Almasi Collaborative Arts Announces the 2026 Edition of Africa Voices Now!

 Almasi Collaborative Arts, Zimbabwe’s leading dramatic arts organisation - today announced the 2026 edition of Africa Voices Now!, its annual festival of new African plays, returning to the Jasen Mphepo Little Theatre in Harare from 17 October to 6 November 2026.

This year’s festival will present three brand new Zimbabwean plays in rotation, offering audiences a first look at original work that will undoubtedly become part of the year’s wider cultural conversation.

This year’s play lineup includes; 30 Acres by our 2026 NAMA Award-winning playwright Tatenda Mutyambizi, Shards by Cynthia Marangwanda, and Quixotic by Tawanda Vombo. Together, the three works offer a vivid and wide-ranging portrait of contemporary Zimbabwean life from land, legacy, existential crisis and youth culture.

Built over more than 14 years of intentional and rigorous developmental work, Almasi Collaborative Arts has become one of the clearest arguments for why Zimbabwe’s leading dramatic arts deserve structural support. Its work has focused on professionalising the sector through training, mentorship, global access, and meaningful artistic opportunity.

Co-founded in 2011 by Zimbabwean-American actress and playwright Danai Gurira, the organisation has trained more than 250 African artists, developed 31 new African plays, facilitated international fellowships and Masters Degree pathways for Zimbabwean artists, and created year-round artistic  employment for performers, writers, technicians, and crew.

Almasi’s ethos is built around the Zimbabwean philosophy of Kudzidza Hakuperi - learning never ends, and through training with the top artists from around the globe and intensive development, Almasi seeks to “Bring the African narrative to the Global Stage."  African Voices Now is a crucial component of that ambition. The structure Almasi has built enables the steady growth of prestigious, original Zimbabwean and continental African storytelling, helping to build a sustainable local entertainment sector.  

The 2026 announcement follows the breakthrough public success of the inaugural Africa Voices Now! festival in 2025, which brought Almasi’s long-standing developmental work into the public eye and earned two prestigious National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA): Outstanding Director for Leonard Matsa’s direction of Can We Talk? By NAMA Award-winning poet Batsirai Chigama and Outstanding Playwright for Tatenda Mutyambizi’s These Humans Are Sick. The first edition of the festival also demonstrated real audience demand, with sold-out  performances at the 60-seat Jasen Mphepo Little Theatre and an additional showing of Can We Talk? added to meet demand. Can We Talk? is now in planning for a New York production at the prestigious Public Theatre.

The Shrinking Attention Span: How Social Media Is Affecting Today’s Youth

 In today’s digital world, social media has become an important part of everyday life for millions of young people. Platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook provide entertainment, information, and connection. However, constant exposure to fast-moving content may also be contributing to a growing difficulty among young people to maintain attention for longer periods.

One major factor is the popularity of short-form content. Videos lasting a few seconds or minutes are designed to deliver entertainment almost instantly. Users can quickly swipe from one video to another, constantly receiving something new. Over time, this habit can make slower activities such as reading books, studying, or listening to lengthy discussions feel less stimulating.

Constant notifications can also interrupt concentration. Messages, likes, comments, and updates create frequent distractions, encouraging users to check their phones even when they are engaged in other activities. The result can be a pattern of repeatedly switching attention rather than focusing deeply on one task.

Social media platforms are also designed to keep users engaged. Algorithms study what people watch and interact with, then provide more content that matches their interests. This personalized stream can make it difficult for users to stop scrolling, particularly when there is always another entertaining post waiting.

However, social media itself is not necessarily the enemy. It can provide valuable educational resources, creative opportunities, news, and communities. The challenge is balance.

Young people can strengthen their concentration by taking regular screen breaks, turning off unnecessary notifications, spending time reading, exercising, engaging in hobbies, and creating periods of uninterrupted study or work.

Ultimately, technology should remain a tool rather than becoming the center of attention. Learning to control screen time and deliberately practice sustained focus can help today’s youth enjoy the benefits of social media without allowing endless scrolling to control their ability to concentrate.

Meet Talented Kenyan Model Tabby Valerian: A Rising Talent Balancing Education and Modeling

 Tabby Valerian is a promising young creative from Nairobi whose passion for modeling, acting, and drawing is shaping her journey toward a future in the creative industry. With a natural desire for self-expression, Tabby uses her talents to communicate confidence, creativity, and individuality while inspiring others to embrace who they are.

