Ammara aims high
AMMARA Brown is a multi-talented artiste. She is a musician, actress, choreographer, clothing designer, writer, you name it. Recently, she surprised many with a flawless exhibition when she featured as a presenter at the glamorous 2021 edition of the National Arts Merit Awards (Nama).
The award-winning artiste is also currently on television as one of the judges in the second season of the “Old Mutual Amazing Voices”.
This is a Pan-African singing competition that is televised in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Kenya and Nigeria. Our reporter Brighton Zhawi last week caught up with Ammara — daughter of the late great musician Andy Brown — for an interview.
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Q: You were composed as a presenter at the Nama Legends at 40 Awards ceremony. How was the experience?
A: It was challenging and exciting all
at once. I really believe that growth in all aspects of my craft is important. Above that, the honour of hosting Nama Legends was everything.
Q: Can you tell us about your acting career?
A: I did a few seasons in “Muzita Rababa”. It was great exploring a different personality. I have always looked at art as a lens through which to “innerstand” humans.
My first paying professional job was at the age of nine. I featured alongside Sekuru Tuku (late Oliver Mtukudzi) in an advert.
However, I somehow developed a fear of cameras as I grew. Fortunately, I was able to conquer it as my career progressed.
I got two acting awards later and (I am) looking forward to more. Q: Ammara is into music, acting, dancing and presenting. What other talents does she have?
A: I am also a composer, copywriter, producer of many variations, clothing designer, and I find cooking to be therapeutic. I am a creative, divinely!
Q: Why do you perform barefooted?
A: My higher spirit commands my bare feet, as my craft is sacred.
Q: Do you have any new project(s) ready for your fans?
A: Something huge is coming, musically.
On the television front, I will be on your screens throughout the continent beginning Sunday.
I will be part of the programme “Old Mutual Amazing Voices”.
Q: Covid-19 has hit the creative sector hard since March last year. What has kept you going in this difficult time?
A: It is ironic, but 2020 was my favourite year in life thus far. I got to spend quality time with myself and my loved ones, while I worked when I felt like it.
Basically, my version of heaven.
Q: As a role model, what is your message to young girls that look up to you?
A: Figure out what you want to do and give it 100 percent.
Whether you have professional or marital aspirations, please remember that both are a journey not a destination.
Q: Your song “Tichichema” challenges all forms of abuse – physical, emotional or mental. Do you think as a society we are making strides in combating abuse?
A: I would say we are at the beginning of a truly transformative journey, so yes.