BLACK MAGIC
ANIMATION GA SE DIPOPAE HELA!
Ononofile Lonkokile
Voodoo ‘s inhouse Animator Bakang Molefi who studied in the Americas enlightens us on his career and more
1. Can you tell us a bit about your background?(Educational background, qualifications)
• I find it easy to communicate expectations beforehand and honesty goes a long way. Sometimes showing Work in Progress is helpful as well because the client gets to have input in the production.
• I attained my college degree in Animation at College for Creative Studies in Detroit
2. How does the American animation industry differ from the one in Botswana?
• The American animation industry is much larger, with more established studios, advanced technology, and significant resources for production and distribution. In contrast, Botswana’s animation industry is still growing, with fewer resources and opportunities.
3. How would you describe your animation style? Have you developed it over time, or is it something that came naturally to you from the start?
• My animation style is mostly combining both 2D and 3D elements to produce captivating compositions. It is also enhanced by using extreme ‘ease-ease’ functions: where the object motion starts slowly then suddenly speeds up, then stops slowly as it begins.
4. Is there a particular type of animation (2D, 3D, stop motion, etc.) that resonates with you more than others? Why?
• I resonate with 3D Motion Graphics more than others because it offers abundant opportunities for experimenting, using diverse tools and technology, as well as incorporating all forms of animation; 3D, 3D, stop motion, and traditional animation.
5. What has been the most challenging part of your career as an animator so far?
• The animation industry is evolving every day and more technologies and tools are developed. I find it challenging to afford the necessary hardware and software. This is a huge challenge because it makes experimenting, testing and simulations almost unattainable.
6. Is there a specific project that you’re especially proud of?
• I am particularly proud of the work Voodooad created for Nandos. The International Grillers 2024 competition project.
7. How do you see AI and automation influencing the world of animation? Are you excited about these advancements, or do you have concerns?
• While I’m excited about the possibilities, I do have concerns about the potential for over-reliance on AI, which could lead to a loss of personal touch and artistic expression in animation. Balancing technology with human creativity will be key.
8. How do you handle client’s expectations vs what is actually possible?
9. Are there any artists from other disciplines (visual arts, music, theater, etc.) whose work you admire and draw inspiration from?
• Stephen Bennet visual artist, Wilson Ngoni visual artist, and Nicholas Montemarano the author
10. What do you think about the perception that animation is just cartoons?
• Seeing animation as “just cartoons” can really limit how we view it and overlook the depth and creativity that animation can offer. Animation isn’t just for kids; it covers many genres, styles, and age groups. It’s a medium that tells complex stories, showcases artistic talent, and can even address challenging ideas.
Editor’s Note
And with that, the 2024 season comes to an end… As the year draws to a close, we pause to reflect on a period defined by monumental shifts and outstanding achievements.
Botswana witnessed a historic moment as Duma Boko assumed the presidency, ushering in a new chapter of leadership and hope for the nation. Adding to our pride, Lesego Chombo was crowned Miss Africa, representing our nation with grace, intelligence, and beauty on the continental stage. As if that weren’t enough, she also made history as a newly appointed Minister of Youth & Gender Affairs, demonstrating the rising power of young, dynamic leaders.
In sports, Ross Branch continued his dominance in motorsports, blazing trails and making us proud on international tracks. Meanwhile, Letsile Tebogo sprinted into global acclaim, winning a gold medal at the Olympics and solidifying his place as one of the most electrifying athletes of our time.
On a somber note, gender-based violence remains a pressing issue, with cases continuing to rise and women bearing the brunt of this crisis. This tragic reality serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for collective action.
As we bid farewell to 2024, we take with us the lessons it has taught us — lessons of resilience, leadership, and the importance of unity in addressing our challenges. May 2025 be a year where we strive to do better, not only in celebrating our achievements but also in creating a safer and more inclusive society for all.