One of her greatest passions is modeling, an art form that gives her the freedom to express herself and explore different sides of her personality. Through fashion, photography, and creative projects, Tabby hopes to develop her skills, gain valuable experience, and make a positive impact in an industry that continues to provide opportunities for young Kenyan talent.

Beyond modeling, Tabby enjoys acting and drawing, hobbies that allow her to explore storytelling and creativity from different perspectives. These interests complement her modeling journey and give her a broader understanding of artistic expression.

Tabby is also a student at Zetech University, where she is committed to pursuing her education while nurturing her ambitions in modeling. Balancing academics with a growing creative career requires discipline, time management, and determination, qualities she is developing as she works toward achieving both academic and professional success.

Her long-term dream is to build her own brand and create a successful career from her talents. Tabby envisions a future where her creativity can open doors, connect her with inspiring people, and create opportunities for personal and professional growth.

As she continues learning, modeling, acting, and developing her creative identity, Tabby Valerian represents a generation of young Kenyan women determined to pursue their passions while building meaningful futures. With ambition, consistency, and confidence, she hopes to turn her talents into a powerful brand and thrive in Kenya’s evolving creative industry.

Behind the Brush: The Challenges Makeup Artists Face in Kenya

 Kenya’s beauty and fashion industry continues to grow, creating exciting opportunities for makeup artists across weddings, photography, film, television, music, fashion shows, events, and social media. However, behind the glamorous transformations and flawless photographs, many makeup artists face challenges that can make building a sustainable career difficult.

One of the biggest challenges is inconsistent income. Many makeup artists work on a freelance basis, meaning bookings can fluctuate from month to month. Weddings, graduations, photoshoots, and major events may bring busy periods, followed by quieter seasons. This makes financial planning and business growth challenging.

Competition is another major issue. With more people entering the beauty industry, artists must constantly improve their skills and develop a recognizable style. Social media has also raised expectations, with clients often comparing local artists to international beauty creators and expecting complex looks at affordable prices.

The cost of professional products and equipment can also be a significant burden. High-quality foundations, brushes, palettes, skincare products, lighting equipment, and sanitation supplies can be expensive. Imported beauty products may become even more costly because of shipping expenses, taxes, and fluctuations in currency exchange rates.

Makeup artists also sometimes struggle with clients who undervalue their work. Some customers may negotiate heavily or fail to understand that professional makeup involves more than simply applying cosmetics. Artists invest in training, products, equipment, time, transportation, and continuous practice.

Another challenge is late payments and cancellations. Without clear contracts or booking policies, artists can lose valuable time and money when clients cancel at the last minute or delay payment.

Despite these obstacles, Kenyan makeup artists are increasingly using TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and other digital platforms to showcase their portfolios and attract new clients. Personal branding, networking, professional photography, and strong customer service are becoming just as important as technical makeup skills.

The future of Kenya’s makeup industry remains promising. With better business practices, affordable training, stronger industry networks, and greater appreciation for professional beauty services, makeup artists can turn their creativity into sustainable careers. Their brushes may create beauty, but behind every successful artist is dedication, resilience, and an entrepreneurial spirit.

Meet Verahh: A Rising Style and Fashion Enthusiast In Kenya

 Verahh is a vibrant style and fashion enthusiast and an aspiring model making her mark with her unique personality, creativity, and passion for self-expression. Based between Nairobi and Bondo, she brings together the energy of the city and the beauty of her roots, creating a distinctive identity that continues to evolve.

With a keen eye for fashion, Verahh enjoys experimenting with different looks, trends, and styles that allow her personality to shine. Her love for fashion has inspired her ambition to pursue modeling and explore opportunities within the creative and entertainment industries. She believes that style is more than just clothing it is a powerful form of confidence, individuality, and storytelling.

Beyond fashion and modeling, Verahh is a lover of travel and enjoys discovering new places, meeting different people, and experiencing new cultures. She also has a passion for cooking and finds joy in exploring different foods and preparing delicious meals.

Verahh is also building her presence as a digital creator on TikTok, where she shares her personality, lifestyle, fashion interests, and creative content with her growing audience. Through social media, she hopes to inspire others to embrace their individuality, explore their creativity, and confidently express themselves.

With her passion, ambition, and growing digital presence, Verahh is a young creative to watch. As she continues developing her modeling journey and content creation career, she is poised to make an exciting impact in Nairobi's fashion and digital creative scene.

