12 Nov 2026

In an industry where talent, visibility and opportunities often determine success, women in the creative sector are being encouraged to look beyond competition and embrace collaboration as a pathway to collective growth.

This vision lies at the heart of the African Attire Female Annual Music Festival, an initiative spearheaded by Veronica Brooks, popularly known as Botsdiva, through VebDiva Entertainment.

Scheduled for November 28 at Rasesa Lodge, the festival seeks to bring together women across the entertainment industry, creating a platform for musicians, DJs, dancers, masters of ceremonies and other creative service providers to showcase their talents and build meaningful networks.Brooks explained that the initiative was inspired by her observations of the limited support and collaboration among women in the creative industry, despite their shared experiences and professional interests.

She said women sometimes found it easier to seek assistance from men who had established networks and influence, while the talent, experience and resources available among women remain underutilised.

“We wanted to bring women together, put their work in the spotlight and make their networks easier to access. Women were already mentoring artists, producing events and creating opportunities for one another, but much of that work happen behind the scenes,” she said.

Organised under the theme: Bomme Basadi, the festival seeks to celebrate women’s strength, dignity and their contribution as mothers, leaders, creators and builders of society.

Brooks said the theme was intended to encourage women to recognise their collective potential, support one another and create opportunities through collaboration rather than viewing each other as competitors.

The festival’s programme will feature 12 artistes, alongside DJs and MCs, with a line-up comprising established performers and emerging talent from Botswana and South Africa. Among the featured performers are Charma Gal, Maxy Khoisan, Slizer, Mmaausi, Amantle Brown, Mmurubele, Mmaratwa, Punah Gabasiane, Swaggerlady, Tyte, Tshepo G, Nono Siile, Fifi Cooper, TT Tebogo, Zodwa Wabantu and Trica Selala.

The DJ line-up includes DJ Mimi Ramphaleng, DJ Laninah Benz, DJ Mis J and DJ Julia Hunter, while MC Zenzele Hirschfeld, MC Girly, MC Tills and MC Dignity will host the event.

Brooks said the selection of performers was guided by their alignment with the festival’s vision, performance ability, musical diversity and appeal to the audience. She added that the organisers hope to create an environment where established performers could help emerging artists gain exposure, share industry knowledge and establish professional relationships. Beyond entertainment, she envisioned the festival as a starting point for practical collaborations that would continue long after the event.

She said success would not only be measured by attendance or performances, but also by the opportunities generated, including paid bookings, mentorship, business partnerships and meaningful professional introductions.

 “We wanted women to leave knowing that they could approach another woman for support and that they also had something valuable to offer. Sometimes, a simple introduction or recommendation could open an important door,” she said.

However, Brooks disclosed that preparations were continuing without a sponsor, appealing to businesses, organisations and individuals to support the initiative through financial assistance, products, professional services and promotional partnerships.She said such support would help deliver a professional event while strengthening opportunities for women in Botswana’s creative industry. ENDS