Fashion

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July 4 2025

Miss Teen Gaborone to represent Botswana

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LEUNGO SEPHOBE: Teen queen championing mental health and more

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Fresh off the heels of an impactful international showing in Florida, Botswana’s own Leungo Sephobe is set to illuminate the global stage once more, preparing to walk the ramp at Miss Teen Continents in Spain.

More than just a beauty queen, Leungo is a beacon of purpose, carrying the weight of a nation and the dreams of countless young people on her slender shoulders. “Competing internationally in Florida was a life-changing experience,” Leungo shares, her voice brimming with a newfound confidence. “It gave me confidence, clarity, and a true understanding of what it means to represent not just myself, but my entire country.”

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That invaluable experience taught her to “stand strong under pressure, embrace diversity, and bring authenticity to every stage I walk on.” These aren’t just lessons learned; they are deeply ingrained principles guiding her every step as she gears up for Spain. “I carry those lessons with me,” she affirms, “I’m more intentional, more focused and more connected to my purpose than ever before.”

Life for a global competitor, student, and advocate is anything but easy, yet Leungo has mastered the art of discipline. “It’s not always easy, but I’ve learned to stay disciplined and prioritize what matters most,” she explains.

Her secret weapon is time management, meticulously crafted with schedules, clear goals, and a supportive inner circle. But what truly anchors her is her “why.” “Whether I’m in class, on a stage or standing in front of students during outreach, I know I’m doing something that matters. That purpose fuels me.” It’s this unwavering dedication to her core mission that keeps her grounded amidst the whirlwind of her commitments.

Leungo’s vision extends far beyond personal accolades. “I want the world to see that young girls from Botswana are powerful, intelligent and full of heart,” she declares passionately.

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For her, beauty and purpose are not mutually exclusive; they are intertwined. “I want to show that beauty and purpose can coexist. I stand as a reminder that even at a young age, we can be the voice of change, not just for ourselves, but for our communities and beyond.” She wants every gaze directed at her to reflect “Botswana’s strength, resilience and light.”

The genesis of Leungo’s powerful advocacy lies in her own lived experience. “Growing up, I witnessed and experienced how deeply bullying can affect someone’s confidence, sense of worth and mental health,” she reveals with raw honesty.

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The sting of questioning herself due to others’ words and actions became the catalyst for her remarkable initiative. “That pain became my purpose.” This deeply personal connection led her to establish Arise and Shine, a platform dedicated to ensuring that “no child feels alone, unheard or unworthy because everyone deserves to be seen, supported and reminded of their value.”

July 2 2025

Natasha Proctor rises like a Phoenix

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NATASHA PROCTOR From shadow’s edge to golden light, a Phoenix rises

WhatsApp-Image-2025-07-02-at-09.00.45-2-683x1024-600x899 Natasha Proctor rises like a Phoenix

Digital content creator and social media influencer Natasha Proctor is undeniably living up to her own high expectations. In a world now brimming with opportunities for everyone to shine, Proctor isn’t slowing down.

She’s aggressively carving out her niche in the entrepreneurial landscape, keenly identifying and capitalizing on what’s marketable, especially within today’s digital realm.

Natasha Proctor is already a celebrated makeup artist, a successful hair reseller through her business, La’Proc Hair, and a collaborator with major brands like Flying Fish for product and service promotion.

Recently, she expanded her empire by launching NatProc Fitness Apparel, her own gym collection. To promote this new venture, she teamed up with industry figures such as Thulie, the creative force behind the fashion and lifestyle boutique, Thulie’s Corner.

These remarkable achievements came to light only after Proctor weathered significant storms. She stands as an example of a social media influencer who endured immense online bullying and trolling. Yet, these adversities failed to deter her; she emerged from the shadows, ready to work her magic as a blossoming businesswoman.

Proctor shared that she had to overhaul her lifestyle, returning to the drawing board to truly understand herself. This journey of introspection is a monumental task that many fail to complete. Often, people miss the clear signs that the ball is firmly in their court, waiting for them to take action.

WhatsApp-Image-2025-07-02-at-09.00.45-1 Natasha Proctor rises like a Phoenix

WhatsApp-Image-2025-07-02-at-09.00.45-682x1024-580x790 Natasha Proctor rises like a Phoenix

“Beginning of last year, I wanted to give up, but something told me to just give it one last chance,” she revealed. “I told myself to do things differently, and I isolated myself from people. I stopped partying and only focused on working hard. I had to invest in building my empire; I had to fast and pray.”

