Entertainment
ZCTA Innovative Live Show winner Blessing Deve’s profile
I surrender completely to the Holy Spirit so that He will flow through me at His will to His people
Gospel music minister, Worship Leader, Entrepreneur and Women’s Advocate
Summary
Blessing Deve is a gospel music minister and a devoted follower of Christ who is passionate to deliver good news to people across the world in song. She is also an entrepreneur, a business development officer for a thriving media broadcaster and she serves in the worship and women’s ministry in her local church. Blessing is a proud mother of three and an advocate for women.
Background
Born and raised in Zimbabwe, Blessing believes her call to the music ministry came at a very tender age. She spent most of her upbringing in church owing to the strong Christian family within which she was raised, which laid a foundation to her deep love for God. It is in that time that the passion to serve God through music was ignited within her and she began participating in various choirs and music groups. Some of the choirs and music groups include: Voices of Worship, a non-denominational music outfit which she founded and codirected, as well as an acapella singing group called Sweet Fellowship within the AFM church where she once served. Blessing currently serves as a worship leader in the United Family International Church (UFIC) choir under the mentorship of Prophet Emmanuel and Prophetess Ruth Makandiwa.
Musical Inspiration
Blessing maintains that the key to her music ministry is simply acknowledging Jesus Christ, the owner of the gift and giving Him centre stage in all she does. Her deep spirituality comes through in each and every song and ministration as she states, “Each opportunity I have to minister, I surrender completely to the Holy Spirit so that He will flow through me at His will to His people”. The goal and major highlight for her is to witness the move of God visibly touching lives and deliverance through moments of ministration.
Although she is deeply Christ-centred in her approach to music, Blessing also draws inspiration from other musicians both internationally and locally in her home country Zimbabwe. Internationally she is inspired by acclaimed worshippers such as Sinach, Cece Winans, Darlene Zschech and the gospel outfit Hillsong. As such, the sound in her music also takes an international feel in line with her vision and desire to touch people across the world. Although she sees the world as her pulpit, Blessing remains profoundly connected within her local Zimbabwean music field drawing inspiration from other fellow local musicians some of whom she has shared the stage with. These include people like Minister Michael Mahendere, Janet Manyowa, Hannah Mapepeta and Jane Doka.
Music Discography
Blessing stepped out as a solo gospel music artist with the release of her debut album God is able in 2016. Craftily produced by exceptionally talented award-winning producer Nigel Nyangombe, the seven-track album captures Blessing’s heart and music outlook. It features songs which draw and point people to God as the source of hope. Blessing says that she wrote and composed these songs at a time when she was going through various transitions in her life where she found comfort and guidance in God who is able. Some of the tracks which still touch many people today include the title track God is able – a song close to Blessing’s heart which reminds people that God is a God of impossibilities. The same album features the song Ngatifare (let us rejoice) which is a song of gratitude. The album was succeeded by a singletrack Zita raJesu (the name of Jesus) produced in 2020, a song that exalts the name of Jesus Christ. Zita raJesu was so well received by the general public that it was recognised on the gospel music charts on major music stations in Zimbabwe including ZiFM Radio and StarFM Radio. Zita raJesu was number one for 6 consecutive on ZiFM Radio.
Following the release and success of Zita raJesu, Blessing successfully hosted a live worship experience in December 2020 right in the middle of the pandemic which she entitled ‘The Blessed Encounter’. She performed and ministered her songs live before a virtual audience who were greatly ministered to and gave positive comments and feedback during and after the event. Videos from the Blessed Encounter are available on her YouTube channel. Blessing is currently in the studio working on her third offering which will be another single release coming out soon.
Accolades and acknowledgements
Blessing was given a prize of a solar kit worth US$1500 for the success of Zita raJesu topping the charts on number one on ZiFM Radio for 6 consecutive weeks. The prize was sponsored by the company Voltman Solar, a major retail and wholesale supplier of renewable energy equipment and systems in Zimbabwe. Since then she has been attracting the interest of corporates, which is not an easy thing for most gospel musicians in Zimbabwe. Other corporates like the chemical and cosmetics brand Kusi Chemicals, a leading manufacturer and distributor of cleaning products, services, and equipment in Zimbabwe, have endorsed Blessing’s music and made her their brand ambassador. The endorsements have included extension of financial and logistical support to her ministry. God’s hand and favour on her ministry is seen in these major endorsements as well as numerous divine helpers supporting her music in various ways.
