I think we can all agree this year has been challenging, so 2021 has got to be better, right? We asked some of Tanzania’s top talent about what they hope the new year will bring for themselves and the wider world.
Hasheem Thabeet
Professional basketball player, currently with Hsinchu JKO Lioneers in the Taiwanese P League
“Looking at how things are going, I believe it’s only right to be optimistic about the future. The pandemic has affected different regions in different ways, it’s going to take a lot of resilience and patience because of the inconsistency in our plans and schedules. We need to spend as much time as we can preparing and staying ready to execute any given opportunity. By allowing the time to focus on what matters, you are mentally bracing yourself for a successful future.”
image courtesy of Hasheem Thabeet
Evans Bukuku
Stand-up comedian, radio and TV personality and Punchline Africa event host
“In a fast paced and ever-changing world that continues to throw you curveballs at every opportunity, find time to focus and trust in your inner voice. You will find your way home. Most importantly, keep learning, keep growing and keep searching... for you.
“Curiosity leads you up certain paths in life, but only passion can take you all the way.”
Given Edward
Social entrepreneur, CEO of Mtabe Innovations and creator of the MyElimu education platform
“This period is summed up best by something [US author] Paul Harvey said: “At times like these it’s important to remember that there have always been times like these.”
“On the microscopic level, Covid and 2020 seem like new, strange times. But on a macro level, historically every generation has faced a challenge that’s different from their immediate normal. And as a human race, we’ve pulled through in every single one of those moments. We learned and moved forward better with lessons for future generations to live better. I believe 2020 has given us such an opportunity again. We got this.”
Rebecca Yeong Ae Corey
Director of Nafasi Arts Space, Dar es Salaam
“My hope is that 2021 will be a year of healing, connection, and compassion for others. Creating and appreciating art – making a home for it in our lives and spaces – is a practice I think many people came to enjoy more this year because they had time for it. I hope that will continue and grow, as creativity has endless potential for cultivating growth and emotional awareness!”
Mimi Mars
MC, TV host and singer
I am looking forward to playing more shows and live concerts. It was great to be among the artists involved in the parties for this year’s election campaign, but I would like to see more artists partner with the government for major concerts and events throughout the year.
Isack Abeneko
Contemporary performer, singer, musician and choreographer
Fahad Awadh
Entrepreneur, founder of YYTZ Agro-Processing
“We have survived a tumultuous past year; the new year brings with it hope. As I reflect on the coming year, I am truly grateful for all of Allah’s blessings. I am looking forward to new challenges and opportunities as we seek to create a better future. That future is Africa.”
Sandra A. Mushi
Author and founder and lead interior architecture designer at Creative Studios Ltd
“I want 2021 to be the year where a positive narrative of Africa is created. Yes, we still face challenges, but there are so many opportunities that can alter Africa’s route. For one we need to trade among ourselves and celebrate ourselves as Africans as this continent has so much to give.”
Grace Matata
Tanzanian afro-soul singer – her latest EP, Rebirth, is available now online
“I would love to see more healing for myself next year. 2020 was a year of hard lessons. So much has happened and so much has changed. I have been unlearning and re-learning so much. It feels like it has been survival mode all year. I want 2021 to be less about surviving and more about thriving.”
Albany James
A serial entrepreneur entrepreneur helping push Tanzania start-up ecosystem forward. Among his latest projects is takeaway and grocery delivery app Foodsasa, of which he is co-founder.
“I hope the covid vaccines prove to be effective and without contraindications. Once this is in place this pandemic should be behind us and the world will open up fully for business and families to travel and work together.”
Fred Uisso
International award-winning chef, owner of Afrikado restaurant, host of TV cookery show Masapta Sapta and Twiga food columnist
“I pray to see 2021 with tourists flooding all across our country and enjoying our local cuisine. Our government has made the streets calm and friendly. Let’s use the opportunity for the economic growth of our families and the nation.”
