Upcoming Zim dancehall starlet, Likkle Art, has landed an academic scholarship a few weeks after appearing in a music video released by Chillspot Records.
Associated Foods Zimbabwe, the manufactures of Mamas’ and Farmgold Brands, offered the 15-year-old musician a one-year academic scholarship where they will pay for his education.
Likkle Art, real name Darrel Magachani Furai, is currently in form 2 at Budiriro High School. He landed the scholarship after the manufacturer was impressed by the positive impact he is making on ghetto youths through his songs.
The scholarship is contingent on him continuing to make a positive impact on the youths, which is why the company opted for an initial one year period. Likkle Art will have his school fees and other amenities paid for by AFZ including enrolling at a boarding school of his choice.
Despite the hype, the dancehall starlet is yet to release an album. He attracted the attention of AFZ after he featured on a video which was released by famed Zim dancehall powerhouse, Chillspot Records.
Speaking on the academic scholarship for the Zim dancehall starlet, AFZ Chief executive Simba Nyabadza, told local publication Gemnation,
“As a corporate we want the youngster to pursue his education because he has the skill but skill alone is not enough. He needs education so that he will be able to monetize his talent. So the contract is for one year.
“He can enrol at any school of his choice and we will support him. But what we want is for him to impact the society in a positive way. So it is deliberate that the contract is for one year.”
Likkle Art expressed his gratitude to AFZ and to the producers of Chillspot Records.
“I am grateful for the support from AFZ and also ChillSpot Records’ DJ Fantan, Ribbe and Levels for facilitating this deal for me.
“I am the firstborn in my family and currently in school. It is my hope to further my education while I pursue my passion which is music.”
DJ Fantan of Chillspot Records admitted that he had initially dismissed Likkle Art when the young musician presented himself at the Chillspot Records studio. The young musicians did not give up, however. He persisted until he was finally given a chance to showcase his skills on his third visit.
“The next thing we went into the studio and I posted a video and we got a call from AFZ saying they wanted to sponsor him. So we are happy for him that he has managed to get a scholarship even before he released an album out,” DJ Fantan said.-iharare
