About

Veneka Soul Dziruni – CEO of Tonga Artistry | Internationally Published Photographer | Media Executive

Veneka Soul Dziruni is an internationally recognized photographer, media executive, and the CEO of Tonga Artistry, a premium media house that excels in creativity, professionalism, and cultural expression. 

As an 8-time internationally published portrait photographer, Veneka has gained acclaim for his ability to capture the essence and emotion of his subjects in stunning visual narratives. His work has been featured in leading publications across eight different countries, and he has had the privilege of working with renowned models, brands, and personalities. Veneka’s expertise in portrait photography is not just about creating images; it’s about telling stories that resonate deeply with his audience.

In addition to his photographic accomplishments, Veneka’s diverse experience spans various roles within the creative industry. He served as the lead videographer for the award-winning wedding media company Beauty on Wheels and was once a model featured in Jet Magazine. This multi-faceted background allows him to bring a strategic and creative approach to his leadership role at Tonga Artistry.

As CEO, Veneka has steered Tonga Artistry toward becoming a dynamic creative hub that offers a wide range of services, including photography, videography, graphic design, and media consulting. The company’s mission is to elevate Zimbabwean culture through high-quality media production, while contributing to economic development through creative innovation. Veneka is committed to ensuring that Tonga Artistry plays a vital role in Zimbabwe’s growing creative industry by supporting local artists and offering top-tier media solutions to clients both locally and internationally.

A passionate advocate for education and empowerment, Veneka authored Technical Gold, a free guide designed to help aspiring photographers and creatives navigate the business side of their careers. He also developed Black Money, a more advanced course aimed at helping African artists and media professionals build successful and sustainable businesses. His commitment to fostering the growth of the next generation of creatives is central to his mission at Tonga Artistry.

Veneka’s insights and expertise have been featured on Zimbabwe’s prominent radio stations, including Star FM and Zi FM Stereo, where he has shared his knowledge of creative entrepreneurship and media production. His public speaking engagements reflect his deep understanding of how media and business intersect, and his vision for using creative content to drive cultural and economic growth.

An avid learner, Veneka has read over 100 books on photography, editing, and media production, and he continues to refine his craft and leadership skills. His dedication to continuous learning ensures that Tonga Artistry remains at the forefront of innovation and excellence in the media industry.

Under Veneka’s leadership, Tonga Artistry is not only a media production powerhouse but also a community-driven organization. The company actively works to uplift Zimbabwean culture through artistic expression and strives to create opportunities for local talent. Veneka’s vision for the future is one where Tonga Artistry becomes synonymous with creative excellence, both in Zimbabwe and across Africa.

Whether working with government agencies, businesses, or creative individuals, Veneka’s leadership ensures that Tonga Artistry continues to produce media that informs, inspires, and empowers. His passion for creativity, combined with his strategic approach to business, makes him a driving force in the Zimbabwean media landscape.

Pasha Cardinal Mpala – Cinematographer & Editor at Tonga Artistry

Pasha Cardinal Mpala is a highly skilled and award-winning creative, dedicated to his craft as a cinematographer and editor. With an exceptional eye for detail and a strong passion for film, Pasha is an autodidact with a mastery of video editing software. His six years of experience in both pre-production and post-production have seen him involved in short films, TV series, advertisements, events, and social media content for major brands.

Pasha’s creative journey is characterized by a commitment to storytelling through film, with a deep understanding of the technical and artistic aspects of video production. His proficiency as an editor, cinematographer, and motion graphics designer makes him a versatile asset to Tonga Artistry.

Professional Experience:

Director and Chief Editor
Pasha Cardinal Films, Bulawayo
August 2020 – Present

Cinematographer and Editor
Pixel 360, Bulawayo
November 2019 – July 2020

Editor and Cinematographer
Nikkorlane, Bulawayo
March 2016 – July 2019

Skills:

• Cinematography
• Video Editing
• Color Grading
• Graphics Design
• Motion Graphics
• Photography

Notable Collaborations:

• GQ South Africa
• ZB Bank
• Nando’s
• Daniel Lasker
• United Nations Youth Envoy
• Fashion Without Borders (South Africa & Botswana)
• Byo Art Gallery (Zimbabwe)
• Solatek
• Mine Easy
• She’s Birdie (USA)
• Miss Tourism Zimbabwe
• Miss Environment Zimbabwe
• Passion Java

Showcase of Work:

• John Wick We Video (Instagram)
• YouthADAPT Challenge Awards Ceremony – Message from African Union Youth Envoy Chido Mpemba (YouTube)
• Fixations by Empress Primmy (Fashion Film)
• Introducing Infinni Talent Management (Fashion Film)
• The Great Gatsby Christmas Party After Movie (YouTube)
• Wherever You Wander, Feel Empowered with Birdie (YouTube)

Pasha’s body of work demonstrates his dedication to creating visually stunning and engaging content, both locally and internationally. His contributions to Tonga Artistry bring cinematic quality and creativity to every project.

