The lights, cheers, and anticipation at the 7 Arts Theatre in Harare reached a thrilling climax on Friday evening as DreamStar Zimbabwe crowned its 9th Edition champions. Under the fitting theme “Aspire to Inspire,” the show celebrated talent, courage, and youthful ambition, once again proving why DreamStar has become one of the most transformative arts platforms in the country.

Pandazz Dance Hub stole the night with a high-energy performance that blended storytelling, style, and technical brilliance. Their victory saw them walk away with USD$10 000 and a fully sponsored trip to China. As if that wasn’t enough, they also scooped the People’s Choice Award, adding another USD$7 300 to their achievements, making them the biggest winners of the evening.

Second place went to the emotional and vocally gifted Mariegold, who received USD$9 000 and a trip to China, while Prince Avolon secured third position with USD$8 500 and the same international opportunity. All three winners will soon embark on a cross-cultural experience in China, one that has opened doors for many past participants.

The grand finale was not just about the contestants. The audience was treated to unforgettable live performances from some of Zimbabwe’s most popular artists, including Killer T, Nisha Ts, Delroy Shewe, Atenda Chingz and Nyasha David, turning the night into a musical spectacle. The atmosphere was electric as the theatre erupted with cheers, singing, and dancing as fans enjoyed the star-studded lineup.

Speaking with energy and optimism, Mr Walter Chanaka from Jacaranda Culture and Media Corporation emphasised the heart behind the show, saying DreamStar reminds youth that their talent is not just performance but purpose. “It shows our youth that their performances are a passion,” he said, adding that the platform helps young creatives realise that passion can translate into real opportunities.

China Railway No.09, one of the long-standing supporters of the program, highlighted the deeper impact of sponsoring DreamStar. In an interview with Zim Now, China Railway No.09 said “This project doesn’t just help young people chase their artistic dreams, it also gives them opportunities for further education and career growth… Through these cultural exchanges, people from both countries will get to know each other better, and that’ll really strengthen the people-to-people foundation of our friendship.”

Their continued investment has shaped DreamStar into a collaborative cultural bridge, transforming performances into pathways and passion into careers.

The night was further uplifted by a message from Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Zhou Ding, who described the show as more than a finale. He celebrated the young performers, noting that DreamStar has grown into “a vibrant celebration of youth, dreams, and extraordinary talent.” He also highlighted how previous winners have become global cultural voices, showcasing Zimbabwean artistry abroad.

What made this edition remarkable was not just the prize money or the applause, it was the collective belief in youth potential. The stage was not merely a platform but a launch pad.

From electrifying dance routines to breathtaking live vocals, the audience witnessed journeys unfolding, dreams accelerating, and futures rewriting themselves in real time. As DreamStar marches toward its 10th anniversary, it stands stronger than ever, as a movement, an opportunity, and a celebration of Zimbabwean creativity.

For Pandazz Dance Hub, Mariegold, Prince Avolon, and many other finalists, Friday night was not the end of the journey, but the moment their dreams began to travel further.