03 Dec 2018

Mrs Botswana, Keletso Linchwe, will compete in the Mrs Universe pageant scheduled for the Philippines  on December 8.

Speaking in an interview, Linchwe said she was readying for the competition and optimistic that she would bring the crown home.

The 36-year-old, who works as an IT systems manager and administrator, said she was challenged by her husband to enter the competition.

The Serowe born Linchwe said she hoped to inspire all people and show them that it was possible to juggle being a wife, mother and career woman.

She said her journey to the crown included sacrifices and time away from family.

 “It has not been easy. The journey required not only physical strength, but mental and emotional strength as well,” she said.

She said being Mrs Botswana was not only an honor but a blessing that came with enormous responsibility to herself and the country.

 “I perceive Mrs Botswana as a woman who exemplifies a wife, a mother, grace, humility and overall a strong figure who is not afraid to chase her dreams,” she said.

She said she had used the title to extend herself as a caretaker and mother to her own family and the nation as well as being an ambassador for the marriage institution.

Her project, Mosadi Tota or real woman in English aimed at empowering women of all ages.

“Women and girls continue to suffer Gender Based Violence the world over,” she said.

She said a lot still needed to be done especially in the rural areas to empower women.

Linchwe said with a good education, women could be empowered adding that she would add her voice for an improved education system.

She thanked her family and friends, Mrs Botswana director for continuing to work tirelessly to source sponsorship for her air ticket and wardrobe for Mrs Universe as well as companies and individuals who assisted her in her journey to Mrs Universe. ENDS