Russel Graeham Makani – Chief Financial and Production Officer at Tonga Artistry

Russel Graeham Makani is a seasoned creative professional with a diverse background in photography, client management, and media production. As the Chief Financial and Production Officer at Tonga Artistry, Russel combines his keen eye for detail with strong organizational and financial management skills. He has been instrumental in ensuring the seamless execution of media production while overseeing the company’s financial health.

Russel brings over four years of experience in media and photography, having worked as a personal assistant, assistant photographer, and lead photographer. His expertise spans across numerous high-profile events, including photographing key dignitaries such as the President and Vice President of Zimbabwe at national events. His leadership at Russel Media demonstrates his capability to manage teams, deliver exceptional content, and provide quality services to a wide range of clients.

Professional Experience:

Personal Assistant & Assistant Photographer
Urithi Wethu Kollektive / Ernest Mackina Photography
March 2022 – Present

• Personal Assistant
• Assistant Photographer
• Client Management
• Photo Editing

Director & Lead Photographer
Russel Media
2020 – Present

• Director and Manager
• Lead Photographer
• Photo Editor
• Client Services and Event Coverage

Notable Projects:

• Mine Entra 2023: Assisted in photographing His Excellency, the President of Zimbabwe.
• Zimbabwe International Trade Fair 2023: Photographed the event officiated by the Vice President.
• International Business Conference 2023: Captured key moments during this prestigious event.
• Toyota Zimbabwe Awards Event 2022
• First Capital Bank Event
• Edu-stem Fest Spelling Bee 2023
• Over 20+ Weddings and 100+ Portrait Photography Sessions completed.

Skills:

• Photography (Event, Portrait, Corporate)
• Editing with Lightroom and Retouch4Me
• Client Management and Coordination
• Media Production
• Team Leadership

Key Attributes:

• Highly reliable and organized
• Honest and goal-oriented
• Works efficiently under pressure
• Effective in multicultural settings

References:

• Mr. Ernest Mackina
  Urithi Wethu Kollektive & EM Photography
  Email: ernest@mackina.co.zw
  Phone: +263 772 873 170

• Mr. Paul Sibanda
  Lenstrends Media
  Email: lenstrendss@gmail.com
  Phone: +263 779 681 297

• Mr. Addlove Ntini
  Captiva Photography
  Phone: +263 777 174 836

Russel’s extensive experience and leadership skills make him an invaluable member of the Tonga Artistry team, ensuring that all projects are delivered with professionalism and creativity.

Takudzwa Murombo – Chief Strategy and Operations Officer

Takudzwa Murombo serves as the Chief Strategy and Operations Officer at Tonga Artistry, bringing over 5 years of expertise in graphic design, video production, and web development. A highly creative and detail-oriented professional, Takudzwa has been instrumental in shaping the operational efficiency of the company, ensuring that strategies align with both the creative and business sides of the organization.

Takudzwa is proficient in industry-leading software like Adobe Photoshop and Premiere Pro and has hands-on experience in designing and coding websites. His academic background includes certifications from prestigious institutions like John Hopkins University and a Bachelor’s in Business Management from the National University of Science and Technology (NUST), giving him a solid foundation in both creative and operational management.

Education:

• John Hopkins University: HTML, CSS & JavaScript for Web Developers
• National University of Science and Technology (NUST): Bachelor of Commerce (Honors) Degree in Business Management
• Diploma in Business Skills
• 5 O’levels including Math and English

Skills & Proficiency:

• Adobe Photoshop
• Adobe Illustrator
• Adobe Premiere Pro
• Vegas Pro
• GIMP (Image Editing)
• Website Design & Coding

In his role as Chief Strategy and Operations Officer, Takudzwa is responsible for optimizing the company’s workflow, ensuring policies are well-implemented, and driving sales strategies. His technical skills and business acumen have made him a key figure in the company’s expansion efforts, particularly in aligning team objectives with the company’s vision. His ability to bridge creativity with business strategy makes him an essential part of Tonga Artistry’s leadership team.

Phillip Moyo – Chief Public Relations and Communications Officer at Tonga Artistry

Phillip Moyo is a dynamic leader serving as the Chief Public Relations and Communications Officer at Tonga Artistry. With a Bachelor of Arts Honours in Media Studies from Zimbabwe Open University, Phillip combines academic expertise with practical experience to enhance the organization’s outreach and community engagement.

