5 minutes of their time I’m not easily lured by money. to record me. People would discourage me saying I would never hat’s one thing that peo- get to Madam Boss or Mai TT, ple can never guess about that used to discourage me a lot. I you? just want to be Anna Honde you Well, when I was in grade 5, I know. I would cry to my mom got burnt that I couldn’t walk. It and she would pray for me most was official that I was never go- times. ing to walk straight but then I recovered, thank God. Now I can’t his brings us to this question, walk in heals, I can only wear what’s your advice to aspirplatforms. I can’t walk in some ing influencers that wants to beheals I guess that what people come like you? Do what you love and things don’t know. will happen effortlessly. Don’t be ost of your skits tend to ed- pressured by people. Also don’t ucate and offer awareness focus on the money when starton some social issues, do you do ing, money comes eventually. Be that intentionally or it just hap- patient, use your phone if you pens? don’t have other resources, we Its very intentional, most of all start from somewhere. All the the things I act its because they best!!! are prominent issues and some 21 things, I went through them and

uccess and Failure are tailored by this one thing:- ATTITUDE, and what makes all the difference is SELF AWARENESS and AUTHENTIC CONFIDENCE .

akue as an influencer and obviously on a spotlight, how do you manage to keep up with the society’s expectations? Being a relentless lifelong student, I have in the past years grown to appreciate that the need for self-development cannot be over emphasized, given that we live in an ever dynamic and versatile world. Diligence, Hard work, Collaboration and Sustainable relationships form the backbone of the woman I am today. I strongly believe that there is no substitute for excellence in life if I am to make any impact for prosperity. Along with success, comes the imminent social expectations which are either constructive or destructive depending on one’s response. I have learnt to appreciate, focus and capitalize on my strengths, while accepting my weaknesses and the things that I can’t change.

hat can you boldly say are the advantages of having a large following on social media? Being an influencer undoubtedly attracts a wide spectrum of followership on the digital platforms, and the upside to that is that it compels me to lead an exemplary lifestyle. It offers me the opportunity to positively influence and impact people out there that I may never have the chance to meet. On the other hand, being a public figure compromises your private life as there is virtually no room left with everyone keen being versed with every detail of your life. Privacy is a haven that is intentionally created.

Get To Know Takue Mupa

ood day Takue, you’re a great rising influencer, most people would like to know you better. Kindly tell us who Talue Mupa is... I am Takudzwa Mavis Muparadzi, a Professional Child Carer by Academic merits, and a Brand ambassador. I am a true and accurate ethnic representation of my African bearing, appreciating where I have transitioned from, accepting where I am and optimistic of where I am going. I am a true and astute believer of effective and impactful living through making the difference in people’s life irrespective of Class or creed as this stands as one of the core pillars of human existence.

s an influencer, do you ever feel like you’re misunderstood? Is it easy for you to make friends since a lot of people wants to be associated with you? Consequently, one’s way of life may be misunderstood and mistaken for unpleasantries like pride, malice, pomposity etc, and in turn is repulsive. Loving people, and humility are some of my valuable attributes because I don’t belittle or think less of my fellow brother or sister. We are all equals in life with only different assignments.

ou love your grandmothers so much, what are the 2 things that you have learned from them and will cherish forever? Family is key to any functional society, as we are taught, groomed and molded to be the best of who we can be and that can be attested to be true in my life. Technically having been raised by my grandmother, she has instilled in me the importance of valuing and loving people, because we exist and succeed because of one another. I am a product of someone who saw value in me and decided to give me a chance.

his brings us to this question, what’s your advice to aspiring influencers that wants to become like you? My greatest advice to any aspiring influencer is “ The ceiling of your potential-expressed, is determined by the picture you see every day and the self-belief you entertain in your heart. No summit of success is too high to scale, and never allow your background to put your back on the ground “ I am a product of God’s love, and a workmanship of mentors

M E E T

F E L I

N A N D I

The Queen The VOICE The Beauty

ou can never guess who is rocking the music streets, Feli Nandi has all ropes tied to gi higher. This queen has made

huge strodes in the Zimbabwean music industry and by the look of things, she is not stopping anytime soon. Sis is growing!!! Background to FeliNandi”s growth: Feli Nandi real name Felistus Chipendo is a Zimbabwean musician and fashion designer. Feli Nandi is married and was born in June 1992. In a 2020 interview with NewsDay, Feli Nandi said she has two sons. She started as a backing vocalist for Mbeu’s Mhodzi Tribe for two years. After parting ways with Mbeu, she released Mufudzi WeMombe with Trevor Dongo. She also released her self titled debut album Feli Nandi in 2021. Lately Feli Nandi has been getting a lot of support from various local celebrities and we hope the flag goes higher and higher. As the Zim Influencers Magazine we are overly excited when we see women taking spaces in higher places so we boldly say, THUMBS UP Feli Nandi!!!! 25

Exclusive G

ood day Feli Nandi, you’re so exemplary and taking strides into excellence, you’re talented and amazing. What’s your secret? I don’t have any secret, I’m simply a blessed girl. I think another thing is I challenge myself; I love to work hard and always giving a 100. I appreciation all the love and support I have gotten so far in my journey.

eli Nandi, you’re not just an artist, you’re a role model to many young people out there, what advice would you give to people that follows your footsteps? My advice is: just take the first step. Don’t look back, focus, believe in yourself and always, always pray, the right eye will see you and the right ear will hear about you.