From Streets to Spotlight: Why Skating Is Taking Over Nairobi

 Skating is steadily becoming one of the most exciting and visible recreational sports in Nairobi. Once seen mainly as a pastime for a small group of enthusiasts, skating is now attracting children, teenagers, young adults, and even older residents looking for a fun way to stay active.

One major reason for its growing popularity is accessibility. Unlike some sports that require expensive equipment or specialized facilities, beginners can start skating with a pair of skates and basic protective gear. Nairobi’s parks, open spaces, estates, and relatively quiet roads provide opportunities for skaters to practice, socialize, and develop their skills.

Social media has also played an important role in popularizing skating. Nairobi’s young skaters regularly share videos and photographs of their tricks, routines, and skating sessions online. These posts showcase skating as more than exercise—it is also a lifestyle, a form of self-expression, and a creative activity.

Another attraction is fitness. Skating provides an enjoyable full-body workout that can improve balance, coordination, endurance, and muscle strength. For people who find traditional gym workouts repetitive, skating offers a more entertaining alternative while still keeping the body active.

The social aspect is equally important. Skating groups and communities give enthusiasts an opportunity to meet new people, learn from experienced skaters, and participate in group sessions and events. This sense of community is helping the sport grow organically across Nairobi.

Skating also offers opportunities for creativity. From fashion and music to dance-inspired routines and impressive tricks, skaters can develop their own unique styles. This has made the sport particularly appealing to Nairobi’s vibrant youth and creative community.

As interest continues to grow, skating could become an increasingly recognized sporting and recreational activity in the city. With more safe skating spaces, organized events, training programs, and community support, Nairobi has the potential to develop a strong skating culture that combines fitness, friendship, creativity, and entertainment.

Meet BeaShawrie: A Style Enthusiast from Thika with a Passion for Dance

 

BeaShawrie is a vibrant young creative from Thika whose love for fashion and dancing continues to inspire those around her. Known for her eye for style and confident personality, she has developed a unique sense of fashion that reflects both elegance and modern street culture. Whether she is putting together a casual everyday outfit or dressing up for a special occasion, BeaShawrie enjoys expressing herself through clothing and personal styling.

Her passion for fashion goes beyond simply wearing trendy outfits. She is a true style enthusiast who pays attention to colors, accessories, and the small details that make every look stand out. Friends and followers admire her ability to mix comfort with creativity, creating outfits that are both fashionable and authentic to her personality.

In addition to her love for style, BeaShawrie has a deep passion for dancing. Dancing allows her to express her energy, confidence, and joy in a way that words cannot. From trending dance challenges to freestyle sessions, she enjoys moving to music and sharing positive vibes with others. Her enthusiasm for dance complements her fashion sense perfectly, as both passions are rooted in self-expression and creativity.

As a proud Thika-based creative, BeaShawrie represents the growing generation of young Kenyan talents who are using fashion and dance to build their identity and connect with others. With her passion, confidence, and artistic spirit, she continues to shine as a stylish and energetic personality worth watching.

Meet Pintah 254: A Bold Voice Shaping Nairobi’s Music Scene

 Pintah 254 is an emerging Recording and Performing Artist, singer, rapper, and songwriter based in Nairobi, Kenya, whose creativity reflects the energy, diversity, and vibrant culture of the city. With a passion for music and a distinctive artistic identity, Pintah 254 is steadily carving out her own space in Kenya’s competitive entertainment industry.

As both a singer and rapper, Pintah 254 brings versatility to her music, allowing her to explore different sounds, lyrical styles, and moods. Her ability to combine singing with rap gives her performances a dynamic quality, while her songwriting provides an opportunity to express her personality, experiences, and creative perspective through music.

Among her songs is “Anaconda,” a track that showcases her confident artistic approach and ability to command attention. The song forms part of her growing catalogue as she continues to introduce audiences to her sound and musical personality.

Another favourite among listeners is “Ukinipigia,” a song that further highlights Pintah 254’s versatility and appeal. The track has helped strengthen her connection with audiences who appreciate her contemporary approach to music and her ability to create songs that are both engaging and memorable.

Beyond recording, Pintah 254 is also passionate about performing. Her presence on stage allows her to connect directly with audiences and bring the energy of her music to life. As she continues developing her craft, she represents a new generation of Kenyan artists determined to make their voices heard.

With ambition, creativity, and a growing body of work, Pintah 254 is an artist worth watching. Her journey is only beginning, and her evolving sound could see her reach audiences far beyond Nairobi and Kenya.