Proctor recounted a period where she moved out to begin life anew, on her own terms. Before this turning point, she felt lost, and her life was spiraling. “It was a very difficult time for me. I was not okay emotionally and mentally. I couldn’t celebrate my milestones because I was depressed. But I had to first focus on healing and working on my mental health. I then became happy again. I had lost myself, and with five years of depression, drinking myself to sleep to numb the pain, my life was hell. I stand firm today, proud of myself and what I have achieved.”

Natasha Proctor’s narrative is a powerful testament to a young woman’s determination to transform her life. Once a fixture at exclusive parties across Gaborone, she was losing herself in the process. Before it was too late, a moment of clarity struck: her current lifestyle was leading her down a dangerous path.

Now, having recalibrated her life while she still had the chance, she has boldly entered the world of entrepreneurship, vending hair products and gym merchandise, and ruthlessly cutting out toxicity. Natasha Proctor is living proof that everyone deserves a second chance.

It’s evident that life truly is what you make it. Even without the constant partying and the distress that accompanied it, Natasha Proctor is thriving. Her focus has squarely shifted to growing her businesses, securing her financial future, and undeniably building her legacy. The future shines bright for Natasha Proctor.

June 23 2025

Inside Glotto’s Synergy Concept Store

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The world of fashion is dynamic, and Glotto stands out as a brand that beautifully marries heritage with cutting-edge innovation. At its helm is the visionary founder, Mboko Basiami, who recently unveiled the Synergy Concept Store. This isn’t just a shop; it’s a tangible expression of Glotto’s journey and unique identity.

“The Synergy Concept Store was born out of the desire to create a dynamic space where innovation, creativity, and African luxury intersect,” Basiami explains. More than a mere retail outlet, Synergy tells a compelling story, deeply rooted in Botswana’s rich heritage yet elevated by a global outlook.

Every garment and accessory within the store embody Glotto’s dedication to craftsmanship, sustainability, and, most importantly, storytelling. Basiami emphasizes, “We envisioned a store that doesn’t just sell garments but tells a story.”

True to its name, Synergy thrives on collaboration. A stunning example is the presence of KWA, an in-house jewelry brand by the talented Lega. “KWA is a testament to friendship, artistry, and shared dreams,” Basiami shares with admiration.

This partnership blossomed from Glotto’s debut at New York Fashion Week, where Lega crafted all the jewelry and accessories for the show. “It only felt right to invite her to share some store space with me, giving her the platform to bring her artistry to a wider audience,” Basiami reflects. The result is a beautiful coexistence of two brands, born from the same creative spirit, flourishing under one roof.

As Glotto steps into 2025, its vision extends far beyond local boundaries. With her sights set on global fashion capitals like New York, Los Angeles, and Lagos, Basiami reveals ambitious plans to establish new concept stores that will double as immersive cultural hubs. “These stores will not only house our collections but also serve as cultural hubs, showcasing Botswana’s story through innovative retail experiences,” she states.

This expansion, however, is guided by a clear purpose: maintaining Glotto’s essence. The brand is scaling intentionally, growing its workforce, enhancing production capacity, and investing in efficient infrastructure to meet global demand while staying true to the quality and authenticity that define it.

At the heart of all this growth is the Glotto Gid Family, a vibrant, diverse community that embodies the brand’s values of inclusivity and global unity. Fans can anticipate exclusive collaborations and limited-edition ranges in the coming year, reflecting Glotto’s continuous evolution.

“We are not just expanding Glotto as a business, we are building a movement that redefines African luxury and inspires the next generation of creative entrepreneurs,” Basiami declares with passion.

With the Synergy Concept Store now open and bold plans on the horizon, it’s evident that Glotto is more than a fashion label; it’s a living, breathing tribute to African creativity, cultural pride, and global ambition. As Mboko Basiami and her team forge ahead, one thing is certain: the Glotto story is only just beginning.

June 23 2025

FROM MAUN TO THE WORLD STAGE: The unfolding odyssey of Kaone Kario

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Sometimes, life throws you a curveball, and if you’re lucky, it lands you exactly where you’re meant to be. For Kaone Kario, a tall, determined village girl from Maun, that curveball came in 2005, wrapped in the glitz and glamour of the Nokia Face of Africa auditions.

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Little did this 19-year-old know that she was standing on the precipice of a dream, about to become a supermodel who would grace runways, light up billboards, and showcase beauty across the globe.

