Chidochemoyo Musasiwa
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
The Let Them Schools Arts Festival is back, bigger, better and more vibrant than ever before.
In its 13th edition, the annual festival will happen on Friday 19 and Saturday 20 September 2025, at the Harare City Sports Centre.
The life and musical legacy of Leonard Dembo will be celebrated at the festival where his family will attend as guests of honour.
This year’s theme, “Paivapo, Kwakukhona, Once Upon a Time,” invites students and audiences to journey through stories of resilience, history, and imagination while celebrating the arts.
This much anticipated two-day event will showcase students from ECD, Primary School, and High School categories, offering young creatives from Harare and beyond a platform for their talent.
“Paivapo, Kwakukhona, Once Upon a Time is this year’s theme, which is a reminder that these young performers are storytellers in their own right,” stated Chidochemoyo Musasiwa, Director of Let Them Trust.
“They are documenting where we have come from, where we are, and where we are going.”
“The 13th Let Them Schools Arts Festival has faced challenges, but the team and partners have worked hard to ensure this edition will be a resounding success,” added Musasiwa.
Despite setbacks, the festival’s organizers revealed that they are excited and grateful for the support that has made them stronger and more united.
And the decision to shift the festival from July to September, seems to have added a new dynamic, bringing a summer vibe that will brighten the festivities.
“The Let Them Schools Arts Festival is in a new partnership with City of Harare, a new venue, new staff with fresh ideas, so Paivapo is a fitting theme for this festival.
“Who says 13 is an unlucky number?” added Musasiwa.
Organizers have confirmed that registration is still open to schools and institutions from outside the city, ensuring the festival represents a truly diverse cross-section of Zimbabwean youth.
The Let Them Schools Arts Festival has grown into a cultural cornerstone over 13 years, empowering youth through drama, music, dance, poetry and visual arts.
Guests artistes expected at the festival include Music Crossroads Band, Tatenda Mahachi, The Marasha Kids, Charles TJ, Afro-Ethnic Babe, and trending Zimbabwean comedian Moojaya.
With a new venue courtesy of the City of Harare, stronger partnerships, and a summer atmosphere promising extra vibrancy, the 2025 festival is set to be one of the most memorable yet.
Dates: Friday 19 September & Saturday 20 September 2025.
Venue:Harare City Sports Centre
Categories: ECD, Primary School, High School
Theme: Paivapo, Kukhona, Once Upon a Time.
