02 Jul 2025

As gender-based violence (GBV) continues to pose a serious challenge in Botswana, Miss Universe Botswana finalists have been  urged to lead by example and become voices of dignity, education, and national pride.

The young women were implored to use their platforms to speak out against GBV and to promote respect, both in their homes and broader society.

South Africa’s High Commissioner to Botswana Thaninga  Shope-Soumah called on said addressing the finalists on Monday ahead of their boot camp in South Africa. 

“The education we give our children especially our boys matters,” she said and further advised them to teach boys to never shout or hit a woman. “Gender-based violence begins with what children see at home, and that is where we must start changing the narrative,” she said.

 She reminded them that GBV was not only physical, but also emotional, and encouraged media and entertainment industries to contribute to the fight through awareness and representation. “We need dramas that educate people about the dangers of violence. 

We must keep speaking about it until it stops,”she said.

She challenged the contestants to carry themselves with absolute dignity and confidence as they represent Botswana during the regional tour and to embrace their roles as ambassadors, reminding them to be grounded, disciplined, and informed.

“You must know your country, its challenges, strengths, be aware of issues like GDP and food security. If someone asks you what Botswana is about, have an answer. Know Thailand too where one of you is going to represent Botswana. Don’t say, ‘I don’t know where it is.’ Learn about it. Learn about Africa.” She stressed the importance of global and continental awareness, urging the finalists to be worldly in their thinking and wide in their solutions. Adding that they should be able to engage with confidence of various topics such as youth empowerment, economic development, or diplomatic ties among others.

The boot camp, will see contestants visit iconic sites including Sun City, Pretoria and Johannesburg and key economic and diplomatic hubs.

Shope Soumah described this as an important step in exposing young Batswana to real-world trade systems, continental partnerships, and how infrastructure links economies together.

“We cannot bring the world to Botswana without South Africa. Everything must pass through our neighbour. That’s why this trip matters not just for beauty, but for understanding Africa’s business and diplomatic heart.”

She spoke about global challenges such as racism, sexism, and drugs, urging the finalists to remain focused and alert. 

“You will face ignorance, racism, and even jealousy, in life,” and advised them to never let anyone make them quit or change who they are. Sharing a personal experience working with vulnerable youth affected by drugs, the envoy underscored the need for strong moral foundations and peer guidance.

“When you see a sister going down the wrong path, speak up. Don’t fall into traps like sugar daddies or peer pressure. Walk with dignity and purpose, because whatever you do, you carry the flag of Botswana”

As they prepare represent the nation on global platforms, including the Miss Universe stage they were reminded that true beauty lies in their ability to think boldly, act responsibly, and lead with grace. ENDS