“Lights, camera, ACTION!” Botswana’s fashion scene is strutting into the global spotlight with the flair of a peacock in full display. Fresh off the heels of the Forbes Under 30 Summit, the buzz is palpable and the energy electric. Move over, zebras and elephants—the true stars here are the designers and trendsetters transforming every sidewalk into a catwalk. The show featured a plethora of talented designers from the Southern African region, the likes of which included Moitshepi Mokaila of “Indecisive”, Mboko Basiami from Glotto, Kanyo Molale from “Kanyo M Atelier” and Angolan designer Beatriz Franck showcasing her self titled brand on the runway.
The recent Forbes Under 30 event might have wrapped up, but its afterglow continues to illuminate the brilliance of Botswana’s style pioneers, the most brightly lit of which seems to be The Empire BW; the modeling agency that delivered the muses and ethereal guides that set the runway ablaze during the show.
Founded in early 2013, The Empire BW is the oldest and most successful model management agency in Botswana. Mr. Dintwe, affectionately known as King Vanderbilt has built the company into an industry powerhouse, boasting a portfolio with campaigns from ‘Collections by BK Proctor’, ‘Mascom’, ‘Angel Enterprises’ and, most recently, Forbes Under 30.
Not only was the Fashion Dynamo one of the Under 30 Delegates, he was also the Creative mind behind the entire fashion show, bringing together the brilliance of the talented designers showcasing their pieces as well as the incredible collection of models that strutted their stuff for us last Monday.
Could this be a signifier of the growing fashion culture in Botswana? Perhaps one that could rival Japan or the United States?
Meet the Creative: Moitshepi Mokaila
In an exclusive interview with us, Moitshepi Mokaila, Founder of Indecisive (Botswana) had this to say about how Botswana can gain more acclaim and recognition on the international stage:
“We need to be very mindful about what international quality control looks like. We need to engage with people like BOBS (Botswana Bureau of Standards) but also above and beyond, make sure you are doing your own research to be adhering to international standards, knowing that something like Fashion hasn’t been something that has been heavily exported.”
Ms.Mokaila seems to carry a very optimistic but grounded outlook on the direction of the local fashion scene, highlighting issues like quality assuarance as being crucial to the development of the Botswana name on the international fashion scene.
Though Moitshepi carries an inherently positive attitude about the industry, one must not believe there exists no obstacles for her and other designers. “Finding like minded individuals…”, she said, when asked about some of the major challenges designers, including herself, face in the local fashion scene. According to the designer, having discernment about who you work with and in what seasons you work with them is crucial to navigating this issue.
The synergy between The Empire BW and designers like Moitshepi signals a burgeoning fashion culture in Botswana, one poised to make monumental strides. The energy and creativity emanating from this dynamic collaboration are palpable, hinting at a future brimming with potential and groundbreaking achievements.
As Botswana’s fashion scene continues to captivate the world with its vibrant and innovative spirit, the country’s designers and visionaries like Moitshepi Mokaila and Letlhogonolo “King” Dintwe are setting new benchmarks in creativity and quality. Their relentless pursuit of excellence and adherence to international standards signify a transformative era for Botswana’s fashion industry. This burgeoning movement, highlighted by the recent Forbes Under 30 Summit, not only underscores the immense potential within the Southern African region but also hints at a future where Botswana could stand shoulder to shoulder with the fashion capitals of the world.
Like a peacock in full display, Botswana’s fashion scene is strutting into the global spotlight, flaunting its unique blend of traditional elegance and contemporary flair. The dazzling efforts of agencies like The Empire BW and the inspired work of designers are crafting a narrative that blends cultural heritage with cutting-edge design. This commitment to quality assurance, as emphasized by Ms. Mokaila, ensures that Botswana’s creations not only meet but exceed global expectations.
In the grand tapestry of global fashion, Botswana is weaving its unique pattern—one that is rich with cultural heritage, brimming with innovative designs, and driven by a passionate community of creators. As the international spotlight shines ever brighter on this African jewel, the world watches with bated breath, ready to embrace the next big name in fashion that emerges from the heart of Botswana. The runway, it seems, is just the beginning. The peacock’s display, vivid and bold, mirrors the vibrant promise of Botswana’s fashion future, heralding an era where every step on the catwalk tells a story of creativity, resilience, and unparalleled beauty.
“Ya na Pula ko Botswana.”
The San African 