Female master of ceremonies (MCs) are steadily transforming the country’s entertainment landscape, breaking long-standing gender norms in music, lifestyle and cultural events. Once dominated by men, event hosting is now witnessing young female voices bringing confidence, creativity and bold personalities to performance spaces. For many of these women, the journey has not been easy, but their determination is ushering in a new era for the country’s entertainment industry.
“Wendy’s confidence and art inspired me. She was not only a star but a shining star,” she said. Mponda’s path began through dancing and fashion.
However, her defining moment came on 31 December 2023 when she hosted the Castel Music Festival. “That day I knew this was not just about hosting. It was about giving people something to carry inside after the event,” she said.
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Mponda said her unique style is rooted in energy, stage presence and fashion. “I do not just announce performers, I carry the stage on my shoulder,” she said. However, it has not been all rosy as she has faced harassment from some audiences and criticism from people who felt her energetic style.
“My focus is to give people an experience. I hear their advice, but I do not allow it to shrink who I am,” she added. Another star Priscilla Kayira said that her journey began with a love for public speaking nurtured from childhood.
While in university, she served as entertainment director. However, her breakthrough came when artists began recognising her work and consistently booked her. “That is when I realised I could actually succeed,” she said.
“There are men in the industry who behave as though they are more superior. Some even snatch gigs or expect you to give in to sexual favours to secure opportunities,” she said.
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