Ononofile Lonkokile
THE CAULDRON
Islamic and Sustainable Finance: Botswana’s gateway to economic diversification
Botswana faces the challenge of an economic contraction resulting from a drop in its diamond revenues. The adoption of not only Islamic finance but sustainable finance and the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) paradigm can provide an important window to create a stronger and more diversified economy. Therefore, it is imperative for Botswana to apply ethical financing and mobilise resources in the sustainable sectors in order to reduce the effects of the economic shocks.
Botswana could take the economic shocks in its stride and also begin to build an economic bulwark for future stability and development through the use of ethical financing models and mobilising investments in the different sectors.
The Islamic finance sector has been growing at a remarkable rate whereby in LSEG Islamic Finance Development Report 2023 assets are estimated to be
worth more than 6.5 trillion US dollars by 2027. Although, In Africa growth has been less than satisfactory as there are challenges like low financial literacy and absence of policies as stated by Global Finance Magazine. This presents a potential opportunity for the Botswana banking sector, its government, and the Botswana Institute of Chartered Accountants to embark on the quest for the adoption of Islamic finance.
This article will therefore address some of the issues of how the application of Islamic finance perspectives together with sustainable investments and ESG in Botswana will benefit the country effectively and efficiently in both numeric and narrative ways. Understanding Islamic and Sustainable Finance
Thabiso Thamage
THE CAULDRON
Islamic Finance
The principles of Islamic finance are based on the principles of their religion especially Sharia law which seeks to ban interest (riba), and promote risk sharing and responsible investment. As reported by the Islamic Financial Services Board, Sharia-compliant financial assets across the globe reached USD 2.88 trillion in 2020 indicating significant potential expansion possibilities for Sharia-compliant finance markets.
Sustainable Finance and ESG
Sustainable finance aims to internalise long-term environmental social and governance (ESG) issues into the underpinning financial decisionmaking process. Botswana is confronted with the challenge of an economic contraction resulting from a drop in its diamond revenues. The adoption of not only Islamic finance but sustainable finance and the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) paradigm can provide an important window to create a stronger and more diversified economy. Therefore, it is imperative for Botswana to apply ethical financing and mobilise resources in the sustainable sectors in order to reduce the effects of the economic shocks.
The current administration of Botswana, which is led by the Umbrella for Democratic Change, seeks to attract a minimum of P100 billion in investments each year, domestical or foreign within the country. Islamic finance together with ESG models creates a conducive and a pragmatic environment for secure investment and development within an even more sustainable envelope.
Reasons for Positive Economic Consequences
Financial Inclusion
Due to the increasing proportion of young population, research indicates that expanding Sharia compliant micro finance is more likely to be successful norms in many villages which is able to help these villagers overcome some of the barriers and be able to start businesses leading towards poverty eradication. It has been noted by The World Bank that in these rural areas, the higher the financial inclusion, the increase in GDP, and even in social equality.
Mmegi Newspaper which is based in Botswana CNN, Africanews, and BBC articles published this week reported that this year local financial institutions have increased sustainable development goals debt transactions, in this case ABSA and Stanbic Bank Botswana joined hands in February to lend Norsad R680 million for inclusion finance and other aspects such as women and youth.
GDP Size Diversification and Growth
Looking at Trade and Export, 80% of Botswana’s exports are diamonds, one of the budding sectors undergoing a global downfall, the country’s GDP is likely to shrink in the following years unless expansion takes place.
In addition, green sukuk (Islamic bonds) would also serve to lure foreign direct investments into sectors that are sustainable. Given the enormous budgets needed for infrastructural and agricultural development, the World Bank and the Islamic Development Bank view these green sukuk as strategies which can be utilized to support such projects in Botswana without straining the country’s developmental budget.
In December 2023, Absa Bank became the first ever to list the first locally issued sustainable bond in Botswana worth P2 billion. The bonds are aimed at financing local social, green and sustainability projects with a special emphasis on environmental financing advisory services.
