ABOUT HODZEKO ARTS AND CULTURE ASSOCIATION
Hodzeko Defined
Hodzeko Arts and Culture Association (HACA) is a collective of like-minded individuals from various artistic disciplines, including filmmaking, scriptwriting, music, dance, modeling, sculpture, editing, performing arts, cultural heritage preservation, sociology, pottery, architecture, basketry, fashion design, fine arts, and craft. Our mission is to empower early-stage arts communities to reach new heights.
Registered in Zimbabwe in 2018, HACA initially focused on promoting arts and talent through performances and exhibitions. However, we have since expanded our scope to align with international standards, embracing the three pillars of sustainable development: economic growth, ecological balance, and social progress.
Currently, we have 150 affiliates and envision expanding our operations globally. By fostering a multidisciplinary and cross-cultural approach to edutainment, we aim to shape, foster, and define excellence in the arts, while contributing to job creation and sustainable development.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
HACA offers a diverse range of services across various artistic genres, including:
– Film, Audio, and Multimedia Production
– Cultural Heritage Preservation and Promotion
– Visual Arts (Fine Arts and Craft)
– Cultural Industries and Creative Economy
– Literature and Languages
– Performing Arts
– Cultural Production and Identity Expression (including Beauty Pageants)
– Cultural Sociology
These genres are carefully selected to explore the boundaries of multidisciplinary arts, inspiring arts appreciation and participation. Our goal is to foster a creative, forward-thinking, and sociable future, building ongoing artistic capacity among individuals and communities.
At Hodzeko, we harness the power of arts as effective tools to tell unique, life-changing stories. These stories aim to demystify and diffuse risky behaviors that endanger lives, promoting positive change and impact.
VISION
HACA envisions a future where creativity and spirit thrive, fostering just and peaceful communities. We see neighborhoods as safe sanctuaries that nurture innovation and creativity, where arts are essential for learning, leading, and liberation. Artists are empowered to prosper, envision, and lead, recognized as engaged citizens and change-makers.
MISSION STATEMENT
HACA creates artistic platforms and content to drive positive social transformation, promoting people’s rights and human rights and freedoms.
CORE VALUES & PRACTICES
– Imagination: We believe arts are essential for discovering dreams, making sense of realities, sparking creative thinking, and re-imagining a better future. We facilitate diverse perspectives, courageous creativity, wonder, collaboration, and bold risk-taking.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
HACA aims to:
– Produce artistic content
– Nurture young and early-stage artists, helping them survive and grow during the vulnerable start-up period
– Graduate affiliated individuals and groups to the multi-arts business world with better chances of survival, self-sustenance, and growth
– Foster a culture of respect for people’s rights and freedom
– Strengthen and protect human rights at all levels of Zimbabwean society
– Promote and advocate for human rights provisions and democratic practice through arts locally, regionally, and internationally.
OUTLOOK
HACA is committed to:
– Teamwork to deliver high-quality productions and stay competitive
– Promoting the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) and the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Arts and Recreation’s initiatives to preserve and spread cultural values
– Respecting diverse audience tastes and preferences, providing our best services without discrimination
– Upholding honesty, integrity, and professionalism in all our endeavors
CORE STRATEGIES
To achieve our mandate, HACA has three core strategies:
1. Infrastructure Provision: Offering office and workshop spaces, training rooms, rehearsal rooms, exhibition rooms, warehouses, parking, cafeteria, and information resource center.
2. Core Services: Fostering arts-based projects and skills development through key services, available to clients through separate agreements and conditions.
3. Priorities: By 2035, HACA aims to facilitate artistic business and entrepreneurial activities, nurture creative elements and cultural industries within communities, and assume a lead role in partnership with registered individuals and partner organizations.
Vision 2035: HACA will create an environment that encourages and supports artistic innovation and entrepreneurship, developing sustainable cultural industries and creative ecosystems.
OUR TEAM
Meet our team:
MAVIS KOSLEK
BOARD CHAIRPERSON
Mavis Koslek, a veteran modelling instructor and founder of Image Modelling Agency, chairs the Board with distinction. Her agency, based in Gweru, Zimbabwe, is a premier talent hub for the arts and entertainment industry, fostering strong partnerships with top artists, models, and casting agencies in the Midlands region.
