Tsholotsho born Isibaya actor gives back

HIGH-RIDING Isibaya actor Ernest Ndlovu at the weekend told artistes from Matabeleland based in South Africa that they have to believe in themselves if they are to make it in the showbiz industry.

Ndlovu, born in Tshololotsho, was one of the speakers at a one-day workshop organised by Matabeleland Entertainment News and Shilolo Music at the Hilbrow Theatre in Johannesburg targeted at artistes from the region.

Mothusi Bashimane Ndlovu said the workshop was organised to equip locals trying to make it in South Africa with skills in artists management, positioning, branding, marketing and distribution.

The workshop also explored the process of registering with the Southern African Music Rights Organisation and the Zimbabwe Music Rights Association.

Artistes also discussed challenges faced by Matabeleland artistes' especially pertaining to airplay for their music both in Zimbabwe and South Africa.

"Our very own Ernest Ndlovu who has worked in so many TV series in South Africa, which include Khululeka, Generations, Inkaba, Egoli and is currently on Isibaya addressed the artistes," Mothusi said.

"He made the artists believe in themselves by using himself as a case study.

"Everything else worked against him because he came from Tsholotsho where he grew up and no one gave him a chance but today he is a celebrated actor in South Africa."

He said Saturday's workshop was well attended, an indication that the region had a lot of untapped talent.

"First to speak was Oscar Tyumure who is the current manager of Patricia Majalisa and BY4 Music," Mothusi said.

"He focused on the importance of artistes having a manager who would manage their affairs.

"Then it was time for Stanley Khoza to speak to the artists. Stanley is the CEO (chief executive officer) of Big Punch Media, a company that currently manages our very own jazz star Bozoe.

"As our main guest speaker Stanley emphasised that it is important for one to be talented in that field before they think about turning professsinal."

Sibongile Shezi, a publicist who has worked with Kuli Chana, Kabelo and Thandiswa Mazwai spoke about the role of a publicist and why it is important for artistes to engage them.

Some of the artistes who attended were Bozoe, Zinjaziyamluma, Vivienne Nkiwane, Fortune Dawu, Imbizo, Inkanyez Zezulu, Amabubesi Amnyama and Tjidzani, DJ Mo Shaba among others.

"We have agreed to draw up a database for Matabeleland artistes based in Johannesburg and help each other to improve our craft," Mothusi said.

"The workshop made us realise that we still have a long way to go as Matabelelad artistes."