ONE of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated female authors Audrey Chirenje has urged authors and creatives to collaborate and network inorder to elevate the arts industry.
She was speaking at the inaugural Creatives Meet and Greet Initiative, which coincided with the second anniversary of her publishing and marketing outfit Chances Inc, which had brought several authors and creatives from several disciplines including writing, music, and design under one roof at Batanai Gardens in Harare.
Chirenje stated that collaboration was the best way forward if the arts industry was to make significant strides into the future.
“We aim to provide a space where creatives can connect, discuss their work, learn from each other, and collaborate on projects. Through our events and networking opportunities, we hope to inspire creativity, encourage exploration, and elevate the arts industry as a whole,” she said.
Artistic diversity took centre stage with spoken word performances from cultural heritage ambassador Chengeto Mayowe and poet Gladman “Mwana Wagidza” Mwandaenda and gospel musician pastor Sandra Chirenje.
Speakers who graced the event included African coaching genius Tafadzwa Mukoyi popularly known as Coach Taf, Customer Service Guru Clemence Mutembo, Founder and Convener of The Mesh Jonathan Ralph Kadurira, and motivational speaker Amon Tangwena amongst others.
Chirenje added that they were hoping to make it a nationwide programme beginning 2024 with Bulawayo being their second targeted city to host the next networking event.