Ishmael was born in 1982 in Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe, the youngest in a family of eight. Both parents passed away when he was a child and his father could not afford to pay for schooling, so when he left school at age 16 his options were very limited.
Ishmael's eldest brother Ignatius Zuwakiyi, a very talented artist based at Chapungu Sculpture Centre, taught him how to sculpt. Another brother, Solomon Chitiyo, who trained with famous 'first generation' artist Sylvester Mubayi, also inspired Ishmael. Sylvester Mubayi and Richard Mupumha, another well-known local artist, helped him when he was learning. When he had proved himself, he began to work alone.
Recent group exhibitions include: Certificate of Excellence, Kristin Diehl Sculpture Prize, German Embassy, Harare, Zimbabwe (2006) Ishmael was chosen as one of the top ten artists, whose works formed a 6-day exhibition. Creativity and Originality, Group exhibition, Chitungwiza Arts Centre, Zimbabwe (2006).
Ishmael is one of the most promising young artists in Chitungwiza. His sculptures encapsulate the simplicity and grace of modern Zimbabwean sculpture.