08 Jan 2026

A strong commitment to his community in Thamaga, coupled with a bold entrepreneurial vision, are the forces that drive Thuso ‘Varaam’ Mohurutshe’s dream of cementing his position as a force to reckon with in the local entrepreneurial space.

His sights firmly set on growing his array of budding businesses, Mohurutshe is committed to do all it takes to ensure his ventures pass the test of time.

His legacy in the business space leads back to the COVID-19 era - a period during which he founded Food Hub, a food joint located in Gaborone’s Block 5 area.

“During this time (of COVID-19), everyone had ample time to think of ideas to make money, and I implemented this idea of an eatery; buying a braai stand, a fryer and some benches for the seating area,” explained Mohurutshe, recounting how the business came into being.

The streetside food joint was a response to a fierce fire that had been burning in his mind; a fire that had seen him dabble in the entertainment scene from his boyhood.

It is the same fire that also saw him later try his hand in logistics. Mohurutshe, one of the new Gen Zs in Botswana’s entrepreneurship sphere, is resolute in his desire to see his efforts evolve into sustainable wealth.

His journey, before and post-COVID-19, offers remarkable lessons on strategic diversification, brand discipline and visionary leadership. Growing up in Thamaga, Mohurutshe’s life was characteristic of that of any other boy, but along the way he developed an interest in dance.

“I had a passion for Sbhujwa dancing, which introduced me to the entertainment industry,” he said, outlining how this step in his journey of life saw him later work his way up the local entertainment ladder.

He cut his teeth at Kings Bar Thamaga, and then moved to Riverside Bar under the management of Mothusi JJ Soloko, after which he proceeded to Groove Lounge, where he continued to make his presence felt.

Working at these bars launched his name in the entertainment industry as a promoter, leading to him later working with Gaabo Motho Music Festival during its second annual gig.

“During the early stages of my work with Gaabo Motho Music Festival in 2019, I developed a concept called Thamaga Food Festival which later transformed to Food Hub Sundays. In 2022, I then came up with something fresh, Into Africa Picnic festival,” he said.

For every project that Mohurutshe puts his mind on, he produces a diverse brand outlook, be it the vibrant pulse of Into Africa Picnic, the calm ambiance of Food Hub or the sense of reliability of his much-loved school transport venture, his crafts share one core value; community connection.

Consistency in his projects, particularly the Into Africa catalogue has over the years increased his presence in the entertainment industry and solidified his status as an inarguably reputable promoter.

The brand has recognised the need to provide a stage for local creativity to thrive, and is setting itself apart as a platform that will undoubtedly nudge local creatives towards them finally being able to reach greater heights.

He has also provided a vast market for the local creative crafts, further growing his community’s creativity across a wider audience.

Although Into Africa Picnic festival has been doing well for the past four years, the persistent lack of sponsors is weighing Mohurutshe down.

He has been curating the event with zero sponsorship since start, and in the entertainment space, such a move is unsustainable, especially for an event that took off on the wings of self-sponsorship.

“Doing this event without sponsors is exhausting and to say I would do it again this year with zero sponsorship would be a lie,” Mohurutshe said, explaining how discouraging it was to be approaching potential sponsors year in and year out with no positive outcome.

Despite this hiccup, his establishments give him a sense of pride. To him they are more than just businesses; they are social spaces where people come together, celebrate, and experience local culture.

Their focus on fostering human connection has made them relatable and authentic, a key ingredient in modern marketing. His success story is tied to his commitment to his community where he also does charity work.

“I am a giver, and it is easy for me to give back to my community and share with them the little that I make out of what I do,” he said, noting that he never hesitates to assist as he strongly believes in giving without expecting anything in return.

“I do not do it for the spotlight, but for the good of my community and what I feel is right at that moment.”

It is because of the sense of pride that comes with being able to positively impact his community that he is determined to push ahead with his combination of showbiz and entrepreneurship even in the face of challenges. BOPA