By MKHOKHELI ZIBENGWA
At 27, Sinobuhle “Mapitsi” Dube has become a name synonymous with energy, precision, and cultural pride in Zimbabwe’s performing arts scene. From the streets of Nkulumane to her standout performance at Expo Osaka 2025 in Japan, her journey has been fueled by determination, talent, and an unwavering love for traditional dance.
A key member of the BOLAMBA Culture Birds, Mapitsi has mastered a wide spectrum of Zimbabwean dance styles — Setapa, Tsutsube, Mhande, Muchongoyo, Mbakumba, Jerusalema Mbende, and Isitshikitsha. But beyond technical skill, what sets her apart is her presence on stage: a confident, magnetic energy that transforms every movement into a story.
In an interview, Mapitsi told BANO NEWS that:
“My journey began in 2016 when I first discovered dance, and I have since dedicated myself to mastering a wide range of traditional styles.Every performance reflects my skill, storytelling ability, and commitment to preserving Zimbabwean cultural heritage," she said.
Her performance at Expo Osaka 2025 marked a defining moment in her career. On an international stage, Mapitsi showcased Zimbabwean dance to audiences experiencing it for the first time, and her artistry left a lasting impression. The experience reinforced her belief in the power of African dance.
Her path, however, has not been without challenges. Opportunities are often limited, work unpredictable, and the life of a young creative comes with constant uncertainty. Yet Mapitsi persists.
“Being a creative, especially a female creative, is not as easy as people think. It requires patience, discipline, and respect for your craft,” she said.
Mapitsi is also a singer, adding another layer to her artistry. Her collaborations with Victory Siyanqoba, initially directed by the late Desire Moyo and now under Tilbert Nkosi, have given her the chance to blend performance, rhythm, and storytelling in new ways, further refining her craft.
Looking ahead, Mapitsi hopes to continue performing, mentoring, and inspiring, particularly young women, to embrace their talents and chase their dreams.
“My art is not just a job or a talent,” she said, it is a tool I use to inspire young performers, particularly women, to pursue their passions. Passion, perseverance, and dedication can carve a name in Zimbabwe’s cultural landscape," she added
Mapitsi’s journey is still unfolding, but her story is one of dedication, creativity, and resilience, a journey that continues to inspire and captivate, one performance at a time.