THE CAULDRON
The Strategic Power of Sub-Brands: A Guide for Botswana Businesses
Laone Mokara
In Botswana’s evolving marketplace, local companies are increasingly finding themselves at a crossroads: how to grow their business while maintaining their core identity and customer base. Sub-branding emerges as a powerful solution, allowing businesses to expand their reach while protecting their established market position.
Understanding Sub-Brands in the Botswana Context
A sub-brand is a secondary brand that operates under a parent brand while maintaining its own distinct identity. For Botswana businesses, this strategy can be particularly effective given our market’s unique characteristics:
- Strong community ties and word-of-mouth influence
- Growing urban-rural divide in consumer preferences
- Increasing competition from regional and international brands
- Rising middle class with diverse needs
Strategic Benefits for Local Businesses
1. Market Expansion Without Cannibalisation
Local success story Sefalana Holdings demonstrates how effective subbranding can be. By operating both Sefalana Shopper (mainstream retail) and Sefalana Quick (convenience stores), they serve different market segments without internal competition.
2. Targeting Different Price Points
Consider how businesses can use sub-brands to capture different market segments:
- Premium offerings for urban professionals
- Mid-range products for the growing middle class
- Value options for price-sensitive consumers
This approach allows companies to maintain premium positioning while still capturing value-conscious customers.
Practical Implementation Strategies
1. Clear Brand Architecture
- Maintain distinct visual identities while keeping brand connection clear
- Develop separate marketing messages for each sub-brand
- Ensure each sub-brand has its own clear value proposition
2. Cultural Considerations
Remember to:
- Respect traditional values in branding
- Consider local language variations for different regions
- Acknowledge the importance of community in brand positioning
3. Distribution Strategy
- Carefully plan distribution channels to avoid overlap
- Consider geographic segregation where appropriate
- Use different retail partners for different sub-brands
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
1. Unclear brand differentiation
2. Insufficient resource allocation
3. Poor communication between brand teams
4. Inconsistent quality across sub-brands
Success Factors for Botswana Businesses
1. Strong market research before launch
2. Clear communication of each sub-brand’s unique value
3. Consistent quality across all brands
4. Proper resource allocation for each sub-brand
5. Regular monitoring of brand performance and market reception
The Way Forward
For Botswana businesses considering sub-brands, the key is to start with a clear strategy that considers:
- Market gaps and opportunities
- Target audience needs
- Available resources
- Long-term business objectives
Crucially, businesses should consider engaging professional brand strategists and consultants early in the process. These experts can:
- Provide objective market analysis
- Help develop clear brand architecture
- Guide positioning strategies
- Protect the equity of the parent brand
- Ensure alignment between business objectives and brand strategy
- Navigate potential pitfalls based on experience
While it may seem like an additional investment, professional strategic guidance can prevent costly mistakes and ensure the sub-brand launch strengthens rather than dilutes the parent brand’s market position.
By carefully planning and executing a sub-brand strategy, local businesses can expand their market presence while maintaining their core brand strength.
THE CAULDRON
The Age of Subscription
Tumisang Gasemotho
The subscription economy has fundamentally shifted how we consume products and interact with brands. Once limited to magazines and newspapers, subscriptions now span nearly every industry. Today, we subscribe to films, office equipment, personal care, and even cars. This shift has transformed consumption from one-off purchases into ongoing relationships, pushing brands to prioritise convenience, flexibility, and personalisation.
Historically, buying meant ownership—a sense of pride, exclusivity, and identity. Now, access is the new ownership. We no longer need to own music, films, or even wardrobes. Streaming platforms like Netflix and Spotify allow access without ownership, a mindset that has spread to fashion, home essentials, and software services. This access-over-ownership shift reflects new consumer values: convenience, adaptability, and experience. With subscriptions, consumers can experiment and adapt without long-term commitments.
