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My name is Plot Mhako and I am the visionary behind Jibilika. The genesis of this endeavor traces back to two pivotal moments in my life: my involvement with the Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA) in 1999 and the profound impact of the movie "You Got Served". Inspired by these experiences, I embarked on the journey to create JIBILIKA.
Entering the industry in March 2007 as a novice, bereft of experience or formal training, I was fueled by boundless passion and determination. However, navigating the intricacies of the creative sphere proved to be an arduous task. I had to sell my nearly completed house to finance the first edition of the festival.
Financial success eluded both myself and my colleagues, plunging us into significant debt and countless setbacks. "You will all remember Zimbabwe between 2007 and 2009". Despite the hardships, the journey was a tumultuous roller-coaster of emotions.
From moments of exhilaration hosting JIBILIKA events to days cloaked in despair, seeking refuge under blankets and switching off my phone to evade creditors, I experienced it all. Over the past 17 years, I've forged invaluable friendships, albeit enduring losses along the way. Together, we orchestrated Zimbabwe's largest dance and youth culture festival, traversing every corner of the nation to unearth fresh talent.
At times, I found myself disillusioned and disheartened, distancing myself from JIBILIKA. However, upon reflection, I realized the profound impact it had on my life. Despite the challenges, JIBILIKA afforded me opportunities beyond my wildest dreams - from my first flights to Europe, the USA, and across Africa, to unlocking new realms of imagination and possibility.
Jibilika evolved into a social enterprise impacting thousands of youths in schools and communities with our Step Up 2 HIV program.
Every initiative I pursue today is rooted in the seeds sown by JIBILIKA. I am forever grateful to every team member, sponsor, volunteer, and media practitioner who fueled this creative revolution.
As we celebrate the return of the Jibilika Festival after a three-year hiatus, stay tuned for announcements regarding dates, venue, and a call for artists to partake in this momentous event. Furthermore, my debut book, detailing my full journey with JIBILIKA, is set to be released later this year.
