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Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]

ON March 22, a diverse group of hustlers from across Matabeleland will gather at Barbourfields Stadium grounds in Bulawayo. They will be there to inaugurate the first of this year’s two editions of the Hustlers Summit, an event that carries the inspiring theme of “Hope and Hustle.”

Now in its third year, the Hustlers Summit has proven to be a powerful force in the creation of a wide array of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). It has been instrumental in integrating various sectors and promoting the concept of self-reliant projects, particularly among the youth.

The summit, the brainchild of entrepreneur Nkosana George Mazibisa, has drawn the attention of industry leaders. This year, a six-person panel will guide a range of discussions. The panel includes Tsega Tadesse Belachew, based in America, South African Nicolette Mashile and Zimbabwe’s own Andrea The Vocalist and Nyary Moyo.

In previous years, key speakers have included South Africa’s DJ and entrepreneur, DJ Sbu, and the boss of Munch & Sip, Mandipa Masuku.

Mazibisa has revealed that this year’s event will diverge from the format of the past two editions. 

“This year, we are deliberately targeting the youths since there has been a drug pandemic declared and we are taking an active role in keeping them off the streets. Our preparations have been going on well and we are confident of hosting a successful event.

“Our focal point has been emancipating them with self-sufficient skills through projects that they can undertake. For example, we have drilled a borehole in Pumula and we want to see hustlers engaged in farming activities to make ends meet,” said Mazibisa. 

As the Summit approaches, Mazibisa promises there will be many surprises. 

DJ Sbu

“We will also have competitions to help start-ups thrive and those with the best pitches will be awarded with financial seeds as well as mentorship and necessary financial literacy to help them be the best they can be,” he said.

In the lead-up to the event, local artist Mzoe7 has been appointed as the Hustlers Summit’s brand ambassador, and rapper Lamas Ellz has released the official theme song for the convention.

Lamas Ellz shared his excitement about the opportunity with Chronicle Showbiz. 

Mandipa Masuku

“All of this feels great as I’ve been given the opportunity to connect with people and share a message, putting up faith in the work we wish should give us returns. Musicians are hustlers too and it’s great to be a part of this. Singing ‘Hope and Hustle’ has a step in the direction. Its purpose is to motivate people from different walks of life to have hope in the work of their hands,” he said.

Since its inception in 2022, the Hustlers Summit has become a significant event in both the business and showbiz calendars, effectively bridging the two sectors.

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