Image Modelling Agency boasts a diverse talent pool, representing individuals of all ages, shapes, sizes, and experience levels, including babies, toddlers, children, teenagers, characters, models, extras, athletes, dancers, plus-size models, hand models, twins, presenters, voice-over artists, musicians, actors, and actresses.
Koslek’s expertise extends to providing talent for various productions, including TV commercials, infomercials, runway fashion shows, photographic shoots, films, soap operas, dramas, billboards, magazine shoots, and sports events. Her institution is the go-to destination for casting directors, production companies, advertising agencies, and event planners seeking top talent.
In recognition of her dedication, hard work, and significant contributions to the arts and entertainment industry, Mavis Koslek received the Long Time Achievement Award from the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce in June 2022. This well-deserved honor acknowledges her commitment to nurturing talent and promoting artistic excellence, making a lasting impact on Zimbabwe’s entertainment industry.
SIPHOSAMI NDLOVU
VICE BOARD CHAIRPERSON
Siphosami Ndlovu is a multifaceted creative talent and accomplished author, with a writing career spanning over two decades. Since 1999, he has written numerous scripts and poems, including over 20 produced Shona and Ndebele plays that captivated audiences between 2000 and 2010. His notable works include the acclaimed radio play “Imicimbicimbi kasathani”, which resonated with listeners nationwide on Radio Zimbabwe. Ndlovu is also a celebrated performing poet and actor, with credits in various stage, radio, and film productions, including the successful first season of Nashville Heights, broadcast on Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation and currently airing on DSTv’s 3Ktv Channel 293. In addition to his writing and performance expertise, Ndlovu excels in arts management, film and video production, and film theory. He has honed his skills through hands-on experience, internships, and formal education, including a stint at Dorset Performing Arts in the Midlands Province. Currently, he is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Film & Theatre Studies Honours Degree, further solidifying his expertise in the field.
CYTHIA CHINGORIWO
RESEACH AND ADVOCACY OFFICER
Cynthia Chingorivo, Research and Advocacy Officer, is a dedicated environmentalist and conservationist who combines her passion for the arts and the environment to drive positive change. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Geography and Environmental Studies Honours Degree, Cynthia brings a depth of knowledge and expertise to her role. As a talented actress, she leverages the power of creative expression to raise awareness and inspire action on environmental issues. Her goal of becoming an arts administrator at Hodzeko is fueled by her belief in the transformative potential of arts and culture in promoting environmental conservation and sustainability. Through her work, Cynthia has already made a significant impact, encouraging her colleagues to consider the profound impact of human actions on the planet and fostering a deeper understanding of the importance of environmental stewardship. Her efforts have inspired collective action to address pressing environmental issues, both locally and globally.
DUMISANI NDLOVU
COMMUNICATIONS & INFORMATION DIRECTOR
Dumisani Ndlovu is a multifaceted creative arts director, media practitioner, communications executive, and public policy analyst with a wealth of experience in strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership. As the founder of the Zimbabwe International Disability Inclusive Arts and Culture Festival (ZIDIAC Fest), he has utilized his skills to promote disability inclusion and arts accessibility. With a background in journalism, Dumisani has worked with various media houses, including The Zimbabwean and The Times, and currently writes for Hericom Media, covering arts, development, humanitarian, courts, crimes, politics, and environment news. He holds a BSc Honours degree in Media and Society Studies and has received accolades for his work, including awards for his journalism. Additionally, Dumisani is a graduate of the SIVIO Institute’s advocacy program, further enhancing his expertise in public policy analysis.
His areas of expertise include:
– Creative arts direction and management
– Strategic communications and stakeholder engagement
– Team leadership and collaboration
– Journalism and storytelling
– Event planning and execution
– Logistics and organization
– Public policy analysis and advocacy
Dumisani’s passion for inclusivity, creativity, and storytelling has driven his work in the arts and media sectors, making him a valuable asset to the ZIDIAC Fest team.