Subscription models foster ongoing relationships. Rather than waiting for customers to return, brands now proactively deliver products or services based on user preferences, creating regular touchpoints that build loyalty and trust. For consumers, this dynamic feels personalised. Services track behaviour and tailor offerings to each unique profile, creating a sense of exclusivity and making consumers feel valued.
The shift also redefines loyalty. Traditional programmes, like discounts, aim to encourage repeat purchases, but subscriptions reward ongoing engagement with constant value. This “value-first” approach incentivises brands to innovate and improve, ensuring subscribers feel integrated into the brand experience rather than bound by costs alone.
As someone who subscribes to Spotify, Netflix, and Prime Video, I can personally relate to the impact of the subscription model. Combined, I spend
hundreds of Pula each year on these services. The thought of losing access to my playlists, shows, and films is unsettling. I live in constant fear of unsubscribing and missing out on the content that brings me joy. It’s more than just convenience—it’s the security of having access to personalised entertainment that is constantly evolving.
However, this model isn’t without drawbacks. Subscription fatigue is common, with fees adding up quickly, and consumers may find themselves paying for services they rarely use. Cancellations are sometimes complicated, locking consumers into services they no longer need. The access-overownership model can also create dependency, where ongoing payments become necessary to maintain access. Privacy concerns arise, too, as personalisation relies heavily on tracking consumer data, which can feel intrusive.
While subscriptions have reshaped brand-consumer relationships and redefined convenience, flexibility, and access, they also come with recurring costs, data concerns, and the mental burden of managing multiple services. As a consumer, I weigh the benefits against the drawbacks and often find myself reassessing what truly adds value to my life.
In the end, subscriptions have redefined what it means to connect with and relate to a brand. As the subscription economy grows, consumers are likely to favour brands that offer personalised, reliable, and value-driven experiences, but they must also navigate the cons that come with it.
THE CAULDRON
The Silent Influencers: Are We Expecting Too Much?
Ononofile Lonkokile
The year 2024 was a voting year for Botswana, and everyone had a part to play— encouraging voting, voting, and speaking up about it. It wasn’t about aligning with any particular political party, but simply encouraging participation. Influencers and celebrities have been accused of staying unusually quiet during the political climate surrounding the previous regime. But now, with a fresh opposition party in power, the floodgates have opened, and these influential voices are suddenly speaking out. It begs the question: Where was all that influence when it was needed the most?
The shift in power saw an opposition party clinching victory, and suddenly, some of the biggest names in the creative and influencer circles are starting to find their voices. For years, influencers, artists, and creatives have been masters of the online space. They’ve used their platforms to promote everything from fashion, alcohol, beauty, homeware trends to almost anything. But when it came to political engagement—and more importantly, encouraging voter turnout or pushing political education—they seemed to be mute.
Now that the opposition party has claimed victory, many of these influencers have come out of the shadows, sharing their post-election insights, reflecting on the “changes” they hope to see.
Creatives and influencers—whether Tiktoker, Youtuber or artist they hold a special kind of sway over their audience. Whether it’s a tweet, an Instagram post, or a viral video, their words and actions can influence everything from trends to personal beliefs. Sure, it’s easy to post photos from an event or a clothing haul but when it comes to political education, it’s as if the mic was mysteriously dropped. After all, what good is a platform with millions of followers if it isn’t used to advocate for the very democracy that makes such influence possible?
As creatives who stayed silent during the regime change begin to speak out, there’s been a surge of public pushback. People are questioning the authenticity of these voices now that the opposition has taken office. “Where were you when we needed you?” O ne o le bokgakala bo kae! is the unspoken sentiment hanging in the air.
Ultimately, the question remains: What role should creatives and influencers play in politics? The answer is simple: They should be active participants, not passive bystanders. Silence might seem safe in the moment, but it’s a missed opportunity to create impact and be a voice for change.
Lechono weeeee, well and more!
Do we really understand Botswana’s consumer landscape?
