Edith WeUtonga Scoops An Award From the Finnish Musicians’ Union
UK based-Zimbabwean guitarist and vocalist, Edith WeUtonga Katiji has emerged as a transformative figure in the music industry. Her unwavering commitment and advocacy have earned her the prestigious Nyrkki Award from the Finnish Musicians’ Union.
This esteemed accolade honors her remarkable contributions to the music sector and was bestowed upon her during the SASK’s Solidarity Days in Hämeenlinna, Finland.
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Notably, as the founder and president of the Zimbabwe Musicians’ Union (ZIMU), which commemorates its 10th anniversary this year, and as the Vice President of the International Federation of Musicians (FIM), Edith has blazed a trail. She holds the distinction of being the first African woman to serve in the presidium of the FIM, underscoring her exceptional technical prowess and leadership.
Speaking from her UK base, Edith shared with Saturday Leisure the driving force behind her remarkable journey.
“When we do the work we do, we do it out of a passion to see a better future for musicians. Having been in the sector for 20+ years and realising that I am the change I want to see, I decided to stand up and out! I have an amazing team at ZIMU that is helping us to amplify the work we are doing and trying to achieve. This award comes at a time when we decided we would walk the talk and do what needs to be done regardless of what some people may say,” he said.
“We are proud to have reached almost 10 provinces now, something that has never been achieved by a union in Zimbabwe since independence. We are the first union to be working at an international level with the world federation and sitting in the presidium. We are proud to have stood and remained consistent and effective for 10 years now as we celebrate 10 years this December.”
