Ronnie Mupambwa is the Founder, President and CEO of Makore Hospitality, a Calgary-based hospitality and entertainment company. Since 2011, he has built a diverse portfolio of restaurants, lounges, nightclubs, rooftop venues, concerts and cultural events that bring people together through music and hospitality.

Born and raised in Zimbabwe, Ronnie later attended high school in Canada, where he earned a scholarship to study electronic engineering. Halfway through the program, he made the difficult decision to leave and pursue his growing career as a DJ. He began DJing in late 2008 and became increasingly involved in Calgary’s nightlife and events industry throughout 2009 and 2010.

Ronnie later studied computer graphic and website design at Reeves College, graduating with honours. In the early days of One Entertainment, which later became Makore Hospitality, he personally managed the company’s graphic design, content, websites and marketing. That hands-on experience continues to shape how he guides Makore Hospitality’s creative and marketing direction today.

Ronnie founded One Entertainment in 2011, beginning with student events, weddings and community parties before expanding into weekly nightlife events and major concerts. He was named DJ of the Year at the Calgary Obsidian Awards in 2013 and Promoter of the Year in 2014.

Over the years, Ronnie’s entrepreneurial journey has included Ronco Liquor Store, Music Nightclub, Lately, Chakalaka, Honey and PDT. Today, Makore Hospitality’s portfolio includes BLEU Nightclub, BLEU Day Club & Rooftop, PAPI, MAMI, Mister M and Makore Events & Concerts.

Through Makore Events & Concerts, Ronnie and his team have produced and promoted events featuring artists including Rihanna, Usher, J. Cole, A$AP Rocky, Lauryn Hill, 50 Cent, Nas, Rick Ross, Daddy Yankee, Nelly, Migos and The Chainsmokers. Makore also created the One Love Music Festival, which welcomed more than 14,000 attendees during its three-year run.

Makore Hospitality has grown into a multi-venue company supported by an experienced leadership team and more than 150 employees. Its venues welcome thousands of guests each week with events featuring hip-hop, R&B, Afrobeats, Amapiano, Latin music, reggae, dancehall, electronic music and more.

Ronnie’s approach to hospitality is built on love, courage, respect and integrity. He believes great hospitality begins with how people are treated, including guests, employees, artists, partners, suppliers and the wider community. He remains focused on developing new concepts, creating inclusive experiences and continuing to grow Makore Hospitality in Calgary and beyond.