Herald ReporterThe Government has joined forces with Jitsugyo no Nihon Sha Co. Ltd, Zaif INO and Kaika Financial Holdings Co. Ltd to launch an international cultural exchange project titled ‘Become a Manga Artist in Japan’.This initiative, themed “Bringing Zimbabwe’s Talent to Japan”, aims to uncover and nurture the diverse talents of Zimbabwean youth passionate about Japanese manga and anime culture.Manga are comics or graphic novels originating from Japan.
The project responds to the growing influence of Japanese anime and manga among Zimbabwe’s youth, providing an opportunity for aspiring creators to showcase their work in Japan’s thriving manga market.With events like “JAPANDAY” and “Otakukon” regularly drawing hundreds to over a thousand participants, the interest in Japanese culture in Zimbabwe is unmistakable.This initiative also seeks to empower young Zimbabwean manga artists by introducing their works to Japanese audiences, offering pathways for publication and promotion.Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Japan, Stewart Nyakotyo, said the exchange is expected to benefit Zimbabwe and its arts industry.“Young people in Zimbabwe continue to believe in the power of creativity, even in difficult environments,” said Ambassador Nyakotyo.“This project is an opportunity for them to share their stories with the world, and I believe it will serve as a bridge to connect us with the people of Japan.”President and CEO of Jitsugyo no Nihonsha, Yuichi Iwano, said such collaborations will ensure the continuity of both countries’ cultures.“Publishing is a job that delivers voices beyond countries and languages. Zimbabwean manga artists will be able to write stories in their own words and encounter Japanese readers,” said Yuichi..“I believe that such encounters will foster the culture of the future.”The vision is to create a model for “global cultural dissemination” within the publishing industry, allowing Zimbabwean narratives, reflecting their society, culture and dreams, to resonate with Japanese readers.Key stakeholders in this initiative include the Zimbabwe Embassy in Japan, Jitsugyo no Nihon Sha Co. Ltd, Zaif INO, Kaika Financial Holdings Co.
Ltd, the Embassy of Japan in Zimbabwe, and local Zimbabwean writers.Together, they aim to create a sustainable ecosystem for artistic growth, leveraging digital technology and blockchain to enhance transparency and support for creators.This project not only promises to enrich the cultural exchange between Zimbabwe and Japan but also aspires to empower young people, providing them with opportunities for personal and professional growth in the global arena of manga and anime.Share on FacebookPost on XFollow usSave
Originally published on Zimbabwe Herald
Source: Herald_Com
