In this exclusive interview, Ronald Gwatidzo (RG) sits down with the multi-talented Getrude Pfumayaramba (GP) to discuss her journey in the arts, her role as the female voice of Econet, and her personal life away from the public eye. Getrude shares insights into her career, experiences, and the importance of faith and family in her life.

RG: Quick Introduction: How best would you introduce yourself to an audience?

GP: Thank you, Ronald. Getrude is an ambitious creative who uses the power of arts to discover, nurture, educate, advocate, and transform the world.

RG: A lot of people don’t know you’re the Econet female voice. Take us through how you got the opportunity and how it has been so far?

GP: I studied performance arts and media at Theory X Media in 2008, where I trained in voice acting. We had the opportunity to work with the late Walter Muparutsa, one of the people behind Mopane Junction. Through this training, I was scouted by Ross Brownly Walker of Audiophiles to do Econet adverts and IVRs for the company’s call center. That was the beginning of my journey as the voice of Econet. Before Econet, I was the voice of Telecel under “Where It’s At” studios, doing voice work for Telecel advertising and IVRs. I am proud to have worked with such great telecommunications companies in Zimbabwe. Currently, I am still a voice artist, doing a lot of documentaries, animation, hard sale and promo work, and children’s projects.

RG: Let’s talk about Getrude away from the public eye. Who is she?

GP: Getrude is a wife, mom, sister, and a certified and licensed life coach. I specialize in emotional intelligence for children, youths, and personal development, using creative innovation to empower individuals and communities.

RG: You’re a household name in Theater. Take us through your journey in Theater.

GP: From a young age, I believed I was a performer. I grew into the world of arts and culture, starting with Theory X Media. My first professional play, “Sinner?” produced by Daves Guzha of Rooftop Promotions, showcased at Theatre in the Park. I then began writing plays, with my debut “Lamentations @12” touring Zimbabwe, the region, the UK, and the Netherlands. I was selected to represent African female playwrights in the UK at the University of Warwick in 2022. I have served on various boards, including Arterial Network, Zimbabwe Theatre Association, and International Theatre Institute Zimbabwe. I am also the founder and creative director of Dendere Arts Trust.

RG: They say experience is the best teacher. What are some experiences that have shaped your career?

GP: The scarcity of jobs in the industry pushed me to become a creative myself. I started writing and developing other skills to engage with the industry on a larger scale.

RG: Did some digging and found out you are a very active member of Heartfelt International Ministries. Talk to us about the role of God & church in your career.

GP: There’s nothing more important than having a spiritual home. Heartfelt is a safe place for me, under the guidance of Apostle T and Pastor C Vutabwashe. Besides Heartfelt, I interact with other men and women of God who support and sharpen me. I am forever grateful!

RG: You are a wife and a mother. How has family supported your line of work?

GP: My family has been a blessing. They support me in everything, from reading and rehearsing with me to traveling with me on tours. I am grateful for their strong support system.

RG: Women have been shortchanged in various sectors. As a woman in centerstage of Theater, how do you feel about the inclusion of women and diversity?

GP: Women are a powerful force when given the chance.

RG: I understand you speak various languages. Can you use them to inspire young people out there?

GP:

• ZSL: God loves you. Stay strong.
• Ndebele: Vuka, geza, ubangene.
• Shona: Rambai makashinga.
• Nyanja: Mulungu niwabwino.
• French: J’adore les fraises et la crème (I love strawberries and cream).
• Zulu: Qina ukholelwe kuwena (Be strong and believe in yourself).