PASCAR PETER MANHIVI
IT OFFICER
Pascar Peter Manhivi, IT Specialist, brings a wealth of expertise to the organization, holding an Honors Degree in Information Systems from Midlands State University (2015). With a strong foundation in cloud services, hardware and software management, IT auditing and consulting, and network administration, Pascar delivers exceptional IT support services. Demonstrating a high level of professionalism and a commitment to ethical digital transformation, he ensures seamless technical support for the organization’s computer systems. Pascar expertly maintains and troubleshoots computer networks, installs and configures hardware and software, and resolves technical issues with prompt efficiency. His expertise and dedication are crucial to the smooth operation of all departments, and he plays a vital role in maintaining the organization’s IT infrastructure, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
KAKONO ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Simbarashe Kakono, Artistic Director, is a distinguished creative leader with a remarkable career spanning over a decade in both stage and multimedia productions. His exceptional expertise and abilities are rooted in his background as a trained teacher and his extensive work in the creative and cultural industries as a director, creative producer, administrator, and humanitarian and social justice activist. Widely recognized throughout Zimbabwe and the SADC Region, Kakono’s work has been extensively showcased through various platforms, including theatre, film, television, and radio. While acknowledging Africa’s political and economic advancements, he firmly believes that creativity is pivotal to the continent’s greatness and must be prioritized as a driving force for human development, harnessing the power of art to shape a brighter future.
MORISSEN MAMUTSE: OPERATIONS MANAGER
Morrisen Mamutse, Operations Director, is a globally acclaimed award winner renowned for his exceptional work in empowering marginalized communities. Holding a Master’s Degree in International Development from a prestigious UK university, Morrisen is a passionate and pragmatic development practitioner with a unique blend of academic expertise and personal experience. His lived experiences, shaped by his rural Zimbabwean upbringing and journey as an immigrant, academic, parent, researcher, and author, form the foundation of his writing on empowerment. Morrisen’s distinctive perspective illuminates the challenges faced by young people in areas such as integration, careers, inclusion, and relationships. Complementing his professional achievements, Morrisen is a dedicated volunteer, having made a positive impact on the lives of the underprivileged through his work with charities in Uganda, Zimbabwe, and the UK. As a motivational and public speaker of exceptional quality, he inspires others with his thoughts and experiences, leaving a lasting impact on his audiences.
AUGUSTINE PHIRI
FINANCE MANAGER
Augustine Phiri, Financial Manager, is a highly qualified and experienced accounting professional. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce ((link unavailable)) in Accounting and a Master’s degree in Accounting, and is a certified public accountant (CIS). In addition to his technical expertise, Augustine has a strong educational background, having taught accounts at Parkinson High School in Shurugwi and served as a headmaster at Dorset Secondary School for over four years. He also holds a Diploma in Theology from UAFC. With his unique blend of technical and leadership skills, Augustine brings a high level of expertise and dedication to his role as Financial Manager.
MUSIC CONSULTANCY
Ngonidzashe T. Kashitigu is a seasoned music industry professional with a strong academic background and extensive experience in music business consultancy, management, and promotion. Holding a Master’s degree in Music Business, Musicology, and Technology, and an Upper Second Class Honors degree in Social Sciences, Ngonidzashe possesses a deep understanding of the music industry, from composition theory to business strategy.
With a proven track record in artist management, music promotion, and event coordination, Ngonidzashe has honed his skills through his work with the National Training and Conference of the Arts in Zimbabwe (NATCAZ). As a performing arts consultant and program coordinator, he has demonstrated his expertise in delivering successful projects and events.
Ngonidzashe’s unique blend of academic knowledge, industry experience, and practical skills makes him a valuable asset to any organization or artist seeking guidance and support in the music industry.
DISABILTY INCLUSIVE OFFICER
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Mcebisi Phiri, fondly known as Dr. Mzalah, is a esteemed radio personality at Central Radio, with a wealth of experience in communications, arts advisory, marketing strategy, and professional arts. His media career spans over seven years, beginning with community radio stations in 2015, and includes his involvement in the 2017 biometric voter registration media campaigns. Phiri has also demonstrated a passion for social causes, serving as a student ambassador for sexual health matters and disability rights, and engaging in charity work and advocacy.
