16 Jan 2025

In a world often preoccupied with the hustle and bustle of daily life, individuals who embody true compassion and care can shine as beacons of hope and inspiration.

One such individual is Dr Direpang Segosebe, a woman whose life and work exemplify the essence of empathy, kindness and a deep commitment to making the world a better place.

Dr Segosebe’s journey has been marked by a steadfast dedication to serving other people. From a young age, she displayed an extraordinary ability to understand and connect with people’s emotions and needs.

“Whether through formal avenues of charity or informal gestures of kindness, I always felt the need to do something, inspired by my mother who was a parent to all children, regardless of background,” she said.

Dr Segosebe emphasised that her desire to uplift those around her has been a constant force in her life. She believes in the power of a community built on mutual care and support, where no one is left behind.

Her compassion extends not only to family or friends, but people from all walks of life especially the most vulnerable in the society.

Through her various charitable efforts, Dr Segosebe has touched countless lives, providing not just material support, but also a sense of hope and dignity to those in need.

One of Dr Segosebe’s standout qualities is her remarkable ability to listen, adding that she takes the time to truly hear people’s stories, whether in the context of a community service, a personal interaction or professional setting, Dr Segosebe listens with an open heart and mind.

Her genuine empathy has enabled her to build meaningful relationships and provide tailored assistance that addresses the root causes of people’s struggles rather than just symptoms.

She emphasises that listening is an act of compassion in itself, “simply acknowledging the pain and needs of others creates healing and understanding.”

Dr Segosebe’s journey of compassion began in 2002 when, as a nurse in Maun, she would visit the affected and infected at their respective homes during her spare time. She identified gaps in care and worked with various stakeholders to provide support.

When she was transferred to Good Hope, Dr Segosebe continued her, partnering with local churches to address the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS.

“The church back then was not very supportive of those infected,” she explained, adding that instead of offering help, some were told to stop taking their medication, in the name of faith. “Some were even judged for being infected.”

In 2005, Dr Segosebe received an award for her contribution towards realization Botswana’s Vision 2016 by the Botswana Vision Council, which called for a compassionate and caring nation and in 2007 she got yet another award for an educated and informed nation.

Her efforts continued in 2012, when she was working in Gaborone. She collaborated with the Gaborone City Council to ensure that streets children obtained national identity cards.

“I organized a Christmas lunch to uplift their self-esteem, and while talking to them, I realized that they did not have national identity cards, I acted immediately,” said Dr Segosebe.

She also ensured that the children received health check-up, and were treated for different conditions  and some are still on treatment.

“I firmly believe that every child deserves an opportunity to succeed, and I dedicate much of my time and energy to ensuring that these children have access to the tools and support they need to thrive,” she said.

Dr Segosebe’s impact extends beyond individual acts of kindness, she has also been a vocal advocate for social causes focused on equality, education, and health and poverty alleviation.

Her efforts have led to the establishment of several community programmes designed to empower underserved populations and address systemic issues of inequality.

Her work with children and the elderly has been especially transformative. In 2002 in Maun, she began teaching communities the importance of using their elbow to cover their coughs and sneezes, the precautionary measures later adopted during COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2011, she spearheaded the health services for the elderly at Post Offices, where she targeted their assembly to teach health and hygiene practices while gathering for their stipends.

What truly sets Dr Segosebe apart is her unwavering commitment to selflessness, saying “in a society where individual success is often prioritized, she has chosen a path that places the wellbeing of others at the forefront.”

Whether advocating for policies that promote social justice or simply offering a helping hand to those in need, Dr Segosebe exemplifies that idea that a fulfilling life is one that is dedicated to serving others.

She credits her work to her belief in the importance of creating supportive environments, such as the initiative she spearheaded to build humps at Julia Molefhe Clinic in Gaborone.

In recognition of her lifelong service, Dr Segosebe was recently awarded an honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters by the University of Upper City Covenant Seminary and Theological Bible College (UCCSAT) in Uganda.

The award celebrated her leadership style, which is grounded in humility, and her ability to empower others through her work.

Her influence has sparked a ripple effect of kindness, inspiring many to follow in her footsteps. Dr Segosebe’s work is a testament to the power of human connection saying compassion. She believes compassion is the most powerful force for change, with the ability to heal wounds, bridge divides and transform lives. ENDS