07 Jan 2024

 Ms Ike Ratlhogo of Semotswane village in Tonota District is a woman on a mission.

The environmental officer who doubles as an author is dedicated to making a difference in the world.

Her passion about protecting and empowering young girls sets her apart and her latest initiative, #Fearlesslight, is gaining popularity and has attracted more than 50 young girls of ages between 13 and 18 years. 

The campaign is designed to give young girls a voice and help them fight for their rights, in a world where girls are often pressurised to conform to certain standards.

#Fearlesslight was launched last year November in Francistown and it encourages girls to embrace their uniqueness and let their light shine. 

“With a message that is both relatable and empowering, #Fearlesslight is a campaign for any girl seeking to find her own voice and strength,” said Ms Ratlhogo who has authored of two books titled  I Fear No More Darkness and You are Beautiful: What Every Girl Needs to Know.

She explained that the #Fearlesslight campaign ‘encourages girls to be bold, not afraid to shine their light and make a difference in the world’.

Ms Ratlhogo further stated that she hoped to inspire a new generation of fearless, radiant young women.

The campaign she said, was based on the idea that girls should be confident in their own skin and not let fear hold them back from pursuing their dreams. She said the goal was to help girls feel empowered and supported in their journey to becoming their best selves.

Ms Ratlhogo emphasised the importance of young girls developing a strong sense of self-worth and self-confidence.

#Fearlesslight draws inspiration from a video titled Leading with Kindness, which features former American first lady, Ms Michelle Obama and lawyer and human rights activist, Ms Amal Clooney, on being brave and bold. 

In the video the two women discuss the importance of standing up for oneself and others, even when it is difficult to do so. The video emphasises the value of leading with kindness and compassion, and encourages viewers to stand up for themselves and for what is right.

Published in 2017, You are Beautiful: What Every Girl Needs to Know’, Ms Ratlhogo said, sent a clear message that every girl was beautiful, no matter what they looked like.

“In a world where body image and appearance are often emphasised, this is a refreshing and important message to share,” she added.

She explained that the title of the book, which she hoped would be used in schools, emphasised that there was more to a person than just their physical appearance, a crucial lesson for young girls to learn.

The book could be an excellent resource for young girls in schools, Ms Ratlhogo said, adding  that it was also an important lessons about self-acceptance and self-love as well as confidence and positivity. 

“It could also open up conversations about body image and self-esteem, which are important topics for young girls to discuss,” said Ms Ratlhogo. ENDS