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eli you’re amazing, your career hasn’t been all roses, It’s more of a mountain climb. Can you give us a quick insight on how you became this Phenomenal Feli Nandi people know today? I don’t know if phenomenal is the right word, but I’m just a girl who gives my all, and still thriving to achieve the dream

ongratulations on such an outstanding progress in your career, Cheers Queen!!!! What should we expect in the near future? More is coming, we’re not stopping, I want to touch lives, I want to make people cry, I want to make people laugh, we’re definitely going to leave a mark.

f you had the chance to turn the hands of time, what advice would you give to your 20-year-old self? Don’t fall in love young ha-ha-ha-ha, don’t give yourself pressure. When the timing is right, things happen.

eli if you don’t mind, most of us we really don’t know much about you as a person. Who is Feli

Nandi out of the studio and off the cameras? Feli is a mother of two boys, who loves to cook and spending time at home cleaning, and loves her boys so much. When I’m not in the studio I’m on my machine making clothes, that’s me…

eing a female beautiful artist can come with some difficulties, what’s your view on this and do you experience some downsides in the industry for the lack of masculinity? A lot of artists are taken advantage of, it’s something we can’t hide. I myself has experienced it but I’ve got the right team by my side. it’ll be life changing if we could change the things a lot of artists are going through. 26

I Have Total Confidence In Myself And I Have Great Passion In Everything That I Do. N

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Exclusive G ood day Mr. Ngoni Danzwa, I would refer to you as a real Comrade, beyond any doubt are a true definition of excellency and distinction, what’s your secret? Thank you very much, I must say that I am deeply humbled that you regard me as a definition of excellency and distinction. Well, the secret behind my personality is passion, I have great passion in everything that I do. Everything that I do, I do it with all my heart and energy. As well as confidence, I have total confidence in myself. I must also give credit to my parents for the person that I am today, they raised me well, they taught me great values in life.

r. Danzwa, you have left no stone unturned when it comes to advocating for political rights and this has put you under a lot of scrutiny from other members of political parties in Zimbabwe. How does this sit with you and how far does it temper with your safety as an individual? This does not shake my resolve or dampen my spirit in the fight for change because I know that I am standing for what is right, I know that my cause is just and noble. I know that I am on the right side of history. Well indeed my security is at risk, because everyday I live with the prospect of getting arrested or abducted, the political environment in Zimbabwe is very dangerous and hostile towards opposition activists like me, our rights are not respected. We are send to prison when we have not committed any crime. We are treated like slaves in our own country. My safety is not guaranteed. Not just my safety only, but also the safe-

ty of other Zimbabweans is not guaranteed, even those who are not into politics they live with the same risk, you can recall on 1st August 2018 we have Zimbabweans who were killed by the army in the streets of Harare, some of those people were not even part of the demonstrators that demonstrated on that day, the main problem is that we have security forces that do not respect the lives of the citizens. So yes, everyone is not safe in Zimbabwe.

according to some surveys its simply because most people are scared of being the enemies of the state (inturn it disadvantages them on getting some national benefits) what’s your take on this? Yes indeed most youths are scared of getting involved in politics in Zimbabwe because of the risks, it is understandable. But I believe that for change to happen in Zimbabwe, the youths must take the risks and challenge the system. It is a matter of sacrifice, that not getting the so called o you think that Zimbabwe will “national benefits” is the sacrifice we ever be better socially or eco- must make. No change comes withnomically? In your own words how out sacrifices. No change comes on a do you define a better Zimbabwe? silver platter. Yes, Zimbabwe will be better soon, and to make Zimbabwe a better country, we must elect leaders who ife isn’t rosses every time, where have the aspirations and the needs do you derive your motivation of the people at heart. In that regard, when you begin to feel like quitting? let me take this opportunity to en- When I feel like quitting I remind courage Zimbabweans to go out and myself why I started in the first place, register to vote and vote the MDC I re-imagine the Zimbabwe that I Alliance party led by President Nel- want, then I will have no choice but son Chamisa in 2023. In my words to continue with what I am doing. I a better Zimbabwe is a Zimbabwe also get motivation from the day to where there is a good healthcare day struggles that I go through in system, employment for the people, Zimbabwe, how its hard to get a job. security for the citizens, stronger in- How my rights are not respected, stitutions - an indepedent judiciary I get motivation to continue from system, a non partisan police force, things like that. a non partisan army. Free education for the citizens from primary school level up to the high school level. That ts very impressive how you have is my definition of a better Zimbasuch a huge political following bwe, and the MDC Alliance govern- and how you openly speak your ment led by Nelson Chamisa will mind out, where do you see yourself make that a reality for the people a in future? Zimbabwe. Hahaha. I won’t answer much on that because I don’t have clear political ambitions as of now, but I see myself as a great national leader in r. Danzwa, a lot of people the future. We will go where God (Youth) are scared to openly wants us to go, we will serve where get into politics or talk about it, and God wants us to serve. 29

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I’ve always felt if no one else is going to stand up and say something, then I am it. You can’t wait for someone else to say it or take pictures of the person with breast cancer. You are it.

