Man of the moment, Van Choga (VC), exudes a lot of energy in is work, but he is actually the opposite in real life. Hard to believe, is it not?
Reporter Brighton Zhawi (BZ) last week caught up with the 27-year-old singer, real name Valentine Simbarashe Choga, gives us an insight into his life. He also spoke about the new single “Ghetto Rules”, which features Ghana’s “GOAT” hitmaker Ay Poyoo and has taken the country by storm.
BZ: “Ghetto Rules”, which is a couple of weeks old, is doing well on the market, but you are already working on new songs.
VC: There is no rest my brother, time to rest will come later in life. For now, I have to work
BZ: What are you currently working on?
VC: Singles. I am doing more singles, which you can expect in August.
BZ: You have done well on your hip hop tracks “Ndaka Understander” and “Ghetto Rules”. Should your fans expect more?
VC: I am working on mixed tracks, you will find some Afro hip-hop songs as well as dancehall tunes.
BZ: Your fans are split on which style you should pursue. What is your take?
VC: I understand. The urban fans like the hip hop side, while the outsiders like the “Pindikiti” tracks, those sort of songs. I will keep mixing both. However, I understand hip-hop has an international appeal, which is something I would like. Sean Paul is still in the game because he can fit in dancehall or pop music, whereas someone like Shabba Ranks is mainly dancehall and we rarely hear his music now.
BZ: Who is featured in your upcoming singles?
VC: It’s a surprise (laughs).
BZ: Are they local or foreign surprises?
VC: Both.
BZ: Tell us the “Ghetto Rules” collaboration with Ay Poyoo.
VC: We approached him after seeing his style. We thought we could blend and he worked on the song for two weeks in June. Ndiri wema surprise (I’m full of surprises) (laughs).
BZ: Can you interpret some of AY Poyoo’s lyrics?
VC: He was talking about the ghetto lifestyle from his country. I will share the English lyrics soon.
BZ: Who is ‘Mudhara Kundishora’, the one you sing about in “Ghetto Rules”?
VC: He is an elder in my hood, Ruwa. He likes offering advice to young people. He was surprised and equally happy that I saluted him on the song. I am sure I will be getting more advice now.
BZ: What impact has the lockdown had on your music career?
VC: To be honest it has had a positive effect. This shows God has his ways of raising his people, even in war times others get blessings. I am grateful my music has made such an impact.
BZ: Describe your relationship with Seh Calaz?
VC: We are good brothers, what happened, happened, but I am still in good books with him and perhaps his post (after “Ghetto Rules” release) confirms there is no bad blood.
BZ: We have seen you with upcoming artistes like Avilian during your Yalanation stint. Any upcoming artistes under your wings?
VC: Ooh! We met at the studio and just started sampling some songs They are good artistes with serious potential and I would also like to help some upcoming artistes. I am available for collabos.
BZ: Tell us about the producer Mars on “Ghetto Rules” and others that you have worked with?
VC: Mars is a great man. He is a top producer and I respect all other producers I have worked with, as well as behind the scenes people. As an artiste, it is easy to take all the credit but that is wrong because a lot of people play crucial roles behind the scenes.
BZ: You always mention Mudzviti, is it where you come from?
VC: (Laughs) Not really. I have relatives I often visit there. So I am fascinated by the language spoken in that area. I love it. I come from Njanja.
BZ: So are we going to hear a new line about Njanja perhaps “nevasikana veku Njanja” since there is “Nevakomana vekwa Mudzviti”?
VC: No, by the mentioning Van Choga, Njanja is represented.
BZ: Do you prefer live bands or backtracks?
VC: Live bands are better than using backtracks. I learnt a lot from working with Shabach Band. The guys love music; they are brilliant and a joy to work with. The group boosted my confidence and since then I have decided to always perform with a live band.
BZ: How are you dealing with the pressure that comes with being in the limelight?
VC: You just have to work. What is important is just being unique and that is what I have tried since making my breakthrough. It has not been easy.
I started way back around 2005 and, believe it or not, some people in my area did not want to associate with me, they took me for a madman, but I knew my time would come.
Those people are now back saying ‘tomuziva uyu, ndewedu’ (laughs). I love negative comments, especially on social media, they are a motivation.
When people give you negativity, show character and turn that into positive energy.
BZ: What are some of the misconceptions that you think people have about you?
VC: That I am mad and I take drugs. I am a quiet guy who is uniquely doing art.
BZ: Does Van Choga have a girlfriend or wife?
VC: (Laughs) Van Choga is single, no girlfriend and when I marry the whole nation will know and will be invited to the wedding. Tokudai mese!
Info News
Best Business Credit Cards for Small Business Owners
The best business credit cards can help small business owners manage expenses, earn rewards, and separate business spending from personal spending. If you use your card carefully, it can also improve cash flow and make bookkeeping easier.
rnBusiness credit cards are especially useful for owners who travel, buy inventory, pay for ads, or make regular operating purchases. Instead of using a personal card, a business card keeps transactions organized and may come with better tools for tracking spending. That can save time at tax season and make financial reporting easier.
rnWhen choosing a card, look at rewards structure, annual fees, interest rates, and extra perks. Some cards offer cashback, while others reward travel, office spending, or advertising purchases. The best option depends on where your business spends the most.
rnYou should also review the card’s credit requirements. Some cards are easier to qualify for than others, and newer businesses may need to start with simpler options before moving up to premium cards. A business card should support your operations without creating unnecessary debt.
rnIf you plan to carry a balance, pay close attention to the APR. A rewards card is only valuable if the interest does not outweigh the benefits. For many owners, the smartest strategy is to pay the balance in full whenever possible and use the rewards as a bonus.
