31 Oct 2023

The founder of Life Matters Botswana, a social media platform that addresses relationships and marriage challenges as well as other life traumas, Keorapetse Bakani was the recipient of four awards at the Glitz Awards that recognised local celebrities held on Saturday.

Through his Facebook page, Bakani has impacted on many lives, tackling critical issues such as gender-based violence and connecting people with their loved ones.

His contribution to society was recognized by scooping the titles of Best Styled Male Social Media Influencer, Best Styled Community Builder, Best GBV Activist Personality, and the Best Styled Overall Winner.

Bakani, whose Facebook page has a following of over 215 000 users, said the initiative had assisted individuals facing various life challenges.

“On this page, one can observe people openly sharing their personal struggles and actively seeking counselling,” he said.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Lemogang Kwape, thanked the organisers of the awards for the initiative. He said such events provided an invaluable platform to recognise and honour public figures, particularly celebrities, for their outstanding contribution to society. 

Shedding the light about the  awards, event director, Nkgopolang Tlhomelang, said the initiative started last year and this was its second year of  appreciating celebrities in Botswana.

 According to Tlhomelang, these celebrities could  serve as inspirations for young people to strive for goals beyond their immediate community, making their celebration essential.

Citing examples of Bakani and Lebopo Bulayani, who were some of the celebrities who have shaped the community, he said he  believes believes that they have the power to motivate teenagers to actively engage in community causes and lead a healthy lifestyle, and that their impact extends beyond mere success stories.

He said it was high time for Batswana to appreciate the contribution of celebrities from various sectors who play a role in the country’s economy. He further noted that these celebrities, through their careers, attract global audiences. Tlhomelang also expressed gratitude towards sponsors, including Clicks stores, for their support in response to the initiative.

 He also thanked Botswana Television(Btv),Choppies stores and Prime Media. 

 Other award recipients were Dr Lebo Rathedi who scooped two awards, Best Styled Charismatic Religious Leader and Best Styled Author.

Musician and fashion designer, Fifi Afrika walked away with the Best Styled Fashion Designer and Best Styled Female Hit Maker.

Mmegi photographer Kennedy Ramokone scooped Best Styled Photographer. Ramokone said he felt validated by the recognition, which has also boosted his confidence. Best Styled Person Living with Disability was scooped by Mogomotsi Molapisi.

The Best Styled Radio Media Personality Award went to Radio Botswana’s presenter Botho Mothudi, while the Lifetime Award was given to the Director of Miss Independence Kgatleng, Bulayani, who was honoured for her community building work and helping to change the lives of young people.

Han C, Skelem Key and Mapetla gave an electric perfomance while South African comedian, Sphalaphala, known for her pranks on social media directed the ceremony. Ends