Zodiak’s Kazako hails Malawi talent show E-Wallet for enhancing youth potential

Zodiak Broadcasting Station (ZBS) managing director Gospel Kazako has commended E-Wallet, Malawi’s music sole talent search show; saying is one of the projects which seek to enhance the youth potential. [caption id="attachment_64721" align="alignright" width="444"] Kazako : E-Wallet is real deal for unearthing talent in Malawi[/caption] Kazako, a role model to many Malawian youth for his humble beginning as a poet, broadcaster and now boss for Zodiak as well as an entrepreneur, said the country’s youth need to be empowered through initiatives that promote their self-reliance. “When we help young people how to fish we are giving them necessary skills for their survival and independency,” said Kazako as quoted by The Nation newspaper on Friday. E-Wallet partnered with Zodiak Television for this year’s event which was won by Chilomoni resident, 20-year-old Kelvin Zalimba. He received a car prize Nissan Tiida. E-Wallet is modelled on British X-Factor or Pop Idol of United States. Chairperson for E-Wallet, Felix Njawala, said he is satisfied that the competition is fulfilling young people’s development. “As a brand, we are happy to help young people getting exposure and career opportunities. We trust that young people can make it if given necessary support especially when the corporate world can come in to support initiatives such as E-Wallet,” said Njawala. He added that effective arts programmes can help to reduce young people’s vulnerability and unemployment. Njawala appeals for corporate support towards the local music competition, which seeks to unearth talent, saying E-Wallet is a local brand which is proudly owned by a Malawian. Meanwhile, E-Wallet winner Kelvin told The Nation that if given the necessary support, arts can have a direct bearing on the social and economic development of the country. “I did not dream to have a car at the age of 20. But because I have talent, look at me now, I am driving a Nissan Tiida which I have won in E-Wallet. My life and status is not the same. This just underscores the importance and power of arts which can turn around the social and economic tables of Malawians,” he said. He attributes his triumph to hard work, eagerness to learn and fear of the Lord. “I learnt a lot through the competition. Everyone, including my parents and fans, played a role for my success. I owe it to them,” the paper quotes the new singing star. However, he admitted that it was not an easy ride for him to win the E-Wallet, saying he faced a stiff competition from Eunice Mhango, Shanice Tandwe, Sigele Akimu and Jeremiah Chikhwaza. Kelvin also praised the E-Wallet judges Marvin Hanke, Rudo Chakwera and Dumisani Mfune for their role throughout the competition.