FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Association of African Podcasters and Voice Artists (APVA) proudly unveils Wakio Mzenge, as the distinguished face of the APVA Awards season. With a remarkable career spanning over a decade, Wakio Mzenge has emerged as a trailblazer in the creative arts scene, captivating audiences with her unmatched talent and unwavering dedication.
Hailing from Kenya, Wakio Mzenge is a multifaceted and multiple award-winning artist, acclaimed for her professionalism, craftsmanship, and unforgettable performances across various mediums. As a versatile voice actor, she has lent her voice to a myriad of projects, resonating with audiences both locally and internationally. Her voice has graced campaigns, documentaries, educational series, and cultural initiatives, demonstrating her versatility and ability to breathe life into diverse narratives.
Wakio Mzenge’s contributions to the creative industry extend beyond her performances on screen and stage. As a film director, MC/host, and founder of Beyond The Mainstream Storytellers, she has championed inclusivity and innovation, pushing boundaries and amplifying underrepresented voices in the storytelling realm.
Her voice has traveled the world in projects such as the Stain Not Shame campaign, which won an award at Cannes 2023, Deutsche Welle’s Learning by Ear series, Documentaries by Biscuit Factory and Adastra Development Ltd, Better World Educational videos by Discovery Learning, Women of the World docu-series, AMREF – HELP Solution project, TVCs and IVRs for brands such as Safaricom, Pwani Oil Ltd, KPLC, NCIC, Nestle, HELB and YU-Mobile and lots more.
Wakio’s voice has also been recognized and celebrated through several prestigious awards such as KENYA THEATRE AWARDS 2023 – Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Monologue – winner, AFRICAN PODCAST & VOICE (APVA) LEGACY AWARDS 2022 – Africa Innovation Award- winner, LAKE INTERNATIONAL PAN-AFRICAN FILM FESTIVAL (LIPFF) 2021 – Best Actress in a Film winner (Tales of the Accidental City) etc.
As a Bachelor of Education holder, Wakio has dedicated her time to teaching performance skills and sharing her vast experience both in virtual and in-person masterclass sessions at KCA UNIVERSITY and Voice Actors League of Kenya (VALK). She was one of the speakers at the 2022 Virtual Voice Over Africa Conference on Swahili as a Language of Business.
We are thrilled to welcome Wakio Mzenge as the Face of the APVA Awards 2024,” said Bidemi Adedire, Founder of APVA. “Her exceptional prowess, dedication to the craft, and commitment to uplifting diverse voices align perfectly with our mission. We are confident that her involvement will further elevate the APVA Awards and inspire creativity within the African podcast and voice industry.”
Wakio Mzenge’s involvement promises to propel the awards to unprecedented heights, igniting a spark of inspiration and fostering a culture of creativity and innovation within the African podcast and voice industry. we’re excited about the possibilities and the positive impact her influence will bring.
“As much as we should invest on self validation, it sometimes takes someone outside of you to see the greatness inside of you and help you bring it out of you said Wakio Mzenge, Face of APVA Awards 2024. “Recognition is such a powerful instrument in the orchestra of growth, not just for the individual awarded but the industry at large…why? Because it paints a picture of what success looks like and motivates productivity. APVA is playing a pivotal role in this growth in the voice industry within the continent and I am truly honored to be part of this great assignment, truly honored to put my voice on it.”
The APVA Awards remains steadfast in its commitment to celebrating and empowering African audio creators. With this year’s theme, “King of The Game,” the organization seeks to honor those who have demonstrated excellence, leadership, and resilience in the pursuit of their craft, shaping the future of audio storytelling.
Press Contact:
[Stepheny Itemuagbor]
[Programs and Partnerships Officer]
[The Association of African Podcasters and Voice Artists]
[stepheny@apva.africa]
