SHIHAN Wilfred Mashaya, widely known as The Zim Ninja, was crowned the 2026 ANSA People’s Choice Award winner at a glittering ceremony held at the Casino Marina, Longcheng Plaza.
The Annual National Sports Awards (ANSA) brought together Zimbabwe’s top athletes, coaches, and sporting officials under one roof, with Guest of Honour Lieutenant General (Rtd.) Anselem Sanyatwe, Minister of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture, presiding over the prestigious event.
The atmosphere inside the auditorium was electric, with anticipation building for what would become one of the most memorable nights in Zimbabwean sport.
When Dr. Eugie Chidhakwa, Chief Director in the Ministry, announced the winner, the hall erupted.
“The winner of the 2026 ANSA People’s Choice Award… with an overwhelming vote from the people of Zimbabwe… Shihan Wilfred Mashaya, The Zim Ninja!”
Mashaya received a massive public endorsement, securing 7,816 votes out of more than 15,000 cast nationwide, reflecting his growing influence both in sport and community development.
In his acceptance, Mashaya said the award belonged to the people of Zimbabwe and the young athletes he mentors through Zim Ninja Academy.
“To every Zimbabwean who voted for me, thank you. Your belief means more than words can express. I will continue raising our national flag higher,” he said.
He also paid tribute to fellow nominees drawn from across Zimbabwean sport, including athletics stars Vimbayi Maisvorewa and Isaac Mpofu, cricketers Sikandar Raza and Brian Bennett, footballers Marshall Munetsi and Emmanuel Jalai, and other leading sports figures.
“I hold deep respect for every nominee. We are all champions representing Zimbabwe,” he added.
The Kobudo champion said his journey has never been about personal glory, but about using martial arts to transform lives, fight drug abuse, and give young people purpose through discipline and sport.
Mashaya was also named Coach of the Year Silver Award winner, making him the first Zimbabwean martial artist and first member of the uniformed forces to win a double honour at the ANSA Awards.
Shihan Mashaya reflected on the wider meaning of his success, dedicating the awards to his supporters, including the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Zimbabwe Karate Union, Zim Ninja Academy, and the Ministry of Sports.
“These awards are not mine alone. They belong to every Zimbabwean who believes in discipline, unity, service, and hard work,” he said.
The martial arts master used the moment to push a stronger message to young people, urging them to reject drugs and embrace sport as a path to a better future.
“Every training session is a step away from destruction and a step toward purpose,” he said.
