History was made on Tues 29 Dec 2015 at the StarBrite finals when Kudzai an inmate at Chikurubi prison won the non-singing category. Kudzai beat a strong field of poets, dance groups, painter and beat box contestants. Her winning poem left the appreciative crowd wanting more. Over the past 3 seasons StarBrite has worked with ZPS to afford inmates with talents the platform. Prisons are not for punishing only but this is an example of rehabilitative activities which prepares the inmate for eventual reintegration into the society. For winning her category Kudzai received a32 gig memory tablet from Gtel communications, $500 cash, holiday for 2 valued at $1,200 courtesy of Regents Hotels (Masvingo) a hamper from Kefalos, a steam iron & Bluetooth speakers. She also got vouchers from Lake Harvest and colcom.
Once again the singing category produced the overall winner in 24 year old diva Novuyo Dube of Bulawayo. Novuyo also won the singing category and got the same prizes as Kudzai.
However, for being g the overall winner Novuyo received a residential stand (courtesy of Vantage microfinance), 30,000 bricks and enough cement for construction of the house (Msasa bricks). Msasa bricks also threw in complimentary building materials to complete the house. Capital Decor chipped in with interior decor to suit Novuyo's taste. Novuyo also got a recording contract.
Comedian Uncle Sam and radio personality Zaza the Zazalicious kept the show going and the audience captivated with their prowess and great sense of humor.
First night saw the contestants’ 1st performance pay tribute and honor Chiwoniso and Hope Masike by performing a medley of the two great artists. For their 2nd performance, the finalists selected and performed from the 70s. The 2nd night of the finals had all the finalists including the no singers. The singers were given a task to write and develop a three minute song and perform with the aid of a live band just like their two previous performances. The no singers were given an open check to select their favorite piece for the finals.
This year’s finals saw the introduction of a new element. A call was made for upcoming designers to register their interest to partner with StarBrite in the finals. Task at hand was to stage a mini fashion show, dress the finalists and just bring a different feel to the proceedings. The move worked like double edged sword, it brought a completely different twist to the finals as well as created value to the upcoming designers. As the finalists were being judged for their performances, the designers were also being judged on their designs. Congratulations to “9 lives” for being voted first in the inaugural fashion and design show.
The Executive Director of StarBrite, Barney Mpariwa addressed the finalists and the audience before announcing the winners. In his speech he, congratulated all the finalists and highlighted that the show was not just about winning the grand title. That it was a process and not an event. All finalists were winners in his eyes. He went further and highlighted the StarBrite story, which he said has been filled with many challenges. “We do what we do simply because of the passion we have, the commitment and dedication of my team is second to none” Said Mr. Mpariwa
StarBrite would like to extend their gratitude to all the partners and the millions of supporters.
Meanwhile if you think you can do better than Novuyo and Kudzai registration for Season 5 is now in progress. StarBrite it’s your time to shine!
