Music is the universal language which unites people of different ethnicities and creeds. The city in the heart of the nation becomes alive every Thursday each month. Commonly known for its unpredictable weather, Gweru has become a hive of entertainment and thanks to Mr Taleb Mohammed’s initiatives. The Lebanese and his son brought life and excitement to the slow paced city.

What began as Thursday night Karaoke was quickly transformed into Hear Me Zim music contest. Singers from all over Zimbabwe monthly battle it out for the instant US$100 prize.

On the 25th of May which was the Africa Day and it themed Semi-finals. The contestants who grabbed the top three positions made up the 15 who battled it out to become the nine finalists. The night’s entertainment was given by the resident DJ Maine, the Mbira and lead guitar ensemble Mabviravira, serenading the audience adorned in beautiful African print outfits.

Mohammed Taleb’s contagious smile and beaming eyes were revealed when the final nine were announced. The three ladies are Carol Phiri, Kwekwe; Ntombikayise Mhlanga, Victoria Falls and Langelihle Talent Sibanda, Bulawayo. The six gentlemen are Pride K Mhlanga, Bulawayo; Delight Hungwe, Harare; Zoe Innocent Munyariwa, Bulawayo; Tadiwa Moses and Dean (guitarist), Bulawayo; Keith Jamu and Tedious (keyboardist), Victoria Falls and Prince Tinashe Mahambaedwa, Harare respectively.

The unmistakable raw talent paraded by these finalists from all over Zimbabwe is heartwarming as it gives confidence to the future of art through music. It has always been his mandate to create opportunities and platforms which helps Mr Taleb to nurture and grow artists’ talent and in the end give back to the community. The free registration and entry of the ‘Hear Me Zim’ music contest is one of the ways to promote local talent. It is unfortunate that no local singers made it to the 15 and nine respectively but the mandate still remains in supporting and giving opportunities for local talent to thrive.

‘Hear Me Zim’ main partner Eagles Nest has offered out of towner with accommodation for the beginning of the season up to now. A gesture to show support of the vision and activities associated. A vision can sometimes die a natural death when no one believes in it or buys into it. Mr Taleb’s vision continues to grow and have a great impact when more players see the vision and run together with it.

It is said the fruit does not fall far from the tree and it is true with Milan Family Restaurant. Kerem Mohammed, like his father looks at Gweru with a different perspective. The heart of the nation is where the core of entertainment resides and it is their prerogative to uplift the talent in the community and see them flourish.

All roads lead to Gweru for the Finals on the 6th of July. The Groove Band which hails from Kwekwe shall be playing all the 18 songs for the nine finalists.

I have a few ideas of what I could do with $2000 for the winner, unfortunately I am always on the opposite side of the stage.