Since 2018, he has made a significant impact as a producer and presenter at Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation’s Khulumani FM, where his storytelling skills and creativity shine. In his role at Tonga Artistry, Phillip is responsible for managing the organization’s public image, crafting compelling narratives, and fostering strong relationships with various stakeholders.

Phillip’s experience as a media liaison for the Global Kingdom Spirit Children’s Foundation and as a public relations officer for Adol Matters Foundation highlights his commitment to social causes and effective communication. His ability to manage social media accounts and engage with the community has been pivotal in promoting awareness of Tonga Artistry’s initiatives.

An accomplished event host, Phillip has facilitated numerous high-profile events, including the Jikinya National Dance Finals and the Ibumba International Festival, further establishing his presence in the Bulawayo arts scene. His accolades, including being named Outstanding Radio DJ at the Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards and being featured among the Top 100 Most Influential People in Bulawayo in 2019, reflect his dedication and influence in the industry.

With a proactive mindset and strong communication skills, Phillip Moyo is a vital asset to Tonga Artistry, committed to driving the organization’s mission forward and making a positive impact in the community through effective public relations and communication strategies.

Ryan C. Chuma – Content Creator | Graphic Designer | Beatmaker | Writer | Video Editor

Ryan C. Chuma is a passionate and dynamic creative professional with over 5 years of experience in producing engaging multimedia content. With a B.Sc. (Hons) in Journalism and Media Studies from the National University of Science and Technology, Ryan excels in crafting compelling stories and high-quality visuals across various platforms.

Currently serving as a Sub-editor and Graphic Designer at Zimpapers, Ryan plays a crucial role in the design and layout of multiple publications, ensuring that every piece of content is polished and engaging. His freelance work spans photography, videography, graphic design, scriptwriting, and copywriting, showcasing his versatility and adaptability in the creative field.

Ryan’s previous role as a Public Relations Attaché at Zimbabwe Power Company honed his skills in media relations, event management, and speech writing. His notable contributions, including winning the Best Exhibiting Stand in the Energy Sector at the 2018 Harare Agricultural Show, highlight his dedication and impact in the industry.

With expertise in tools like Adobe Creative Suite, Da Vinci Resolve, and Microsoft Office, Ryan consistently delivers high-quality work that captivates audiences. He is driven by a commitment to continuous learning and seeks to contribute to innovative projects that inspire and engage

Weslie Dzadagu – Chief Sales Executive, Tonga Artistry

Contact Info:

• Phone: +263783876067
• Email: dzadagueweslie@gmail.com
• Address: 19 Cromathy, Queens Park East, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

Profile: Weslie Dzadagu is a dedicated and dynamic Chief Sales Executive with over 3 years of hands-on experience in customer service, sales, and team leadership in the hospitality industry. Known for his excellent communication skills, Weslie leverages his knowledge in managing client relationships and ensuring smooth, seamless transactions to drive sales. His deep understanding of customer needs and attention to detail has allowed him to consistently deliver exceptional service and sales results. Now, as Chief Sales Executive at Tonga Artistry, Weslie brings his expertise to ensure our clients receive world-class service.

Work Experience:

Chief Sales Executive | Tonga Artistry
Present

• Responsible for overseeing and driving all sales activities.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with clients to ensure repeat business.
• Develop and implement sales strategies to meet company objectives.
• Collaborate with the marketing and creative teams to align sales efforts with client needs.

Waiter | Haefelis Retail
2022 – Present

• Delivered exceptional customer service in a high-traffic environment.
• Maintained in-depth knowledge of menus and specials to provide top-tier service.
• Assisted in barista duties, gaining proficiency in coffee and tea making.

Waiter | Cutty Sark Hotel
2018 – 2021

• Provided customer-centric service while managing a high volume of guests.
• Handled transactions and assisted with event planning and execution.

Skills:

• Exceptional communication and sales negotiation skills.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Proven ability to meet sales targets and manage high-pressure situations.
• Proficiency in cash and card transactions.
• Multilingual: Fluent in Shona, Ndebele, and English.
• Barista skills and deep knowledge of hospitality service.

Certifications & Awards:

• Food Safety Certification
• Certificate of Service from Netone for 2 years of sales experience.

Education:

• 5 O-level passes, including Mathematics, English, and Science.
• 7 points at A-level in Arts.
• Currently pursuing Culinary Studies at the School of Tourism and Hospitality, Bulawayo Polytechnic.

References:

• Mr. P Gutsa (Cutty Sark Hotel) – 077533335
• Tracy Ndlovu (Haefelis)