THE countdown to the National Arts Merit Awards has taken a stylish turn following the official unveiling of this year’s red-carpet hosts. It is a bold, all-women-led line-up that signals a renewed focus on fashion, professionalism and purpose. For NAMA24, the red carpet will not merely be a runway of cameras and couture, it will be a statement space curated and commanded by women at the top of their game.
Fashion icon Hollywood Lee, Bulawayo-based media personality Taboka, and Eugene from Power FM, will host the red carpet, bringing together fashion authority, regional media influence and broadcast experience. The trio’s appointment has already generated excitement within creative circles, with many viewing it as a progressive step towards elevating the awards’ overall presentation. Organisers say the move reflects the evolving identity of NAMA, one that is increasingly global in outlook while remaining grounded in local culture.
The red carpet, often criticised in previous years for lacking structure, is now being repositioned as a disciplined, intentional platform that reflects the maturity of Zimbabwe’s arts industry. Hollywood Lee, widely respected for shaping fashion narratives both on and off the runway, said it was both exciting and symbolic. “We are extremely excited about this opportunity,” said Lee.
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“This is girl power in action. We are bringing our A game, not just in terms of fashion, but in how we carry the conversations, how we engage artists, and how we present Zimbabwe to the world.” She added that the trio has been working closely to ensure chemistry, clarity of roles, and a shared vision. “People often think hosting the red carpet is just about asking who someone is wearing,” she said.
“But it’s bigger than that. It’s about confidence, timing, respect, and understanding the industry. “We want the red carpet to feel organised, aspirational, and world-class.”
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