ALL is set for the United States-based African Entertainment Awards in which eight Zimbabwean actors and musicians have been lined up to battle for honours on October 31.
BY ALOIS VINGA
Musicians Selmor Mtukudzi, US-based Tinashe Kachingwe, Bonnie Deuschle and Celebration Choir, actors Danai Gurira and Tongayi Chirisa, producer Brian Soko, spoken word artiste Farai Samm Monro and fashion designer Farai Simoyi have been nominated for the awards.
Afro-jazz sensation Selmor’s manager, Sandra Mtukudzi, confirmed the nomination, which she described as heart-warming.
“Selmor Mtukudzi has been nominated in the Hottest Female Musician Category which honours rising stars on the African continent. Other musicians who have also been nominated for the category are Yemi Aladi of Nigeria and Zahara of South Africa,” she said.
“The fact that we have been nominated is nothing short of remarkable as it confirms that our brand has broken the local shells to penetrate the international market. We urge Zimbabweans to collectively support us as we bid to scoop the awards.” Gurira has been nominated for best actress in the film, The Walking Dead, Chirisa for best actor in the film Crusoe, Simoyi for Best Female Fashion Designer and Monro for Best Comedian.
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The nominees are made up of a diverse group of African entertainers who exemplify talent and remarkable contributions to their craft. Other categories being awarded are Best International Female and Male Artistes and Best New Artiste of the Year.
This year’s edition will see Toronto’s Masai Ujiri being awarded the Grange Real Estate Award of Excellence while Congolese musician Awilo Longomba will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award.
The fourth edition of the awards ceremony will be hosted by Nollywood actor John Dumelo and recording artiste Emma Nyra. The red carpet event will be held under the theme, Rebranding Africa through Entertainment.