22 Sep 2026

In a colourful celebration of culture and identity, this year’s Miss Independence Kgatleng  turned the spotlight away from conventional pageantry as contestants graced the stage at Leobo la Bakgatla in traditional attire on Saturday.

Kopo Keamogetswe was crowned Miss Independence Kgatleng, with Peo Ramere named first princess while Bontle Ntshabele became second princess.

In the male category Bame Motshegwe was crowned Male Ambassador while Temo Masaseng was named First Prince.

Unlike the usual pageantry practice which features swimwear or revealing outfits during one of the parades, Miss Independence Kgatleng opted for a culturally themed presentation under the theme: Rooted in Culture, Rising in Excellency.

Deputy Chief of Bakgatla, Kgosi Bana Sekai, said he agreed to host the pageant at the main kgotla after organisers assured him that contestants would observe the cultural standards expected at the sacred venue.

Kgosi Sekai said attire that exposed too much of the body was traditionally unacceptable at the kgotla, which remained one of the most respected institutions and spaces for preserving and displaying Sekgatla culture.

He commended Miss Independence Kgatleng for meeting the expectations and said the event was particularly significant as Batswana celebrate 60 years of independence.

He urged Batswana to respect and uphold their culture and ensure that it remained visible in contemporary activities.

Guest speaker, Mohumagadi Mma Matshego, said pageantry should not be viewed merely as a competition, but as a platform that came with responsibility.

She said although pageantry was traditionally associated with women, men had increasingly joined the industry, creating opportunities for contestants to use their platforms to make a difference in their communities and the country.

Mohumagadi Mma Matshego urged contestants to understand who they were and what they stood for, saying self-respect, good character and personality were essential for anyone seeking to make an impact in society.

She also encouraged contestants to remain true to themselves regardless of whether they won or lost, noting that respect was an important societal value that promoted order.

She called for continued mentorship of children and young people, saying lifelong guidance was necessary to help them navigate the challenges of life and build a better future. Mohumagadi Mma Matshego also addressed gender-based violence, describing it as a continuing challenge in society, urging women and young people to remain vigilant and protect themselves. 

Miss Independence Kgatleng Director, Ms Lebopo Bulayani, said the pageant, which started in 2015, had grown over the years and produced young men and women who continued to make an impact in society.

She said the decision to host this year’s pageant at the Bakgatla main kgotla was intended to demonstrate that pageantry could celebrate and promote culture.

Ms Bulayani said pageant was an award-winning youth empowerment that sought to improve the lives of young people in Kgatleng and across Botswana.

She said the organisation empowered young people through life skills training, outreach to less-privileged communities, grooming boys and girls, and mentoring youth into adulthood.

She added that the pageant also  promoted culture and encouraged young people to embrace their origins, while participating in the BOTS 60 Kgatleng celebrations.

Ms Bulayani expressed appreciation to sponsors for their continued support, including financial and other assistance, which she said contributed to the success of the pageant. ends