Zim Ninja Academy Honours Rising Champs After Record Wins in Wales
ZIMNINJA Academy held a colourful awards ceremony at Mukushi Academy on Saturday to honour its young athletes, who recently returned from the ICO World Championships in Wales with an impressive collection of medals.
The team, made up of children aged 8 to 16, brought pride to Zimbabwe with outstanding performances at the World Championships. Their achievements showed personal excellence and the growing strength of local martial arts.
Among the standout performers was Dean Gwatah, who earned a silver medal in individual freestyle weapon and three bronze medals in team events. Anenyasha Hove collected four bronze medals, while Anotida Hove shone brightly with three gold medals and one silver.
Thandeka Moyo also delivered a strong showing, bringing home three gold and three silver medals, and Takudzwa Chizema matched that tally with three golds and three silvers.
Wilfred Mashaya Jr. secured a gold medal and three silvers, Arnold Mudzengerere added one gold, two silvers, and two bronze medals, and Brian Mupindu Jr. took home one gold, three silvers, and two bronze medals.
Leading the team was the seasoned martial arts expert Shihan Wilfred Mashaya, who himself claimed the title of Kobudo World Champion in Wales. The celebration doubled as his birthday, giving parents, students, and friends another reason to cheer.
The event drew strong community support, including guests of honour Victor “Coach Rambo” Kazembe, Valerie Madanire, and Coach Levi Mapudege. Martial Arts World Champion Sensei Austin Mucheni also attended, while musicians Trevor Dongo, Vee Mhofu, and Tapiwa Nhedega provided warm encouragement.
Coach Rambo praised the academy’s discipline and spirit and announced a new initiative to help protect young athletes beyond the dojo.
“I am offering free swimming lessons during the school holiday to all ZimNinja students. This initiative is aimed at reducing drowning cases,” he said.
He also appealed for support as the team now sets its sights on its next international challenge in France, requesting sponsorship for uniforms and airfares.
Despite these financial hurdles, the mood at the event remained hopeful. Academy founder Shihan Mashaya urged the children to continue striving for excellence.
“The event motivated the athletes, showing them what’s possible. If you train and work, you can definitely go far,” he said.