Senatla Seboko
Disclaimer: This article is based on observation, a hint of fact from various sources, and should be treated as a thought piece.
If you haven’t said or heard the phrases “Eh, ke chonne mo go maswe” or “Kgwedi e paraletse,” then this article might not be for you, but keep reading. Botswana’s consumer market is undergoing profound shifts, largely influenced by inflation and economic pressures. As prices rise and purchasing power diminishes, consumers are increasingly cautious, focusing on essentials and seeking value for money. For businesses, this shift raises a critical question: should marketing efforts center on building strong brand identities or emphasize the product’s practical benefits?
A few months ago, I did a post on LittleData that looked at telltale signs of a shifting economy, based on general observations that Batswana’s purchasing power has dwindled under mounting economic challenges. The second post examined the sheer inflation of goods that people are buying. For instance, in 2017, a 5KG bag of rice cost around P45 (give or take, depending on the retailer), but now it costs anywhere from P80 to P100. A whole chicken, which once set you back about P50, now costs P70 to P85. In a market where consumer psychology plays a significant role, Botswana presents unique challenges. The main issue is a lack of consumer-focused studies that examine how brands can strategically balance brand versus product-centered advertising. Without deeper research, marketing here remains largely guesswork.
I’ve categorised Botswana’s consumers into distinct types to better understand their spending behaviour with a focus on a more budget conscience group:
1. Thrifty Spender: Focuses on essentials, avoids luxuries, motivated by affordability and need.
2. Budget-Conscious Planner: Prioritizes long-term goals, values stability, and plans purchases carefully.
3. Bargain Hunter: Actively seeks deals, discounts, and promotions to stretch their budget.
4. Debt-Dependent Spender: Relies on loans, credit, or hire-purchase options for larger items, influenced by payment flexibility.
5. Status-Seeking Spender: Drawn to brands that reflect aspirations, prestige, or luxury
Brand advertising typically aims to create an emotional connection, fostering loyalty over time. However, there is growing skepticism about brand loyalty’s staying power. In the U.S., for instance, a study found that 57% of Gen Z consumers are less brand-loyal than before the pandemic, with 77% willing to try new brands. This trend may reflect broader shifts in consumer sentiment globally, potentially including Botswana.
Conversely, product-centered advertising highlights tangible benefits—like durability or cost-effectiveness—which appeals to Batswana who are conscious of each pula they spend. This approach aligns well with Thrifty Spenders, Bargain Hunters, and BudgetConscious Planners by emphasizing a product’s practical value.
Finding the right balance between brand and product advertising is essential for engaging Botswana’s diverse consumer base. Brand advertising can build emotional connections, while product-centered advertising often delivers immediate results, especially in challenging economic conditions.
However, without in-depth consumer data, many businesses rely on assumptions and partial insights that may not apply across Botswana’s varied demographics. For marketers, understanding what drives spending in each segment is crucial but difficult to attain without better research.
Ultimately, Botswana’s consumer landscape is complex, and businesses need to recognise these unique spending patterns to connect effectively. Until there is more accessible market research, brands will continue navigating a challenging terrain where strategic decisions rely on a mix of intuition and observation. This article underscores the need for deeper insights, encouraging marketers to appreciate the distinctiveness of the Botswana market and to offer tangible value that resonates across economic divides.
ARTS & LIFESTYLE
The Thin Line Between Coping and Abuse: Go bo sega kana go fetelela!
Should prominent figures pay for unsolicited portraits?
Ononofile Lonkokile
With the inauguration of Botswana’s new president, Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, a wave of artists quickly grabbed their brushes to paint his portrait.Are these pieces created as genuine tributes, or are some artists simply chasing clout by associating themselves with a trending figure?
In today’s fast -paced world, many individuals turn to alcohol as a means of coping with stress, anxiety or emotional turmoil. While moderate drinking is often seen as a social activity or a way to unwind, it can sometimes blur the lines into alcohol abuse.
