14 Apr 2026

Moving to a new country in pursuit of better opportunities is a bold and often daunting step, but for Leatile ‘LATTY’ Motlhalamme, it has proven to be a transformative journey marked by growth and resilience.

“Brave is moving to another country with a suitcase and a plan, visas, contracts, a new landlord, a new bank, figuring out a city where nobody knows your name, learning new systems, carrying a bed up a staircase, and still waking up hungry for more. Anyone who does that is unshakeable,” said Motlhalamme, reflecting on his relocation to South Africa in search of greener pastures in the entertainment industry.

Hailing from Gabane, Motlhalamme is steadily cementing his place in South Africa’s competitive music scene. His passion for showbiz began in childhood, when he dreamt of performing on children’s programmes such as Mantlwaneng and competing in talent shows. However, like many Batswana households, his ambitions were initially discouraged by his family, particularly his grandmother who raised him.

Despite this, his love for music endured.

“Music makes me happy, and as an emotional child, it helped me through difficult times. I cannot doubt my love for the art,” he said.

A graduate of YDJ Academy, Motlhalamme has always been drawn to emotional and spiritual sounds, naturally gravitating towards afro house and afrotech. His dedication paid off in 2025 when he won a YAMA Best Amapiano Song award for a collaboration with Thato Tladi and Dalom Kids. He encouraged the entertainment sector in Botswana to embrace alliances and partnerships as a way to strengthen, grow and sustain the industry. He urged stakeholders to move away from the perception that collaboration diminishes individual success, emphasising instead that joint efforts often produce greater and more impactful outcomes.

Amapiano is often associated with spirituality, he describes himself as a believer whose spiritual journey is still evolving.

A believer in God word, Motlhalamme still upholds principles and foundations of christianity.

‘I have always had an inquisitive mind and I am still trying to understand a lot of things which would otherwise not make sense, but I believe in God and strongly believe that things do not just come by chance.’

Relocating to South Africa came with its own challenges, forcing him to confront his fears and grow both personally and spiritually.

“I was alone in a foreign country. It pushed me closer to God. I went through a period of sobriety, letting go of anything that could slow me down. It was just me and God, facing my emotions head-on,” he shared.

Although the move had long been part of his vision, he admitted to previously postponing it. In January 2025, he finally took the leap, boarding a bus to Johannesburg to chase his dreams.

Before relocating, Motlhalamme strategically built networks by reaching out to industry players via social media and during visits to South Africa. He also connected with Botswana creative export Jack Botlhoko for guidance.

Upon arrival, he performed at several unpaid gigs to build his portfolio and gain exposure.

“It’s part of paying your dues. You need something solid to show potential clients. But choose free gigs wisely ensure there’s value, like exposure, footage or access to key industry players,” he explained.

His encounter with the duo got him a gig in their lifestyle event which is one of the most celebrated in South Africa, the Friends of Black Motion (FOBM). He later featured in a Black Motion single video Monateng, which later won an award. “ “I am always ready with my USB. Opportunities come when you least expect them,” he said.

Beyond music, Motlhalamme has secured a partnership with Soweto-based fashion brand Project Inflamed, where he features in campaigns and events. Project Inflamed is a  fashion house born in Soweto, Made in Maboneng, with a line defined by fearless creativity and crafted for those with a discerning eye for style.

He has also aligned himself with KUNYE, an afro house platform curated by DJ Shimza, where he has performed and now works as an artist liaison for both KUNYE and Best of Both Worlds events.

The role has allowed him to network with top artists such as Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa and Sun-El Musician, while gaining insight into large-scale event production.

This has been a lesson for him because he is able to appreciate and understand how successful events are curated in South Africa.

Within a year of relocating, Motlhalamme released his hit single Aftermath, featuring Motswana vocalist Kali Mija. The track has performed well on local charts and received strong airplay.

The single was released under Dance Africa Records, though LATTY has since launched his own label, PULA Recording.

Although he would have loved to release his new single under his own record, Motlhalamme said he needed to learn the systems, work with experienced people and experts before he does it on his own.

“Even great artists started somewhere; learning systems from those who were already in the game, the likes of Jay Zee and PDiddy for example,” he said.

He plans to release more music this year as he continues to build his international profile.

Despite his success, Motlhalamme revealed he is currently not accepting bookings in Botswana, citing concerns over fair compensation. ENDS