15 Oct 2024

A jubilant mood prevailed in Thamaga on Monday as residents welcomed their very own Miss Universe Botswana, Dr Thanolo Keutlwile who is set to represent the country in the Miss Universe finals in Mexico.

The homecoming event was therefore used as a platform to shower her with blessings and applaud the queen for bringing the crown home.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Director of Gender in the Ministry of Youth, Gender, Sport and Culture, Thapelo Phuthego hailed the pageant for encouraging equal treatment of women and for emphasising their capability in leadership.

She said Miss Universe Botswana was now entering into an international stage at a very convenient time after Miss World Africa, Lesego Chombo and Olympic Champion, Letsile Tebogo paved way for other younger people, showing the world how capable Batswana were.

“Go and represent the country and showcase our culture including what the country is made of,” she said.

Phuthego further advised Dr Keutlwile to avoid negative comments on social media but rather be selective on what to take in, adding that this would guide her to have a positive mindset.

Meanwhile, the director of Miss Universe Botswana Safie Sekgwa appreciated Thamaga residents for gracing the ceremony.

Sekgwa said the pageant promoted the country’s tourism, arts and culture.

He encouraged Batswana to support the queen and further noted that the organisation was still accepting donations that would assist the Miss Botswana Universe as she prepares for the grand finale.

For her part, Dr Keutlwile commended her family for their unwavering support and allowing her to join Miss Universe Botswana.

Dr Keutlwile advised the youth to always seeks blessings from their families in any endeavour they wished to pursue  for them to get the necessary support.

 She urged them not to take their  dreams lightly but rather work on them to turn them into reality. Former Member Parliament for Thamaga/Kumakwane Palelo Motaosane said he was proud of Dr Keutlwile as she had grown to be respectful and responsible and wished her all the best. 

Kgosi Bone Gobuamang of Thamaga also applauded Dr Keutlwile for her achievements. ENDs