RENOWNED martial arts master Shihan Wilfred Mashaya added yet another accolade to his storied career on Friday night, receiving the Distinguished Martial Artist Award at the Zimbabwe Community Trailblazers Awards (ZCTA) at Harare International Conference Centre.
The award, celebrated Mashaya’s lifelong dedication to martial arts and community development, just a week after his induction into the International Budo Bushi Hall of Fame in Poland, cementing his global legacy.
The ZCTA event, attended by dignitaries, community leaders, and sports enthusiasts, saw Mashaya lauded for his contributions to the Sports and Arts sector.
Dr Jenfan Muswere, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, presided as the Guest of Honour.
Mashaya’s recent Hall of Fame induction in Poland, a crowning achievement in a career spanning over three decades, recognized his exceptional skill, leadership, and efforts to bridge cultures through martial arts.
The honour places him among an elite cadre of global martial artists celebrated for their technical mastery and philanthropic impact.
As a revered Shihan, (master instructor) Mashaya has trained hundreds of students in Zimbabwe, advocating martial arts as a tool for personal growth and social cohesion.
The Zim Ninja’s self-defence training programs, particularly for underprivileged youth, women and physically challenged individuals have been credited with reducing delinquency and fostering leadership.
