United States-based Zimbabwean and prominent businessman cum arts promoter Bevan Makaka says he is happy with the award he received recently at the Zimbabwe Diaspora Awards and Celebration dinner held at Meikles Hotel in Harare.
Makaka of Xcelerate Enterprise scooped the “Best Event Planning and Entertainment” category at an event that attracted hundreds of diasporans who were in the country ahead of the festive season.
Organisers of the inaugural event saw it fit to host such a show as this was the only time such personalities and business moguls were around, under one roof.
They were rewarded for the work they are doing both locally and abroad — developing and putting Zimbabwe on the map.
To accept Makaka’s award was comedienne cum socialite Felistas Murata “Mai TT” who fully represented Makaka as she said, “I am here for my boss, he is so proud and couldn’t make it to the show due to business commitments.”
“He is so proud of the award as it will go a long way in boosting his confidence in his endeavours. Thank you organisers,” said Mai TT.
The award was presented to her by businesswoman Zodwa Mkandla and United Kingdom-based designer Leah Mwandarika.
In an interview with The Herald Arts, Makaka said he was happy the award and was looking forward to more next year.
He said it meant a lot to him.
“This award means recognition and appreciation,” he said.
“To us, it comes as a clear indication that our work in entertainment is being recognised and appreciated. Yes, it might not be a surprise because we have worked hard the past year.”
Makaka said they are now ready for 2024 as they have something on their calendars.
“We have a lot of projects in 2024 and this recognition is a call for us to deliver more, bigger and better.”
“2023 was the genesis of some of our big projects, the Dallas Musical and Cultural Festival was a big success for us and it was sold out, but as first-timers, we learned a lot and we can assure you that the 2024 edition is going to be even better.”
“2024 is another opportunity for us to make things happen, we have a lot of Zimbabwean superstars that are set to perform in Dallas United States, this includes a lot of celebrities too.”
