THE inaugural Midlands Community Trailblazers Awards (MCTA) is set to be more than just a ceremony — it will be a celebration of the “human gold” that fuels Zimbabwe’s heartland.
Awards host Albert Masaka has promised an unforgettable evening, hinting that a major surprise is also in store.
Slated for March 27 at King Solomon’s Hotel in Kwekwe, the gala marks a historic shift in how the nation recognises excellence by moving the spotlight from the capital to the provinces.
Organised by Perfection Media Pvt Ltd in strategic partnership with the Zim Community Trailblazers Awards (ZCTA), the event will run under the theme:
“Harvesting Excellence: Celebrating Community Champions of Midlands’ Rich Heritage.”
Masaka said the awards are more than a local celebration—they complement the Government’s decentralisation and devolution agenda.
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“This gala isn’t just a local gathering. The Midlands has been handpicked as the first of five provinces to host these regional ceremonies, a recognition of its status as the nation’s industrial and agricultural heartbeat,” he said.
He added that excitement is already building in Kwekwe as the province prepares to host the landmark event.
“The atmosphere in Kwekwe is already buzzing with anticipation. By bringing the awards to the doorsteps of the innovators themselves, we are making a powerful statement: brilliance does not only happen in Harare; it thrives in the mines of Shurugwi, the farms of Gokwe and the lecture halls of Gweru.”
The guest list reflects the significance of the event, with the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Owen Ncube confirmed as the guest of honour.
His presence signals government support for the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) and the broader devolution agenda.
Joining him on the high table will be Primary and Secondary Education minister Torerayi Moyo and Pastor Ruth Musarurwa, who will both serve as special guests.
Masaka said the Midlands is a province defined by immense wealth that goes far beyond its minerals and fertile soils.
“The true value of this region lies in its people — the industrialists, community leaders and visionaries who sustain the social and economic fabric of the country,” he said.
“By launching this inaugural event, we are finally creating a platform where the grassroots impact of local heroes can receive the national recognition it has long deserved.”
He added that the adjudication process was rigorous, focusing on selecting “Titan” recipients—individuals and institutions making outstanding contributions across sectors such as mining and metallurgy, education, sports, agriculture, and corporate social responsibility.
“Our panel identified winners who have transformed rural landscapes into thriving industrial hubs and those who bridge the gap between academic theory and practical industrial output.”
A major highlight of the evening will be the growing impact of Education 5.0 and Heritage-Based Learning, demonstrating how the province’s intellectual capital is driving innovation and provincial industrialisation.
“The story of the Midlands is one of transformation—where significant infrastructure investments are repositioning Zimbabwe on the global trade map while also providing a blueprint for sustainable rural development,” Masaka said.
The event will also provide a high-level networking platform where captains of industry, traditional leaders, academics, and civil society pioneers will engage and celebrate the achievements shaping the province.
Perfection Media has extended a warm invitation to stakeholders and residents across the Midlands to attend the celebration of provincial pride.
“This is not just about trophies,” Masaka said. “It is a testament to the legendary resilience and ingenuity of the Midlands people. As Zimbabwe marches towards Vision 2030, the MCTA stands as a reminder that the path to a prosperous upper-middle-income society is paved by the hard work and dedication of community champions.”