Other activities
Blessing is a growing adroit business entrepreneur in the beauty industry. She owns a beauty spa called B’s Nail and Beauty Bar, which aims to boost women’s confidence and selfesteem in the area of beauty. Blessing says that seeing her clients happy after a total makeover motivates her to continue improving her services in the nail and beauty business. Blessing is also a Business Development Officer for the giant media broadcaster Christ TV which has a global reach of an estimated 10 million worldwide. Outside music, work and church activities, Blessing enjoys talking to and counselling fellow women and girls in line with her goal to be an advocate for women. She aspires to be a talk show host in the near future and is in the process of writing a book.
Media links
https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/a-song-15-years-in-the-making
https://www.zimetro.co.zw/gospel-diva-blessing-deve-drops-new-project/
Social Media Handles
YouTube: @Blessing Deve
Facebook @Blessing Deve Official
Instagram @blessing_deve
Store Links
Godsent App Buddie beats Apple Music
Zim Community Trailblazers Awards
Zim goatpreneur makes a mark in SA
‘Zim Community Trailblazers awards has decided to honour you with the Outstanding Farmer award for consistently demonstrating excellence in transforming lives in our communities through livestock farming. In arriving at this decision our judges were impressed with your trailblazing accomplishments that which begun in 2016 after graduating as a young agronomist armed with a vision run a multinational agricultural project in Africa that provides innovative ways to industrialise the continent’s livestock sector.
Emboldened by a burning desire to fulfil your dream you rose to become a prominent breeder of Gatsheni Boer Goat Stud in Zimbabwe and South Africa where you have registered with the Boer Goats Breeders Association.
You carved a niche for yourself as a high-achiever through your Gatsheni Breeding Company which specialises in breeding Boer goats by expanding your business foot print in Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe.
You are one of the pioneers in bringing The Boer goat in the Matabeleland region, especially Beitbridge .’
A YOUNG and ambitious goat farmer from Beitbridge, Ntandoyenkosi Ndhlovu, despite facing numerous challenges, has made a name for himself in the agricultural industry.
Ndhlovu has persevered and built a successful goat farming business, exporting high-quality Boer goats to various African countries and is blazing the trail in South Africa were he is now based.
“My interest in agriculture and goat farming was sparked by my exposure to farming practices in my community,” Ndhlovu said. “I saw the potential for goat farming to improve livelihoods and contribute to food security, and I was determined to make a difference.”
A Passion for Agriculture
Growing up in a rural area, Ndhlovu developed a passion for agriculture and animal husbandry at a young age. He was inspired by the dominance of livestock farming in Beitbridge’s economy and saw an opportunity to make a career out of it.
“I wanted to transform the narrative around agriculture: from being a retirement pursuit to a viable career path and sustainable business model,” Ndhlovu said. “I wanted to be an example by starting young with nothing, so that I will be able to preach what I know, not what I think.”
Overcoming Challenges
Ndhlovu faced numerous challenges as he built his business, including limited resources, market access, and competition. However, he persevered and adapted, attending workshops, trainings, and using social media marketing to overcome these challenges.
“Farming isn’t a career for selfish individuals,” Ndhlovu said. “It needs other farmers to work together to combat diseases, build strong markets, and cut production costs.”
Awards and recognition
Ndhlovu’s hard work and dedication have paid off, and he has become a leading figure in the goat farming industry. In 2023, he won the Pacesetters Awards Goat Farmer of the Year award, which recognised his outstanding contributions to the industry. He has also been honoured with the Outstanding Farmer award at the prestigious Zim Community Trailblazers Awards, further solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in the agricultural sector.
“Winning these awards is a significant milestone,” Ndhlovu said. “It recognizes my hard work and dedication to goat farming, and it boosts my reputation in the industry.”
Giving Back to the Community
He is committed to giving back to his community and supporting local development. Through his Gatsheni Goat Empowerment Project, he donates Boer bucks or Meatmaster rams to community members to cross-breed with their local sheep or goats, promoting carcass weight and growth rate.
“My dream is to work with small stock and help farmers improve their livelihoods through goats and sheep farming,” Ndhlovu said.
A Bright Future
Ndlovu’s vision is to impact the entire African continent through livestock production, and he plans to achieve this by expanding his operations, sharing knowledge, and collaborating with other farmers.
“I’m passionate about initiatives that support agricultural development and community empowerment,” he said. “I believe that trust is an underrated capital that can help you build an empire.”
With his dedication, expertise, and commitment to giving back to the community, Ndhlovu is sure to make a lasting impact in the agricultural industry.