Back then, Kaone was a young woman with the world as her oyster, albeit a world she was still getting to grips with. Like any other aspiring soul, her dream was to make it big, but she was utterly clueless that fame and fortune would come knocking so early.

She was told to walk, to model, and in a twist of fate, even got impromptu lessons right there at the auditions. This seemingly ordinary moment was the spark that ignited an extraordinary journey for the girl who now stands as a supermodel, an eloquent speaker, and a true beauty enthusiast.

“Back in Maun, the museum was my favorite place,” Kaone shared in an exclusive interview with Podicast, her voice tinged with nostalgia. “It hosted a number of influential people who fanned my confidence. It was a special place for me to dream.”

It was in this quiet sanctuary that she found her muse, drawing visual inspiration from Mpule Kwelagobe, the Botswana native who had taken the Miss Universe crown in 1999. If Mpule could do it, Kaone knew, then her own sky-high aspirations were within reach.

The bootcamp phase of Nokia Face of Africa was a baptism by fire, packed with editorial lessons that taught her the ropes of modeling. But for Kaone, it wasn’t about the cut-throat competition; it was about soaking up every single moment. “I threw myself into the experience, and I knew I had to milk this,” she recalled, a laugh bubbling up.

“I wasn’t in a competition to win, but the entire experience. I was having the best time of my life. During the Nokia Face of Africa, all I could think of was the after-party, not winning. The whole time I was thinking of my crush who was part of the project.” Such is the endearing innocence of a young woman on the brink of greatness.

Winning Nokia Face of Africa was a monumental achievement, leading to a contract with Storms Modelling Agency. Yet, this sweet victory soon turned sour, proving that sometimes, what glitters isn’t gold. “They robbed me,” Kaone stated frankly, the painful truth an “easy pill to digest” only now, years later.

“Winning the contract was great, and I was making a lot of money very young, the money I didn’t understand. We were given allowances that I didn’t know what I was

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supposed to do with. They stole most of the money, and it’s only now that it’s clicking in my mind.”

It was a harsh lesson, learned in the most unforgiving way: the devil is always in the details of a contract. Kaone vividly remembers signing her initial agreement in the back of a car, only to later discover she was entitled to a significant lump sum that never materialized.

The sting of exploitation was a bitter pill she had to swallow twice. “It hit me the second time it happened, another agency this time,” she recounted. “There were a number of excuses on how I couldn’t be paid. On the other hand, the lawyer would demand a lot of money, and my world was shutting down.”

But Kaone Kario is no stranger to resilience. Through these trying experiences, she learned invaluable lessons that she now passionately shares with others in the arts.

When signing a contract, she emphasizes, you are offering a valuable service that a client desires, and they possess what you want in return. Therefore, artists should never show desperation. Her advice is crystal clear: always, always unpack contracts with lawyers to avoid falling prey to exploitation.

Kaone Kario’s journey from a curious village girl to an international supermodel is more than just a rags-to-riches story. It’s a powerful testament to the importance of self-worth, the necessity of vigilance, and the enduring spirit of a young woman who, despite facing her fair share of bumps in the road, continues to reach for the stars.

June 18 2025

Collections by BK Proctor’s legacy of unrivaled style

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The world of fashion is dynamic and only few brands capture the essence of innovation and cultural pride quite like Collections by BK Proctor. This beloved fashion house is not just designing clothes; it’s crafting a movement, reaching new heights of success through impactful collaborations and earning prestigious accolades that affirm its undeniable influence.

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Recently, Collections by BK Proctor forged a remarkable partnership with Stanbic Bank Botswana for their highly successful Music N Lifestyle Festival. This collaboration saw the launch of an exclusive line of premium, co-branded merchandise, meticulously designed to elevate both identities.

Each piece, from sophisticated accessories to executive apparel, epitomizes a shared commitment to excellence and a dedication to enhancing the customer experience. This fusion of fashion and finance underscored a mutual belief in quality-first principles, reflecting Stanbic Bank’s legacy of reliability and Collections by BK Proctor’s unwavering professionalism.

The brand’s innovative spirit didn’t stop there. Collections by BK Proctor also joined forces with St. Louis Lager to create the official merchandise for the “Hype the Homegrown” campaign. This exciting collaboration is a powerful testament to the strength of local talent and the seamless blend of fashion with the cherished spirit of Botswana’s most iconic lager. It’s a true celebration of creativity and community.