For some, a glass of wine or a cocktail may provide temporary relief from the pressures of daily life. This behaviour can be a natural response, allowing individuals to momentarily escape their feelings or circumstances. However, when alcohol consumption begins to escalate or becomes a primary method of coping, it may signal deeper issues and potentially lead to alcohol abuse. According to research, key indicators of alcohol abuse include:
• Increasing tolerance, requiring more alcohol to achieve the same effect.
• Consuming alcohol in larger amounts or over longer periods than intended.
• Neglecting responsibilities, relationships or activities in favour of drinking.
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking.
Relying too heavily on alcohol can create a cycle of dependency, leading to physical, emotional and social repercussions. It can impair judgement, affect relationships and even worsen the very issues that individuals are trying to manage, such as anxiety or depression.
Health researchers teach that recognising the difference between a healthy coping strategy and harmful patterns is crucial. Health experts’ advice that, instead of turning to alcohol, individuals might explore alternatives such as:
• Engaging in physical activity or exercise.
• Practising mindfulness or meditation.
• Seeking support from friends, family or professionals.
While using alcohol as a temporary escape can be understandable, it is vital to be aware of the signs of abuse. Prioritising healthier coping mechanisms not only promotes long-term well-being but also enhances one’s ability to manage life’s challenges effectively.
Historically before photography, portraits were the primary means of preserving the likenesses of influential people for future generations. Often commissioned by the subjects themselves these works guaranteed the artist’s compensation and established a clear understanding of purpose and value.
Today, public figures, particularly newly appointed leaders, continue to inspire artists who feel drawn to honour them. However in many cases, these portraits are created without any request or commission from the subject. For artists it can be a way of paying tribute, expressing admiration, or even drawing attention to their own work by associating it with a public figure.
Recently, social media was abuzz with the story of an artist whose sculpture of the BK Proctor logo was rejected by the brand, with many calling the work substandard and not up to the brand’s quality standards. The artist was reportedly persistent, messaging BK Proctor for acknowledgment and even delivering the sculpture in person, only to have it declined and asked to take it back. South African radio personality, musician, and podcaster Sol Phenduka tweeted that sometimes you just have to appreciate the art and move on without feeling pressured to buy a portrait simply because it’s well made. He noted that if he bought every unsolicited portrait of himself, he would have a lot!
Artist Oteng Keabetswe of Talboi Arts says he has created unsolicited art to gain followers, inspire the public to want portraits of themselves, and share his work as free marketing. He adds that it can be disappointing when the art doesn’t trend, as it may feel like it wasn’t good enough. However, he believes that prominent people, such as the newly elected officials, should not feel pressured to buy all the artwork created, as it is fan art.
Ultimately, the question of purchase depends on the quality and intention behind each piece, with public figures best served by supporting works that are both genuine and worthy of their legacy.
Boipelo Candy Tapologo
ARTS & LIFESTYLE
Dear Paulo Coelho, please don’t do what Earl James did!
Coelho, please don’t turn any of your books into a movie, leave all the readers with something.
While E.L James may have successfully transformed her fun reads into blockbuster films, one can’t help but wonder if Paulo Coelho should steer clear of the Hollywood spotlight.
Coelho’s novels like “The Alchemist” and “Brida” are rich tapestries woven with philosophical musings and deep introspection-perfect for curling up with on a rainy day. However, turning them into movies could risk diluting their enchanting essence into a rigid script with obligatory love scenes and flashy soundtracks. Coelho’s magic lies in his ability to make readers pause, reflect and embark on their own journeys of self-discovery, something that can easily get lost in glitzy visuals and superficial themes. So, let’s keep Coelho’s words where they shine best-on the page, inviting readers to dive deep into their own imaginations rather than watching a stylised version of their soul-searching adventures unfold on screen.
From your loyal reader,
Bathong! Joker Folie à Deux what a letdown!
