CHIVAVIRO AWARDS

Musician Reverend Togarepi Chivaviro has set December 22 for the inaugural Ebenezer Budding Gospel Music Awards (EBGOMA) ceremony.

The awards, according to Chivaviro, will focus on awarding unheralded musicians and at the same time giving a platform to young people in music.

“This is something that has always been on my heart ever since we recorded the song Ebenezer with my friends.

“The awards and talent scouting stand to be our mega reality and kind gesture from me and the family to the very music community that shaped us until today. “We are doing this to prop up a few artistes so that they quickly get recognized in the industry after we help them through our platform,” said Chivaviro.

“We have slated our first ceremony on December 22 with both the awards and the Ebenezer Gospel Talent Scouting continuing annually.

“Plans are already on course to deliver the first ever EBGOMA event where we will launch our mission and vision,” he said.

He said he is working with renowned gospel musicians .

“Our panel of judges will be made up of experienced gospel artistes and producers who will nurture the budding musicians.

“23 categories will form the base of the awards and we are leaving no artiste behind, focusing mainly on those who lack funds or continued air play,” he added.

Chivaviro, who is now based in the US, feels artistes should do more amongst themselves.

“As artistes we have to find common ground and look out for each other as keepers when one’s career is germinating or requires a hand.

“Through the awards, our winners will go through a mentorship programme where they will have first hand tutorials from established musicians,” he said.