December saw the highly anticipated Annual Express Yourself Fashion Gala 2.0, where Collections by BK Proctor unveiled a series of stunning new lines. Among them was the Formal Expressive Set Collection, tailored for individuals who appreciate elegance, sophistication, and the art of personal expression in their formal wear.

Also launched was the Proctor Palette of Expression Collection, a bold and vibrant line designed for those unafraid to showcase their unique personality through striking colorways. This collection extends an open invitation to wearers to embrace their authentic selves and make an unforgettable statement.

In a crowning achievement, Collections by BK Proctor was recently named Botswana’s No.1 Most Admired Brand for the second time in the prestigious Brand Africa 2025 rankings. This remarkable recognition is a clear reflection of the brand’s unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, relentless innovation, and the deep trust it has cultivated with its customers. It’s not just an award for the brand; it’s a celebration of Botswana’s burgeoning creativity and its continuous progress on the global stage.

Founded by the visionary designer BK Proctor, Collections by BK Proctor is truly more than just a name; it’s a movement. Specializing in exquisite footwear, apparel, and accessories, the brand masterfully weaves together the vibrant threads of Botswana’s rich heritage with cutting-edge contemporary designs.

Through thoughtfully designed collections, the brand strives to blend artistry with purpose, creating pieces that not only inspire confidence but also empower self-expression. This latest milestone only fuels their passion to continue pushing boundaries and setting new, elevated standards in the world of fashion.

June 18 2025

From Gaborone to Rio, Glotto takes local fashion to the world

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Glotto weaves Botswana story into global fashion

When they say Glotto took Rio de Janeiro by storm, they truly mean it. This wasn’t merely a fashion brand making an international appearance; it was Botswana stepping onto the global stage; visibly, loudly, and unapologetically.

Glotto’s recent venture into Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, marks a pivotal moment, showcasing the brand’s audacious spirit and the captivating narrative of African luxury, a vision championed by its Founder, Mboko Basiami, a true visionary and curator.

IMG_6098-1 From Gaborone to Rio, Glotto takes local fashion to the world

IMG_6101-1 From Gaborone to Rio, Glotto takes local fashion to the world

IMG_6100-1 From Gaborone to Rio, Glotto takes local fashion to the world

IMG_6103-1 From Gaborone to Rio, Glotto takes local fashion to the world

The success of Glotto‘s Rio de Janeiro takeover was rooted in meticulous planning and a deep appreciation for cross-cultural collaboration, all orchestrated by Basiami. “Before I arrived as Creative Director,” Mboko explains, “I immediately had to research on which creatives I would have synergy with.”

Connections were swiftly made with Aisha, a São Paulo-based DJ Mboko met previously through Forbes, and local talents Jota and João for a high-stakes fashion editorial. “Major moves,” Mboko recounts, “first time the brand trusted someone apart from its creative director Mboko but it was a success.” The risk paid off handsomely, validating Mboko’s foresight and the team’s execution.

The impact was immediate and widespread. Glotto earned features on two prominent Brazilian cultural platforms, amplifying its reach thousands of miles from Gaborone. With over 175,000 followers, influential platform, Hypebeast Brasil spotlighted Glotto as “one of the brands that have a strong reception from the Brazilian market.” “That alone was huge,” Mboko notes, validating Glotto’s appeal to a diverse international audience.

As a leading cultural hub that curates the very best of Brazilian creativity and international voices in fashion and identity, Brazilian Apparel’s recognition of Glotto was a powerful endorsement.

“For Glotto to be seen on platforms that champion innovation, culture, and craft, thousands of miles from Gaborone are something I still find surreal,” Mboko shares, reflecting on the brand’s rapid ascent.

The journey in Rio extended beyond press features, delving into meaningful cross-cultural exchange. “I connected with an incredible Indigenous Amazonian designer while I was in Rio,” Mboko reveals.

This serendipitous meeting has blossomed into an exciting upcoming collaboration that promises to explore the poetic and ecological connections between Botswana’s iconic Okavango Delta and the majestic Amazon Delta.

“It’s a conversation between two rivers, two worlds through textile, print, and soul,” Mboko explains, highlighting the depth and intention behind this unique partnership.