With a lifelong passion for radio and a talent for acting and songwriting, Phiri brings a unique blend of creativity and expertise to his role as Advisor to Hodzeko, a position he has held since December 5th, 2019. In this capacity, he provides invaluable guidance to project managers, teams, government counterparts, and stakeholders, ensuring the successful delivery of projects on time and to a high standard. Through his advisory role, Phiri plays a critical part in enhancing the capacity of HACA, its affiliates, and local beneficiary communities, and his contributions have been instrumental in driving project results.
INTERNAL ADVISOR
Charlton Nyoni, born in 1967 in Bulawayo, is a multifaceted visual artist and poet of international renown. His artistic journey began in 1982, and he has since achieved widespread recognition for his work, which spans the globe. Nyoni has collaborated on poetry projects, graced stages with his performances, and even made appearances in Hollywood films such as “The Power of One” and “King Solomon’s Mines”.
His visual art has been showcased in esteemed international galleries, with permanent displays in various countries. As a respected advisor to several art organizations, Nyoni has also served as a referral for art scholarships to numerous institutions. With his expertise, he provides specialized guidance on professionalizing arts, arts marketing, and the buying and selling of artwork, offering valuable insights into the current market.
Nyoni’s open-mindedness, social standing, and extensive knowledge of artists and their techniques have greatly benefited HACA, enabling the organization to deliver exceptional client services. His contributions have been instrumental in shaping the art world, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence artists globally.
COMMITTE MEBERS:
IREEN KUMUNDATI
Ireen Kumundati’s design philosophy focuses on crafting unique and creative brands tailored to domestic and international markets, with a special emphasis on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and micro-businesses. By adopting this approach, she contributes significantly to our understanding of the interplay between national contexts and global connections in shaping creative entrepreneurship, particularly at the micro and SME levels. Her work highlights the importance of localized, sustainable, and inclusive design practices that prioritize cultural sensitivity and community engagement.
Ireen’s design studio is dedicated to crafting bespoke and innovative brands that resonate with both local and international audiences, with a special focus on empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and micro-businesses. By adopting a tailored approach that celebrates cultural diversity and community engagement, she sheds light on the intricate relationships between national contexts and global connections that shape the creative entrepreneurship landscape. Her work serves as a testament to the power of sustainable, inclusive, and culturally sensitive design practices that prioritize human-centric storytelling and brand authenticity.
CHARITY MUTSURE
Charity Mutsure is a distinguished fashion and design expert, celebrated for her exceptional work showcased at esteemed national exhibitions, including the esteemed International Trade Fair. With a keen sense of style and a drive for innovation, Charity lends her vast expertise in specialized design services, focusing on sports, corporate, and fashion design. Her impressive portfolio and dedication to excellence solidify her position as a respected authority in her field, offering tailored solutions for clients seeking high-quality design services. Whether it’s crafting sleek sports apparel, sophisticated corporate wear, or trendy fashion pieces, Charity’s expertise ensures exceptional results.
RUTENDO MADANHIRE
Rutendo Madanhire is a versatile and talented actress with an unwavering passion for the arts. With a career spanning over a decade, she has honed her craft through extensive training and diverse performances on stage, screen, and radio. Rutendo’s dedication to her craft is evident in her ability to bring characters to life with depth, nuance, and authenticity. Her impressive range has earned her roles in various productions, from classical plays to contemporary dramas, showcasing her adaptability and talent. Rutendo’s passion for storytelling and her commitment to the arts make her a valuable asset to the entertainment industry, inspiring audiences with her performances.
DR MUNYEBVU
Dr. Tendayi Munyebvu is not a formal member of Hodzeko Arts and Culture Association (HACA) but has generously contributed to the organization by sponsoring and creating the Hodzeko website. His passion for Zimbabwean culture and arts inspired this gesture. Dr. Munyebvu has committed to continue sponsoring the website for as long as feasible, until HACA can assume sponsorship. Hodzeko ensures that all content published on the website aligns with the ethical values of the sponsor and adheres to the site’s privacy policy, reflecting our appreciation for his support.
A WORD OF GRATITUDE AND TOKEN OF APPRECIATION
Hodzeko is deeply grateful for Dr. Munyebvu’s generosity and support, which has enabled us to showcase our culture and arts to a global audience. We extend our sincere appreciation to Dr. Munyebvu for his contributions, which have been instrumental in promoting Zimbabwean heritage and enriched our community and inspired future generations.