28 Jan 2024

Miss Botswana 2024 grand finale is almost here and the organising team has unveiled the top 10 finalists who will battle it out for the prestigious crown at the Royal Aria Convention Centre on March 23.

Before it all unfolds, many would attempt to make some predictions as to who will walk away with the crown, but the pageant producer, also Miss Botswana 2017, Nicole Gaelebale’s statement makes it clear that a tough competition looms and there are not any clear favourites to win Miss Botswana this year.

“Each of these women is bringing something unique to the table, whether their grace, intelligence or commitment to making a positive impact in their communities,” Gaelebale said.

The top 10 finalists, unveiled at a glamorous event at Cresta Hotel on Saturday, are said to have shown determination, talent and passion, which earned them a spot in the prestigious competition.

They are Anicia Gaothuse from Tutume, Charmaine Reasentse from Kgaodi, Christina Vanstaden from Verda, Emma Tshisimogo from Serowe, Halle Hirschfeld from Molepolole Lefika Tladi from Mochudi, Lorato Kgangyapelo from Tonota, Otshepo Nthonyana from Zoroga, Relebanye Bakane from Maun and Sebaga Manyapetsa from Gaborone.

“The contestants have been hard at work preparing for the competition and they have all shown dedication and resilience throughout this journey,” she added.

Gaelebale expressed excitement and gratitude for being a part of the incredible journey as she shared her story which narrated how she desired to be Miss Botswana when she was a young girl.

She said like anyone chasing their dream, she faced rejection numerous times, but that did not make her give up and she continued to persevere until she finally achieved her goal.

She emphasised the importance of Miss Botswana as a platform for change, saying “I truly believe that one girl’s life could be changed.”

She said she believed that her passion for empowering young women had paid off and hence deemed the competition a prospect to inspire and uplift others.

For his part, Miss Botswana director, Benjamin Raletsatsi said this year’s competition promised to be an exciting and empowering event, highlighting the beauty, intelligence and talent that the top 10 finalists possessed.

Raletsatsi said eagerness to see this year’s Miss Botswana continued to grow owing to determination by the top 10 contestants and their readiness to showcase their remarkable talents and in turn make a lasting impact.

“Whether it is through their advocacy work, talent performances or eloquent speeches, these women are poised to make a difference and leave a lasting impression on all who have the privilege of witnessing their journey.

This is what the beauty industry entails,” he said.

This year’s Miss Botswana queen will walk away with a brand new Volkswagen Polo worth P250 000, among other prizes which would include P350 000 to prepare for the Miss World 2025, P120 000 for her upkeep and P150 000 clothing allowance.

The beauty queen will also get a one-year skin care hamper, monthly hampers, cosmetics hamper, one-year gym membership, among others.

The two runners-up will walk away with P25 000 each. Raletsatsi thanked all sponsors for their support.

Meanwhile, the road to the grand finale began in October last year when the Miss Botswana organising team travelled the breadth of Botswana searching for contestants via auditions led by Miss Botswana 2019, Oweditse Phirinyane and Gaelebale in over 20 locations. ENDS