Every aspect of the Rio de Janeiro trip was strategically designed to build bridges with style and substance. “Everything we did there, shooting in Santa Teresa, dressing Afro-Brazilian creatives in Glotto velvet, linen, and signature textures was about building bridges,” Mboko emphasizes. This deliberate immersion in local culture fostered authentic connections, showcasing Glotto’s versatility and its ability to resonate across different communities.

Mboko Basiami’s vision for Glotto transcends mere fashion; it’s about sharing Botswana’s story, spirit, and boldness with the world. “For me, this trip proved that Botswana fashion belongs on the world stage, not just for its aesthetics, but for the stories, the spirit, and the boldness we carry,” Mboko concludes.

June 18 2025

A SYMPHONY IN SILK: The unmistakable touch of Delayna Scott

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Delayna Scott on dishing masterpieces

Oh, to walk a mile in the exquisitely stitched shoes of Delayna Scott, a true couturier who breathes life into fabric, transforming mere threads into dreams spun on a loom. In a world where the brilliance of creatives often falls on deaf ears, like a symphony played to an empty hall, Botswana, too, has been slow to give its artistic visionaries their due.

More often than not, the vibrant tapestry woven by fashion designers, musicians, and the like is met with a shrug, their groundbreaking work a diamond in the rough that goes unnoticed.

It’s a crying shame, this cultural blind spot where the meticulous artistry of fashion designers goes unheralded. They pull out all the stops, from the delicate whisper of a silk drape to the bold statement of a tailored suit, yet their stellar efforts are frequently overshadowed, a prophet without honor in their own country.

But among this quiet chorus of unappreciated talent, one name rings out like a perfectly struck chord: Delayna Scott. Delayna Scott is not just a fashion designer; she is fashion, a force of nature in the sartorial world. Her understanding of the craft isn’t merely academic; it’s a living, breathing entity, nurtured during her days at Limkokwing University of Creative Technology.

It’s no wonder the world now knows why she’s truly at the top of her game. From the precise nip and tuck of measurements to the intricate dance of hand-knitting and the dazzling sparkle of beadwork, she has mastered every stitch in the fabric of design. Her custom gowns, especially those for young women stepping onto the pageant stage, are more than garments; they are the very stuff of dreams, clothing fit for queens who truly believe they wear an invisible crown.

When the call came for Delayna Scott to conceptualize and design the main gown for the former Miss Botswana, Anicia Gaothusi, as she graced the 72nd Miss World pageant in Telangana, India, it was a moment of both immense honor and a crucible of pressure.

IMG_6055 A SYMPHONY IN SILK: The unmistakable touch of Delayna Scott

Designing for Miss World is no walk in the park; it demands a labor of love, a complete immersion that leaves little room for anything else. Sacrifices were made, comfort activities set aside, for this was not just for Gaothusi, but for the entire nation, indeed, for the African continent.

“What a journey it has been,” she reflected, a glint of the past in her eyes. “When I was selected to design and conceptualize Anicia Gaothusi’s finale gown, the first thing I thought of was the pressure. But I took the challenge. Weeks in, weeks out of hand beading the top of the gown and there it was, dragged beautifully at the Miss World stage.”

And what a vision it was. The custom light blue gown, a cascade of hand-beaded artistry, shimmered like a thousand diamonds under the bright lights. It was a true showstopper, earning accolades from pageantry aficionados and critics alike, a garment that not only made Gaothusi look stunning but truly reflected her vibrant and graceful spirit.

IMG_6056 A SYMPHONY IN SILK: The unmistakable touch of Delayna Scott

But Delayna Scott’s genius didn’t end with the finale gown. For Gaothusi’s Beauty-with-a-Purpose gala dinner, she pulled another masterpiece from her creative wellspring, a gown that was a masterclass in elegance, a timeless beauty crafted with an artisan’s touch. Every stitch, every whispered silhouette, every delicate sparkle echoed the same grace and strength that Gaothusi carried as she stood tall on the global platform.

Delayna Scott is no stranger to adorning royalty. Her magic has touched not only Gaothusi’s wardrobe during her reign but also the best ensembles for former Miss Supranational Botswana, Dr. Thanolo Keutlwile, who also carried Botswana’s hopes to the Miss Universe pageant.

By weaving together, the rich tapestry of traditional craftsmanship with the cutting edge of modern design, Delayna Scott creates contemporary pieces that are more than just fashion; they are conversations across generations and continents, bridges built with thread and needle.

Her vision is as grand as her designs: to be the premier Afro-Caribbean luxury fashion brand, a name synonymous with exclusivity, effortless elegance, and a deep sense of heritage in every meticulously crafted piece.

