It was a night of glitz, glamour, and heartfelt appreciation as the inaugural Victorian Awards honoured outstanding individuals and organizations across various sectors in Victoria Falls.

From business, fashion, sports, and agriculture to community work, tourism and hospitality, health and fitness, over a hundred residents were recognized for their contributions during the prestigious ceremony held on 6 April at Pietel Retreat Centre.

In an exclusive interview with My Kasi Magazine ahead of the event, one of the organisers, Blessed Mathe shared their vision:

“The Victorian Awards is an initiative to celebrate exceptional talent and achievements in Victoria Falls by recognising individuals who have made an impact in various sectors of our community.

It’s a night of glamour and celebration, and also one of networking. As organisers, we deeply appreciate everyone who supported us—from the media, sponsors, nominees, to the voters,”

Dignitaries in attendance included local Victoria Falls councillors, some of whom also contributed as sponsors of the event.

A diverse array of winners were recognised across multiple categories. Highlights included:

• Resident of the Year – Blessing Munyenyiwa
• Vendor of the Year – Khumbulani Mpofu
• Taxi Operator of the Year – Perfect Taxis
• Tour Operator of the Year – Wild Horizons

The evening also showcased top local entertainment, with performances by Tony Witness, DJ Fatso, Raaz Mahlazi, Muffia King, Soul Prince, Triple Greats, Obert Mpofu, and Qeqeshiwe, who lit up the stage and kept the guests asking for more.

Official Winners List

Community & Social Impact

• Resident of the Year – Blessing Munyenyiwa
• Vendor of the Year – Khumbulani Mpofu
• Hustler of the Year – Blessing Muruvi (Daddy Racks)

Business Category

• Young Entrepreneur of the Year – Ian Chawarika
• Business Woman of the Year – Noeline Dube
• Business Man of the Year – Ozius Marange
• Employer of the Year – Wild Horizons
• Bus Operator of the Year – Extra City
• Taxi Operator of the Year – Perfect Taxis
• Hardware Store of the Year – Electrosales Hardware
• Constructor of the Year – Kiggen Construction

Tourism & Hospitality

• Tour Operator of the Year – Wild Horizons
• Hotel of the Year – Elephant Hills Hotel
• Lodge of the Year – Victoria Falls River Lodge
• Restaurant of the Year – Lookout Café
• Chef of the Year – Brighton Nekatambe
• Tour Guide of the Year – Gugulethu Nkomo

Agriculture

• Young Farmer of the Year – Antony Vheremu
• Woman Farmer of the Year – Juliet Maseko
• Man Farmer of the Year – Shadreck Mabuza
• Fruit & Veg Vendor of the Year – Victoria Falls Fruit & Veg

Sports

• Sports Woman of the Year – Naume Chisango
• Sports Man of the Year – Denzel Ngavi
• Sports Administrator of the Year – McMillan “Kima” Sibanda
• Coach of the Year – Irene Mwanza
• Sports Team of the Year – Crocs Volleyball Club
• Social Sports Team of the Year – ZRP Tigers

Music & Entertainment

• Newcomer of the Year – Cypho
• Music Producer of the Year – DJ Ace Kater
• DJ of the Year – DJ Fatso
• Male Artist of the Year – Andrea the Vocalist
• Female Artist of the Year – Just Leo
• MC of the Year – Sharks Nova
• African Band of the Year – Flying Bantu

Media & Photography

• Photographer of the Year – Panashe Sibalo
• Videographer of the Year – Golden Touch
• Graphic Designer of the Year – Dave Harrison
• Sound Engineer of the Year – Archford Deresh

Events & Catering

• Event Decor of the Year – Rosma Events
• Catering of the Year – The Corner House
• Cake Baker of the Year – Shiela Nyikadzino

Visual, Performing & Literary Arts

• Sketch/Paint Artist of the Year – Nigel Dube
• African Dance Group of the Year – Imvimbi Arts
• Poet of the Year – Obert Dube
• Author of the Year – Tinotenda Rukanzakanza
• Stone/Wood Sculptor of the Year – Vusumuzi Ngwenya

Health, Fitness & Wellness

• Pharmacy of the Year – Medmint Pharmacy
• Gym of the Year – Victoria Falls Boxing Academy
• Gym Instructor of the Year – Mabasa Mutukwa
• Wellness Spa of the Year – Victoria Falls Safari Spa

Beauty & Fashion

• Female Model of the Year – Ruvimbo Bwanya
• Male Model of the Year – Future Nyoni
• Hair Stylist of the Year – Moreblessing Ncube
• Barber of the Year – Leo Luphahla
• Nail Artist of the Year – Nokuthabo “Nonnie” Nyathi
• Make-Up Artist of the Year – Amanda Ngwenya
• Fashion Designer of the Year – Tocar Designs
• Tailor of the Year – Mrs Sithole
• Boutique of the Year – Simply Exquisite

Honorary Awards

• Lifetime Impact Award (Woman) – Mrs. Cynthia Khumalo
• Lifetime Impact Award (Man) – Mr. Africa Jubane
• Social Impact Award – Children in the Wilderness Trust
• Environmental Impact Award – Pristine Victoria Falls Society