Bulawayo, Zimbabwe – The third day of TEXPO25 is set to inspire Zimbabwe’s creative and entrepreneurial communities with a powerful keynote address and a thought-provoking panel discussion led by renowned musician and creative entrepreneur Tariro ‘neGitare’ Chaniwa. Under the theme “Turning Passion into Profit – The Business of Creativity: Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities,” the session will explore how creativity can drive sustainable economic growth and community development.

Tariro Chaniwa, known for her soulful musical performances and impactful work in arts development, is the founder of TNG Music and Magitare Africa Trust. She also manages the prestigious Stanbic Jacaranda Music Festival. With academic credentials in personnel management, sociology, gender studies, and development, Tariro has emerged as a leading voice in the Zimbabwean creative sector, championing the empowerment of artists and the development of sustainable arts ecosystems.

“We are in an era where creativity must be viewed not only as an art form but also as a business,” said Chaniwa. “The future of Africa’s creative economy lies in our ability to transform our passions into platforms for livelihood and legacy.”

Following her keynote, Chaniwa will moderate a panel discussion featuring three trailblazing creatives and entrepreneurs whose work exemplifies the business potential of the arts.

Mandipa Masuku, founder of the wildly popular Munch & Sip food and lifestyle festival, brings her expertise in culinary innovation and cultural entrepreneurship to the panel. Known for transforming Bulawayo’s event scene, Mandipa’s work in food festivals, brand activations, and cultural exchange has earned her recognition as one of the few female music promoters in Zimbabwe. Her projects continue to redefine how culture can empower communities and drive tourism and business.

Mpi Ndebele, Founding Director of Innovation for Africa, joins the panel as a passionate entrepreneurship ecosystem builder. A U.S. Department of State IVLP alumnus and electronic engineer, Ndebele has led and mentored numerous startups across the continent. His mission is to spark innovation and economic resilience by building vibrant startup communities throughout Africa.

Rounding out the panel is Saimon Mambazo Phiri, a celebrated Zimbabwean creative and arts entrepreneur whose contributions span directing, producing, writing, and arts advocacy. Through his work and partnerships—both local and international—Phiri has played a pivotal role in shaping Zimbabwe’s cultural identity and inspiring the next generation of artists.

Together, these creative leaders will share insights into how artists and entrepreneurs can build sustainable careers, navigate challenges, and capitalize on emerging trends in Africa’s creative economy.

TEXPO25 continues to position itself as a vital space for technology, creativity, and innovation in Zimbabwe and across the continent. Hosted at the Zimbabwe Academy of Music in Bulawayo, the expo brings together diverse voices to chart a bold future for Africa’s creative industries.

For more updates and registration details, visit the official TEXPO25 platforms.