IMG_6061 A SYMPHONY IN SILK: The unmistakable touch of Delayna Scott

Her designs have not been confined to local runways. Delayna Scott has taken her sartorial prowess to the world stage, showcasing at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival Fashion Exhibition in France in 2019, where she had the distinct honor of dressing two celebrated French actresses, Slyvia Pouget and Eloise Valli, for their Cannes red carpet appearances.

Her name echoed through the hallowed halls of New York Fashion Week in 2018, a year after her star turn at Malawi Fashion Week. And in a true feather in her cap, 2023 saw her dress the then-reigning Miss World, Karolina Bielawska, marking the first time a Miss World queen had visited Botswana since the pageant’s inception.

Delayna Scott is not just dressing women; she’s dressing dreams, one exquisite stitch at a time. Her legacy is being woven, thread by shining thread, into the very fabric of global fashion.

June 16 2025

IZAURA’S GENESIS COLLECTION: Weaving Botswana’s heritage into the future of global fashion

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Botswana, a land rich in untold stories and vibrant heritage, is now witnessing a sartorial revolution. At the forefront of this exciting movement is iZaura, a luxury cultural fashion house that has just unveiled its groundbreaking “Genesis Collection.”

More than just clothing, Genesis is a meticulously crafted capsule that transcends the boundaries of fashion, transforming into a wearable archive of Botswana’s past, present, and future.

Imagine fabrics whispering tales of ancient traditions, silhouettes echoing the spirit of a proud nation, and designs that are both deeply rooted in history and boldly stepping into modernity. This is the essence of “Genesis.”

The non-commercial collection, destined for exhibitions and editorial features, marks a pivotal moment for iZaura, showcasing a fusion of luxury streetwear and high-end ready-to-wear that draws profound inspiration from archival materials, oral histories, and the very symbolic language of Botswana.

The “Genesis Collection” presents 6-8 meticulously curated looks, each a testament to iZaura’s artistic vision. Here, traditional motifs seamlessly intertwine with contemporary silhouettes, creating pieces that are both timeless and forward-thinking. It’s a visual dialogue between generations, a celebration of heritage reimagined for the discerning global citizen.

Beyond the exquisite aesthetics, “Genesis” embodies iZaura’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and ethical fashion. This collection champions zero-waste cutting processes and incorporates sustainable materials wherever possible, demonstrating that luxury can indeed be responsible. It’s a powerful statement that commercializing culture doesn’t have to come at the expense of our planet or its people.

Mothusi Lesolle, the visionary Director of iZaura, sheds light on the brand’s evolving philosophy. “We are creating convenience and accessibility to both our local and international clientele in our new business model,” he explains. “It has always been our dream to create identity and signature looks that tell the iZaura story, in form, spirit and texture.” This new capsule is a tangible manifestation of that dream, offering a glimpse into the very soul of the iZaura brand.

But “Genesis” is more than just a collection; it’s a visual manifesto. It’s designed to captivate and engage cultural institutions, government stakeholders, and international partners, inviting them to participate in Botswana’s unfolding narrative.

To further amplify its message, “Genesis” will be accompanied by a limited edition digital lookbook and a mini-documentary. These immersive experiences are crafted to ignite conversations around creative sovereignty, the profound importance of identity, and the undeniable power of fashion as a potent storytelling medium.

Lesolle’s words resonate with a powerful conviction: “This collection is telling the story of where we are going. It’s time for Botswana’s aesthetic intelligence to take global form, without dilution or apology.”

With “Genesis,” iZaura isn’t just presenting clothes; they are presenting a bold declaration, a cultural revolution woven into every thread, inviting the world to witness Botswana’s artistic brilliance take its rightful place on the global stage.

3a-1-683x1024-600x628 IZAURA'S GENESIS COLLECTION: Weaving Botswana's heritage into the future of global fashion

More than just clothing, Genesis is a meticulously crafted capsule that transcends the boundaries of fashion, transforming into a wearable archive of Botswana’s past, present, and future.

June 13 2025

Inside Miss Botswana Ruth Thomas’s Triumphant Homecoming

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Under the golden winter skies of north-eastern Botswana, the hills of Masunga prepare to welcome their daughter, Miss Botswana 2025, Ruth Thomas.

The Miss World Botswana Organization has announced a heart-warming Homecoming Celebration in her honour, set for Friday, June 20th, 2025, at the historic Masunga Main Kgotla.

