The Botswana National Youth Council (BNYC), in partnership with the Gaborone District Office, commemorated International Youth Day yesterday morning under the theme “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.” The session brought together young people and stakeholders from government and private institutions to discuss issues that directly affect the growth and participation of Botswana’s youth. Discussions focused on youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, creativity, inclusion and the need to create meaningful opportunities for young people. Participants also reflected on the importance of ensuring that young people have the resources, platforms and support needed to turn their ideas into practical initiatives. The event highlighted a shared understanding that young Batswana, despite coming from different backgrounds and facing different challenges, have common aspirations for growth, opportunity and a better future.
The session began with words of encouragement from Mr Thobo Khathola, a youth entrepreneur and founder and CEO of Lion Tutoring. Khathola encouraged young people to begin with the resources and opportunities available to them instead of waiting until they have everything they believe they need to pursue their dreams. He urged young people not to compare their progress with the timelines of others, stressing that individuals reach their goals at different stages of life. His message placed emphasis on taking initiative, building confidence and making practical use of available opportunities. For many young people, this approach can be important because the fear of not having enough resources or being behind others can prevent them from taking the first steps towards entrepreneurship or personal development.
Khathola also called for greater access to funding, technology and spaces where young people’s voices can influence decisions that shape their future. He highlighted the importance of creating environments where young people can participate in meaningful discussions and contribute ideas to issues affecting their communities and country. Access to funding remains particularly important for young entrepreneurs who may have promising business ideas but lack the capital required to develop them. Technology and digital platforms can also help young people expand businesses, access information, develop new skills and connect with wider markets. By strengthening these opportunities, Botswana can create greater possibilities for young people to collaborate locally and internationally, including with youth from different countries.
The discussion continued with Mr Thato Kgwedi, a youth in the creative industry and founder of Moonlight Dance Studio, a recognised Botswana dance institution specialising in Latin, Ballroom and Contemporary dance. Kgwedi spoke about the importance of moving beyond dreams and goals by taking action to make them a reality. Reflecting on his own experience, he explained that he established Moonlight Dance Studio in 2016 despite not having dedicated facilities or a sufficient source of income. His journey demonstrated how commitment, perseverance and consistent effort can help an initiative develop even when the starting conditions are difficult. The growth of the studio has enabled his students to participate in international competitions, including competitions in Europe, showing how creative industries can provide opportunities for young people to develop their talents and represent Botswana beyond its borders.
Kgwedi’s experience also demonstrated the wider economic and social value of supporting young people in the creative sector. Dance, music, fashion, design, film and other creative disciplines can provide pathways for entrepreneurship, employment and international engagement when young people receive the right support. His story showed that successful initiatives do not always begin with extensive facilities, large investments or established networks. They can develop through dedication, skill development and a willingness to continue working despite early challenges. Supporting creative entrepreneurs can therefore help young people turn their talents into sustainable ventures while contributing to Botswana’s growing creative economy.
Ms Tsotlhe Ramaredi from the Botswana Association for the Blind and Partially Sighted also contributed to the session, encouraging young people to take initiative and avoid relying solely on government support. Her message reinforced the importance of personal responsibility, determination and active participation in pursuing opportunities. Ramaredi also encouraged persons living with disabilities to believe in their abilities and pursue their aspirations despite the challenges they may encounter. She emphasised that disability should not be viewed as a barrier to achievement and that people living with disabilities are equally capable of pursuing their goals. Her contribution brought an important inclusion perspective to the discussions and highlighted the need for opportunities that allow young people with disabilities to participate fully in social and economic development.
The contributions from the speakers reflected the broader purpose of the International Youth Day commemoration and the theme “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.” Young people may experience different economic circumstances, educational backgrounds, abilities and access to resources, but many share the desire to build successful lives and contribute positively to their communities. Creating inclusive opportunities requires government institutions, private organisations, community structures and young people themselves to work together. Such collaboration can help address barriers related to funding, technology, skills development, entrepreneurship and access to platforms where young voices can be heard. It can also help ensure that youth empowerment reaches young people across different circumstances rather than benefiting only those who already have access to resources.
The commemoration concluded with reflections, comments and words of encouragement from participants representing various government and private institutions. Their contributions reinforced the importance of continued cooperation in developing practical opportunities for young people across Botswana. The discussions showed that youth empowerment involves more than recognising young people’s potential, as it also requires creating conditions in which that potential can be developed and applied. Funding opportunities, access to technology, mentorship, inclusive spaces and support for entrepreneurship and creative industries can all play a role in helping young people become active contributors to society. The event therefore provided an important platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas and strengthen their commitment to creating opportunities that respond to the aspirations of Botswana’s youth.
The International Youth Day commemoration served as a reminder that young people remain an important part of Botswana’s development and future. The experiences shared by Khathola, Kgwedi and Ramaredi demonstrated the value of initiative, perseverance, inclusion and confidence in pursuing personal and professional goals. At the same time, the discussions highlighted that young people need supportive environments where they can access resources, develop their abilities and participate in decisions that affect their future. The theme “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations” captured the central message of the gathering by recognising differences among young people while emphasising the goals they share. Continued collaboration between the Botswana National Youth Council, government institutions, private organisations and young people will be essential in turning these shared aspirations into meaningful opportunities and tangible contributions to Botswana’s development.