Breast Cancer Awareness E R I C k A

H A R T

eing humble is the biggest ego trip.

M A S K I R I

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Exclusive G ood day Maskiri, you are a born Legend, beyond any doubt you have an amazing talent and you are a true definition of excellency and distinction, what’s your secret? Thank you. being humble is the biggest ego trip.

askiri you’re an award-winning artist and a role model to many young people, what advice would you give to people that follows your footsteps? I advise them to stay away from drugs and most importantly to not to give up in whatever they are doing. That’s the trick!!!

askiri how old were you when you launched your music career and in your own words how has the journey been so far? I was sixteen back then at the time when record companies felt that there was no market for hip hop. There were no studios and it was 100% international content during the time.

ongratulations on such an outstanding progress in your career and your last tour yeeey, what should we expect in the near future? I’m now working on Mhondoro record label that represents the music of artists. This can be to con-

duct business, such as distribution Beefing is part of the game if its as well as find them opportunities strictly business so we move!! and invest money in them. f you had the chance to turn the hands of time, what advice s a public figure, how do you draw a boundary between would you give to your 20-yearpopularity and your personal life? old self? My 20 year old I wish I could write Do you have secrecy? I always decide what I need peo- my plans down ,read better books, ple to know, I keep my personal solve harder problems and invest life private. it’s better to share and in friendships. connect with a few people who askiri among the upcoming truly care than do the same with artists, who would you exan audience that doesn’t truly care. tend your thumps up to? he music Industry has a lot of Nutty O and Blackarose beefs and unnecessary competition; how do you channel that energy?

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Art / Now

I Don’t Want To Be Like YOU. I don’t want to be like you. I can be like everybody else, but you. You’re not the worst person ever created, But I swear, I don’t adore you even in your deepest sleep. You live to please people, Giving smiles on your deepest expense. You care for people who care less about you. You spend half of your life chasing people Who run away from you, and I hate you for that. I hate you for abandoning your own skin. I hate you for allowing everyone to the inner core of your heart I hate you for accepting hurt, pain and rejection every day. I hate seeing you cry yourself to sleep, and not speaking your mind. I don’t want to be like you. You ignored Self- confidence when he called you. You gave a cold shoulder to Self-love when she visited. You always play second fiddle to your heart and it hurts my feelings. I wish you knew how special you are. I wish you could believe more in that person in your mirror, Before you commit your beliefs to anyone else. I wish you could realise how great you can be, Maybe then, I will want to be like you... A Handful of Tears By: Christine Nhamo

The Secret Is Hardwork, Dedication And Sleepless Nights. MR. LAP TV

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Exclusive

ood day Mr Lap, you’re growing so fast and you have an amazing personality and you are a true definition of excellency and humor, what’s your secret? It is not an easy path to produce an amazing and interesting personality but the secret is hard work and dedication. I am also one of the people who believe that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, I believe in myself before anyone else and I don’t give up so easily. Sleepless nights in my career is my greatest secret.

have been seeing you so much allover social media? When did you decide to become an actor and what was the inspiration behind such a decision? I started publishing my skits in the year 2018 on all social media platforms but I when it comes to acting, I started when I was still in school. I was very funny at school and I used to attract and motivate everyone through my jokes. My parents started noticing some symptoms of a joke cracker when I was at a tender age through some very funny statements.

For those who want to advertise with me, Mr Lap tv is open for business Our followers on social media are increasing everyday and we value their views and comments, whether positive or negative we accept their compliments.

crease and the promoters should not take advantage of young artists. The business community should also chip in, promote and also the government of Zimbabwe must consider the Art industry very seriously.

often wonder how you’re so camera ready and able to speak without fear, does acting come natural to you or you had to teach yourself all the way? Acting is my daily bread and its now flowing within my blood it comes natural.

eople watch you every day, there are people who aspire to be like you. What’s your advice to upcoming actors and actresses? My advice to upcoming actors is that you don’t have to lose hope in everything you do, also learn to work hard and dedicate yourself to your art always. Remember there is s a public figure we know quite light at the end of a tunnel. Nothing less of your private life, can you comes easily, nothing for MAHALA kindly give us an insight in who Mr. you need to work hard for it. Lap is off the camera? Mr Lap is an actor content creator/ video editor. My real name Is Trust Shepherd Nezomba and I was born in Mutare, grew up in Mutare from a ghetto location but I am also a village boy from Chigodora. I m a computer technician by profession {Africa University} I am an entrepreneur in laptop business where I derived the name “Mr lap tv”.

r. Lap, do you think there is enough support given to upcoming artists from our Zimbabweor those that wants to advertise an community? with you, are you available for The support is still inadequate to business promotion skits and how upcoming artists in the Zimbabwefar have you gone with views and an community. The promotions the number of followers? given to upcoming artists must in-

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Zim Influencers Magazine 9th Edition

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