This event is more than just a ceremonial return; it is a deeply personal and symbolic moment in the life of a young woman who now wears the nation’s crown with grace, pride, and an unwavering sense of purpose.

The people of Masunga, and indeed all Batswana, are invited to join in the festivities, which promise to blend tradition, pride, and celebration in one unforgettable gathering.

Thomas was crowned Miss Botswana on the 23rd of March, 2025, stepping into the national spotlight with poise and promise. Her victory was met with resounding support from all corners of the country, but nowhere more so than in her hometown, where her story first began, where values were instilled, and where dreams were nurtured long before the sash and crown ever adorned her.

Now, as she prepares to represent Botswana on the world stage at the 73rd Miss World Festival in 2026, Ruth returns not just as a queen, but as a symbol of what’s possible when ambition meets community support. The homecoming serves as a full-circle moment, an opportunity for Masunga to bask in the reflected glow of her success and for Ruth to express her gratitude to the village that shaped her.

The Main Kgotla, a place of wisdom, unity, and tradition, will serve as the perfect backdrop for the celebration.

Elders, youth, family, and friends will gather to honour not only Ruth’s achievements but the values she embodies: resilience, humility, and vision.

With media and well-wishers expected to travel from across Botswana, the event is poised to be a beautiful showcase of national pride and cultural unity.

As Ruth Thomas takes her place among the nation’s finest ambassadors, her return to Masunga reminds us all that greatness often has the humblest beginnings.

From the dusty roads of her village to the glittering stage of Miss World, hers is a journey that continues to inspire.

June 20th will not just be a homecoming, it will be a celebration of dreams realized, of heritage embraced, and of a future that shines bright not just for Ruth, but for every Motswana watching her rise.

June 11 2025

STYLED FOR SUCCESS: Fashion and the power of presentation

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First impressions often speak louder than words, and the old saying “you are addressed as you are dressed” continues to hold timeless relevance, especially in the realm of fashion, styling, and pageantry. For Miss Botswana 2019, Oweditse Phirinyane, fashion isn’t just about clothing; it’s a form of intentional communication. It’s how one tells their story before they’ve even said a word.

Post a successful display of art, beauty and fashion at the 72^nd Miss World, former beauty queen and style enthusiast chatted about signature aesthetics, making a statement on global platforms, and nurturing the next generation of fashion creatives in Botswana.

When asked to describe her signature styling aesthetic, Oweditse doesn’t hesitate. “My style is a sophisticated balance of timeless elegance and artistic individuality. I define my own trends. My aesthetic speaks to intentionality and quiet power.” Her approach is bold yet refined. It’s never about being loud, but rather about crafting a presence so distinct that it commands attention effortlessly.

“There’s always an unconventional touch or a daring accessory,” she adds, “making me or who I am styling undeniably themselves, standing out not through excess but through effortless distinction.” This principle of quiet power speaks volumes, especially in a digital age overwhelmed with overexposure.

IMG_7016-3-992x1024-947x640 STYLED FOR SUCCESS: Fashion and the power of presentation

Having once stood under the global spotlight herself, Oweditse knows just how much fashion can influence perception. For contestants on the international stage, such as Miss World, she believes fashion is a tool to both elevate presence and express cultural heritage. “When the right fashion statement is made appropriately at a conservatively themed stage like Miss World, it highlights both personal style and one’s country.”

She points to standout moments like Anicia’s national costume, her nurse-inspired interview outfit, and top model look, each one telling a story of heritage, personal history, and individuality. “It was a homage to her grandmother,” Oweditse notes, emphasizing that authenticity can be one’s strongest asset.

To young stylists and fashion designers in Botswana looking to break into the industry, Oweditse offers grounded, heartfelt advice. “You will never go wrong when you embrace your individuality and lead with purpose,” she says. She stresses that the goal should never be to mimic someone else’s path but to carve your own.

“Focus on personal growth, do what you love, and be teachable,” she adds. In other words, evolve with intention. Learn, unlearn, and relearn. Fashion is, after all, both a discipline and a journey.

Whether you’re on a world stage or walking down the streets of Gaborone, the way you dress reflects who you are, or at least who you aim to be. Styling isn’t about trends; it’s about identity. As Oweditse Phirinyane proves through her work and wisdom, fashion can be your loudest voice and your softest whisper, all at once. Because, indeed, you are always addressed as you are dressed.