Ononofile Lonkokile
Joker: Folie à Deux is a sequel to Joker (2019), starring the award-winning Joaquin Phoenix and the incredibly talented musician and actress Lady Gaga—my fellow Aries babe. The excitement I felt when it was announced that she would be playing the Joker’s love interest had me counting down the days to the premiere. But I was ultimately disappointed.
What in the mess was that? The musical elements felt forced, awkwardly squeezed into scenes where they didn’t belong. Why is a serial killer in clown makeup dancing like that in the middle of a prison with guards— why! The film struggled to maintain a balance between reality and delusion, leaving me more confused than captivated. The cinematography was stunning, but it couldn’t save the disjointed storytelling. The first Joker had a sense of realism, exploring themes of mental health, social inequality, and injustice, but with this one, I honestly can’t pinpoint what the premise was. The love interest added little to the story; while Lady Gaga sang well, and both delivered solid musical covers—my favorite being That’s Life by Frank Sinatra—it still didn’t elevate the film. Overall, it was a visually compelling piece, but the uneven execution left much to be desired.
Boipelo Candy Tapologo
ARTS & LIFESTYLE
Pieces of me art series by Talboi Arts
Chenchi ga se ya madi hela!
A journey of reinvention
Tumisang Gasemotho
Reinvention is a powerful concept, yet it’s often one that we don’t anticipate. At the beginning of this year, I set out with clear resolutions, eager to shape a future I had envisioned. However, life had other plans, and the journey I’ve embarked on has been far from what I expected. It’s been a year of growth, surprises, and unexpected turns. From personal changes to professional evolution, I’ve had to continuously adapt, recalibrate, and redefine who I am. This experience has shown me that transformation is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process, one that requires constant reflection, learning, and, perhaps most importantly, the courage to embrace the unknown.
On a personal level, I began to feel the weight of stagnation. On a professional level, as a brand strategist, I could see how quickly the industry was evolving. I realised that if I didn’t keep up, I risked being left behind. Technology and innovation were pushing everything forward, and I had to adapt to stay relevant. “Am I evolving, or am I clinging to what’s familiar?’’
As the world around me changed, I had to reflect on who I wanted to be in this new phase of my life. It’s not just about shifting what I do it’s about understanding who I am in the context of those changes. The process wasn’t easy, but it was necessary. I had to strip away the noise, the expectations, and the fears, and focus on what truly matters: the value I bring to those around me.
In this journey, I’ve learned that clarity is key. I now know that my path forward isn’t about becoming someone else, but rather about embracing my evolving self. Just as brands like Nike focus on empowerment, I realised that my story has to
reflect the empowerment of my own journey and how I can use that to help others. “If I were to tell someone my story in two sentences, what would I say?”
1. Change is a process.
It doesn’t happen all at once, and it certainly doesn’t happen in a straight line. Every day offers an opportunity to take a small step toward where I want to go. For me, this meant constantly learning, refining my skills, and embracing feedback.
Staying
on this path takes discipline.
For a brand strategist like myself, it’s about continuing to experiment, innovate, and adjust. There’s no final destination; it’s the journey of growth that matters most. It’s about building upon what works and letting go of what no longer serves you. “How will I measure my progress, and what habits will keep me on track?”
The path hasn’t always been smooth, and the future is still uncertain, but I’ve come to realise that change isn’t something to fear it’s something to embrace. By staying open to the unexpected and adapting to what comes next, I’ve seen that every twist and turn holds the potential to grow.
As I move forward, I know that I will continue to evolve, just as the world around me does. And in that evolution, I’ll continue to write my story one step at a time, embracing both the challenges and the opportunities that come with it.
YEAR BOOK
Editorial team
Editor: Ononofile Lonkokile
Designer: Emmanuel Mokalake
Digital Editor: Senatla Seboko
Digital Animator: Bakang Molefi
Contributors
Thabiso Thamage
Laone Mokara
Tumisang Gasemotho
Boipelo Candy Tapologo