rnSome business cards also include tools for employee cards, expense tracking, purchase protection, and travel insurance. These extras may be useful if your team makes frequent purchases or if your business requires travel.
rnThe best business credit card is the one that matches your spending habits, keeps your finances organized, and gives you useful rewards without hidden costs.
rn
Green Card Lawyer: When You Need Legal Help With Permanent Residency
Green Card Lawyer: When You Need Legal Help With Permanent Residency
rnrn
Getting a green card is one of the most important steps in the U.S. immigration process. A green card can allow a person to live and work permanently in the United States.
rnrn
But the process is not always simple.
rnrn
Some people apply through family. Others apply through employment, asylum, refugee status, special immigrant categories, or other immigration pathways. Each route has its own forms, rules, evidence requirements, and risks.
rnrn
That is where a green card lawyer can help.
rnrn
What Is a Green Card Lawyer?
rnrn
A green card lawyer is an immigration attorney who helps people apply for lawful permanent residency.
rnrn
They may help with:
rnrn
Marriage green cards
rnParent petitions
rnChild petitions
rnSibling petitions
rnEmployment-based green cards
rnAdjustment of status
rnConsular processing
rnGreen card interviews
rnRequests for Evidence
rnWaivers
rnGreen card denials
rnConditional green cards
rnRemoval of conditions
rnrn
USCIS handles many immigration benefit applications, including green card-related filings.
rnrn
Do You Need a Lawyer to Apply for a Green Card?
rnrn
Not every person is legally required to hire a lawyer. Some simple cases may be handled without an attorney.
rnrn
However, immigration law can be unforgiving. A mistake may cause delays, denials, or future immigration problems.
rnrn
A lawyer may be especially important if:
rnrn
You overstayed a visa
rnYou entered without inspection
rnYou have criminal history
rnYou were previously denied
rnYou were removed or deported before
rnYou need a waiver
rnYou have past immigration fraud or misrepresentation issues
rnYou are unsure if you qualify
rnYou received a USCIS notice
rnYou are applying through marriage and need strong evidence
rnYou have complicated travel history
rnrn
Family-Based Green Card Cases
rnrn
Family-based green cards are common, but they still require careful preparation.
rnrn
A U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident may be able to petition for certain family members. The process may involve proving the qualifying relationship, financial sponsorship, identity, lawful entry, admissibility, and eligibility.
rnrn
A green card lawyer can help prepare:
rnrn
Family petition
rnAdjustment of status application
rnAffidavit of support
rnMedical exam guidance
rnRelationship evidence
rnFinancial documents
rnInterview preparation
rnResponses to USCIS notices
rnrn
Marriage Green Card Lawyer
rnrn
Marriage green card cases receive close review because USCIS wants to confirm that the marriage is real.
rnrn
A marriage green card lawyer can help organize evidence such as:
rnrn
Joint lease or mortgage
rnJoint bank accounts
rnInsurance records
rnPhotos together
rnTravel records
rnMessages and communication history
rnBirth certificates of children
rnAffidavits from family or friends
rnShared bills
rnTax records
rnrn
The goal is not just to file forms. The goal is to clearly prove a real marriage.
rnrn
Adjustment of Status vs. Consular Processing
rnrn
There are two common green card paths.
rnrn
Adjustment of Status
rnrn
Adjustment of status is usually for eligible applicants already inside the United States.
rnrn
Consular Processing
rnrn
Consular processing is usually for applicants applying through a U.S. embassy or consulate outside the United States.
rnrn
Choosing the wrong path can create problems. A green card lawyer can help determine which option fits your situation.
rnrn
Green Card Filing Fees
rnrn
Government filing fees can change. USCIS provides the official fee schedule and fee calculator to help applicants verify current filing costs before submitting forms.
rnrn
Before filing, make sure you know:
rnrn
Which forms are required
rnWhether online filing is available
rnWhether separate fees apply
rnWhether biometrics fees apply
rnWhether fee waivers are available
rnWhere to send the application
rnrn
A wrong fee can cause rejection or delay.
rnrn
What If USCIS Sends a Request for Evidence?
rnrn
A Request for Evidence, also called an RFE, means USCIS needs more information before deciding the case.
rnrn
An RFE may ask for:
rnrn
More relationship evidence
rnProof of lawful entry
rnFinancial sponsorship documents
rnBirth certificates
rnDivorce records
rnTax documents
rnMedical exam documents
rnTranslation corrections
rnImmigration history explanation
rnrn
Do not ignore an RFE. Missing the deadline may lead to denial.
rnrn
Green Card Interview Preparation
rnrn
Many green card cases require an interview.
rnrn
A lawyer can help you prepare by reviewing:
rnrn
Your application
rnRelationship history
rnImmigration timeline
rnPrior filings
rnPotential red flags
rnDocuments to bring
rnQuestions you may be asked
rnrn
For marriage cases, both spouses should understand the facts of their relationship and be ready to answer honestly.
rnrn
Common Green Card Mistakes
rnrn
Avoid these mistakes:
rnrn
Filing the wrong form
rnUsing outdated forms
rnSubmitting wrong fees
rnLeaving blanks without explanation
rnNot translating documents
rnFailing to disclose past arrests
rnFailing to disclose prior immigration problems
rnSubmitting weak relationship evidence
rnMissing interview notices
rnIgnoring USCIS letters
rnMoving without updating your address
rnrn
Immigration applications should be complete, accurate, and honest.
rnrn
Final Thoughts
rnrn
A green card lawyer can help protect one of the most important immigration applications you may ever file.
rnrn
Whether your case involves marriage, family, work, waivers, interviews, or prior immigration problems, legal guidance can make the process clearer and safer.
rnrn
A green card is too important to guess your way through.
rn