The Zim Community Trailblazers Awards (ZCTA) recently inducted 15 outstanding past awardees into its Hall of Fame at the fifth edition of the prestigious community awards in Zimbabwe.
The ceremony, held at the Harare International Conference Centre on January 31, was officiated by the Minister of Information and Broadcasting Services, Jenfan Muswere.
The ZCTA recognises and celebrates individuals and organisations making a profound impact in their communities.
According to Albert Masaka, one of the event organisers, the ZCTA Hall of Fame aims to celebrate excellence, foster community engagement, and drive positive change.
Future Plans for the ZCTA Hall of Fame
Mentorship Programme: Pairing Hall of Fame inductees with emerging leaders or young individuals for regular mentorship sessions.
Community Engagement: Inviting Hall of Fame inductees to lead or participate in community projects, bringing together inductees, community members, and stakeholders to tackle pressing community issues.
Knowledge Sharing: Creating a digital archive or publication featuring the stories, experiences, and lessons learned from Hall of Fame inductees, hosting talks, webinars, or online courses featuring inductees as speakers.
Recognition and Celebration: Creating a physical or virtual exhibition showcasing the achievements, contributions, and stories of Hall of Fame inductees, hosting an annual induction ceremony to induct new members.
Capacity Building: Offering training and capacity-building programs for inductees, facilitating connections between inductees to provide access to resources, networks, and opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Community Impact: Conducting regular assessments to measure the impact of Hall of Fame inductees on their communities, supporting and amplifying community initiatives led by Hall of Fame inductees.
The ZCTA Hall of Fame is expected to increase recognition and celebration of exceptional community leaders and organizations, foster community engagement and collaboration, drive positive change, and provide a platform for community leaders to share their stories and experiences ¹.
The Big 15 Hall of Fame inductees
ZCTA 2024
Hall of Fame
1. Pastor Dr Ruth Musarurwa
2. Dr. Nigel Chanakira
3. Dr. Solomon Guramatunhu
4. Prophet Effort V. Maphosa
5. Dr .Johannes Marisa
6. Mr/s Isaiah and Tsitsi Musabayana
7. Black Umfolosi
8. Pastor Dr Daisy Mukariri
9. Minister Michael Mahendere
10 . Kidzcan
11. Dr Edzai Kachirekwa
12 Zimpapers
13. Radio Zimbabwe
14. Mutare City Council
15. Zodwa Mkandla
Harare – The Zim Community Trailblazers Awards (ZCTA) has announced a comprehensive strategy that focuses on inclusive partnerships as it celebrates the fifth edition of the prestigious community awards ceremony.
The strategy, aimed at promoting excellence and community development in Zimbabwe, is built around 11 key pillars: commitment to the awards’ mission and vision, inclusive media partnership, innovation, unique selling proposition, strong relationships, robust brand identity, industry analysis, collaboration, quality and excellence, online presence, and audience engagement.
“As we celebrate our fifth edition, we remain committed to our mission and vision,” said Meshia Mambo, ZCTA spokesperson.
The prestigious community awards’ mission is to recognise and celebrate outstanding achievements and contributions to community development, social responsibility, and excellence in Zimbabwe. The awards’ vision is to be the premier awards ceremony in Zimbabwe, renowned for recognising and celebrating excellence, innovation, and community development.
The ZCTA board led by Dr. Nigel Chanakira, a renowned business mentor and philanthropist, has been instrumental in shaping the awards’ vision and mission. Its leadership has been pivotal in promoting excellence and community development in Zimbabwe.
Respected medical practitioner Dr Johaness Marisa and Tinashe Nyahwema are the other board members including shareholders Albert Masaka and Tariro Masunda.
“We are pleased to announce that West View Clinics and Westview Group of Schools and Ekenia Chifamba from Shamwari Ye Mwanasikana have come on board to sponsor some categories,” said Meshia Mambo. “We are grateful for their support and call upon more sponsors to partner with us in celebrating excellence and community development in Zimbabwe.”
The ZCTA seeks to foster strong relationships with stakeholders, including nominees, winners, sponsors, and partners. This will enable the awards to continue promoting community development, social responsibility, and excellence in Zimbabwe.
The Zim Community Trailblazers Awards is a prestigious awards ceremony that aims to promote community development, social responsibility, and excellence in Zimbabwe. The awards are open to individuals and organizations from all sectors, including business, sports, education, entertainment, healthcare, and non-profit, among others.
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