Miss Tourism World finalist Girly Kookilwe has pledged to use her pageant experience and international exposure to cast her home village of Molepolole in a positive light. The 25-year-old represented Botswana at the Miss Tourism World 2025 pageant in China last month, competing against participants from 75 countries.
At a welcome ceremony held in her honour at Lesimakgosi ward in Molepolole, Kookilwe, who is also the current Miss Botswana second princess, reflected on her experience. She noted that while she did not bring home the Miss Tourism World crown, she gained valuable knowledge, skills, and international exposure that she plans to share with the youth in her village.
“Molepolole has been trending for the wrong reasons yet there are so many good things happening here,” Kookilwe said. “Out of 100, at least 70 per cent are positive stories, but we focus too much on the negative 30 per cent. It’s time we changed that narrative.”
She expressed a strong desire to reshape perceptions about Molepolole and empower young people to take pride in their community. Through her pageant experience, Kookilwe hopes to inspire youth to use their talents constructively and showcase the good that exists in the village.
Kookilwe revealed that she has won 17 beauty titles over the years, accomplishments largely unknown to many in Molepolole. “Most people only got to know me when I competed at Miss Botswana, but I have been doing positive work and representing my country long before that,” she said.
By leveraging her platform, Kookilwe aims to highlight the achievements and potential of Molepolole, encouraging the youth to embrace their talents and contribute to a positive narrative about their community. Her commitment underscores the role of cultural ambassadors in driving local pride and inspiring future generations.
