Helping to discover and launch new talent in the world of entertainment has been both a career mission and a pleasure for Barney Mpariwa, who believes Zimbabwe has a rich seam of talent within its population.
He is the founder and executive director of the StarBrite talent show, which first saw the light in 1990 and has been making a mark on the entertainment industry ever since.
Barney joined ZBC in 1986 and has worked in television and radio production. The StarBrite initiative has been a success story, yielding performers like Prudence Katomeni-Mbofana, Tendai Chidarikire, Rutendo Machiridza, Wilom Tight, and Bryan K.
“I feel the show plays an important role in finding talent and then grooming and launching quality artists into the entertainment industry,” he said.
“It’s helping to build up succeeding generations of artists to follow the leaders like Oliver Mtukudzi and Thomas Mapfumo.”
StarBrite is now in its ninth season on Ztv, which is also available on DStv’s channel 280.
“The show has been improving over the years and, with the right support, will grow bigger, better and even more successful,” he said.
Barney’s advice to people who feel they have a talent and would like to have it platformed is simple: take a chance and make use of platforms like StarBrite. It could be the difference between staying hidden away or being discovered and launching a career in entertainment.”
He comes from a large family, the youngest of 10 children. Now married, he and his wife have two children, with one more to join them soon.
DStv plays a significant role in his life, and he gains much enjoyment from the variety of content.
“I am excited to be a part of the DStv Shark tribe. There is never a dull moment, because there is something for everyone. We have much arguing over what to watch together. And, of course, the DStv App enables me to watch my favourite shows on the go,” he said.
“I am a sports fan who enjoys athletics, rugby, tennis and most especially soccer. Other channels my family enjoys are Zee World, National Geographic and channels with all the exciting series. And definitely we watch and enjoy talent shows like X Factor, Idols and the ‘got talent’ series.”
Heavily committed to StarBrite, he values being able to save time.
He said: The DStv App provides convenience by enabling me to check my balance, manage my account and stay connected. DStv gives me access to choice and value for money.”
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