• A Star-Studded Lineup Set to Ignite Edmonton & Toronto • New music and surprise acts on cards
Zim Gospel Musicians Head to Canada for Grateful Expedition Show
Zvakwana Nomore Sweto
In what promises to be one of the most spiritually charged musical events of the year, an impressive lineup of top Zimbabwean gospel musicians is preparing to descend upon Edmonton and Toronto, Canada, for the highly anticipated “Grateful Concert” in May, 2026.
“This is more than just a concert; it is a divine convergence. Bringing Zimbabwe’s finest gospel ministers to Edmonton and Toronto is our way of creating a sacred space where the diaspora can encounter home through worship.
“We are not merely organizing shows; we are facilitating moments where gratitude becomes a lifestyle and lives are forever changed by the presence of God. The Grateful Expedition show is a spiritual movement, and we are honored to witness what God will do across Canada,” Organizer, Grateful Expedition Show
The two gospel shows will feature the incomparable Minister Michael Mahendere, Blessing Jedthun, Takesure Zamar, the dynamic duo The Cherayis, and the celebrated Shingisai Suluma, with the elegant Eleana Makombe serving as host.
This momentous gathering of gospel giants represents one of the most formidable lineups ever assembled on Canadian soil, signaling the growing global reach of Zimbabwean gospel music.
A Worship Experience, Not Entertainment
The Grateful Concert series, which officially kicks off with this Canada edition, has distinguished itself from conventional musical performances by prioritizing authentic worship over spectacle. The concept focuses on creating an atmosphere where prayer, reflection, and testimony blend seamlessly with music, making each event feel more like a church service than a typical concert.
Eleana Makombe
Host
Eleana Makombe who has since garnered the attention of music lovers as she has enjoyed a lot of airplay on radio stations from last year, relocated to the UK at the age of 17 and is married to her business partner Tinotenda Makombe.
The musical princess will host the two events, and it’s her first concert bringing the new crop of gospel musicians in Canada. This night is not about entertainment; it’s about creating an atmosphere where God moves.” Makombe revealed that the Grateful Concert concept is designed to be worship-forward, eschewing flashy production in favor of intimate, spirit-led moments that allow for genuine spiritual encounter.
Shingisai Suluma
Gospel Musician
The Canada-based gospel legend, who recently celebrated an extraordinary 30 years in ministry, has described the concert as carrying “deep personal and spiritual significance” because of her connection with the audience. For fans who have cherished her timeless classics such as “Maitiro Enyu” and “Tatenda Taona” over three decades, this event represents a moment of profound emotional and spiritual significance.
Suluma’s extensive discography, spanning albums including Zvanaka, Huyai Ishe Jesu, Nokuti Wakanaka, Fara Zvakadaro, Maitiro Enyu, and Rwendo, has cemented her status as one of Zimbabwe’s most revered gospel voices. Her comeback is rooted firmly in ministry rather than fame, with Suluma emphasizing, “It’s about obedience. I am coming with a heart that wants to minister, to heal, and to remind people that thanksgiving can carry you through any season.”
Minister Michael Mahendere
Gospel Musician
Leading the charge is Minister Michael Mahendere, who has become a household name in gospel music across Zimbabwe and beyond. Coming from a deeply musical family, his father, Pastor Tom Mahendere, was a prominent gospel musician and pastor. Mahendere was exposed to music from an early age.
Mahendere launched his solo career in 2007 with the acclaimed album “Getting Personal with God,” featuring popular tracks such as “Ndinovimba Nemi” and “Mweya Mutsvene.” His subsequent releases, including “Sold Out”, “Getting Personal with God 2”, and “Salt of the Earth”, have garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, including recognition at the National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA). Known for hits like “Makanaka Jesu,” “Hallelujah,” and “Mweya Mutsvene,” Mahendere’s powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics have made him a beloved figure whose music transcends cultural and religious boundaries.
Takesure Zamar
Gospel Musician
The lineup also features the incomparable Takesure Zamar, whose ministry has touched countless lives across Zimbabwe and the diaspora. Known for his distinctive worship style and prophetic edge, Zamar has become synonymous with spiritual breakthrough and intense praise sessions that leave congregations transformed.
His collaborations with fellow gospel artists have further expanded his reach, and recent reports indicate he has been working on new material with South Africa-based gospel artists, demonstrating his commitment to fostering unity within the gospel music community.
The Cherayis
Gospel Musician
Blessing Jeduthun
Gospel Musician
The Cherayis and Blessing Jedthun
The Cherayis, the dynamic gospel duo, bring their unique blend of harmony and passion to the Edmonton and Toronto stage, promising moments of high praise and deep worship. Their music has resonated with audiences across generations, making them a staple at major gospel gatherings. Meanwhile, Blessing Jedthun, whose name has become increasingly prominent in gospel circles, rounds out the main artist lineup, bringing his own anointed sound to this historic gathering.
Meanwhile, organizer of the event dubbed, ‘The Grateful Concert Canada’ edition has reiterated that the show is, “designed to be the first step in a multi-city tour across North America and beyond.” The series has gained respect for its intimate worship settings, live instrumentation, and testimony-filled moments, creating a platform where both established gospel ministers and emerging artists can shine.
