TAMIA Mwinjilo, digital marketing manager at Margolis Holdings, was more than elated to see the first edition of the STEMA Festival come to fruition.
She could not hide her excitement after watching nearly all the performances, including managing all her busy runabout.
“Absolutely. The first STEMA Festival exceeded our expectations in both scale and impact. We envisioned a vibrant convergence of creativity, culture and leisure and that’s exactly what unfolded. The energy from both performers and attendees was electric. It was a strong start to what we hope will become a marquee event in Zimbabwe’s cultural calendar.
“By maintaining quality, investing in talent and fostering meaningful partnerships, we believe STEMA can become one of southern Africa’s premier cultural events.
“Our goal is to position it not just as a festival, but as a destination experience that people travel for year after year,” she told NewsDay Life & Style.
“Performances by local artistes like Ngoma Kurira Dance Group, Josh Meck, Gemma and Albert Nyathi were phenomenal.
“Each artiste brought a different flavour from the traditional and poetic styling of Albert Nyathi to the contemporary flair of Gemma and the soulful rhythms of Josh Meck.
“Ngoma Kurira Dance Group energised the stage with a performance that blended culture with innovation. It was a celebration of Zimbabwean talent in its richest form.”
- Mwinjilo forsees brighter future for STEMA Festival
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International amapiano star Tyler ICU’s presence that evening elevated the festival to an international level.
It provided a platform for local artistes to share the stage with global acts, an invaluable experience for everyone involved.
ND: Can you elaborate on the idea behind the theme Where Arts, Adventure and Leisure Connect and how it was executed?
TM: We wanted to move beyond the traditional festival model and create a multi-dimensional experience.
By blending live music, performing arts, recreational activities and relaxation all in one, the venue gave our guests a chance to immerse themselves in a lifestyle, not just an event.
From curated art spaces to hiking trails and spa treatments, the theme was woven into every detail.
ND: How does the festival’s concept align with the offerings of the Stephen Margolis Resort?
TM: Perfectly. The Stephen Margolis Resort is built around the idea of adventure and leisure.
We offer high-end accommodation, diverse recreational activities, a vast selection of accommodation rooms and conference facilities.
STEMA Festival is an extension of that ethos as it showcases how our resort can host exceptional, experience-driven events in a natural and luxurious setting.
ND: What are your plans for future editions of STEMA Festival, and how do you intend to build on its success?
TM: We’re already planning for an even bigger and better edition.
Our vision is to make STEMA a regional powerhouse for arts and lifestyle tourism.
We’ll continue to invest in talent development, bring in more international acts and deepen community engagement.
ND: Can you highlight some of the key amenities and activities available at the Stephen Margolis Resort, such as conferencing, accommodation and recreation?
TM: The resort offers fully-equipped conference and event facilities, 52 accommodation rooms, original bushman rock paintings, balancing rocks, a museum and recreational areas including zip lining, speed boat cruise, horse riding and so much more.
For those looking for more excitement, we offer an immersive virtual reality experience, fishing and the perfect grounds for a weekend outing, birthday celebrations and picnics.
It’s ideal for corporate retreats, weddings, family holidays and festivals.
The natural landscape provides a breath-taking backdrop that adds depth and authenticity to the event.
The serene environment helps guests to disconnect from the bustle of daily life, while the open-air stages and wellness zones make the experience immersive and rejuvenating.
