07 Apr 2025

For Ruth Thomas, a simple audition flyer was all it took to ignite a dream she had always carried within her; the dream of becoming part of the Miss Botswana pageant.

Little did she know that this step will change her life forever as she won the prestigious coveted title of Miss Botswana on March 23, joining a long lineage of beauties that have held the title since 1956.

“I’ve always wanted to join Miss Botswana, but I was never really sure about when or how,” said a poised Thomas in an interview. “Then when they released their audition flyer, I thought, ‘I’m going to do it now.”

For the 23-year-old Masunga-born queen, the journey did not begin at the Miss Botswana Top 30 selection.

Instead, it started with her studies in clothing and textiles at the Humana People to People institution under the Selebi Phikwe Economic Diversification Unit where she earned a certificate.

She later joined the Miss Top Model Botswana 2023 pageant and achieved notable milestones, including working as a beauty advisor at Clicks and Foschini stores.

“I’m very passionate about all things beauty,” she said.

“I see myself venturing into the fashion industry in the future and making a mark in the beauty space,” she added. 

She envisions uplifting Botswana’s traditional fashion by incorporating it into everyday wear, ensuring it remains a part of daily life rather than being reserved for special occasions.

Reflecting on the challenges she faced as a contestant, Thomas admitted that she had to learn quickly and adapt, drawing inspiration from the more experienced competitors around her.

“Initially, I compared myself to some of the ladies because of their backgrounds, the privileges they were born into, because I come from a very humble home,” she shared. 

However, she added that when it came to her looks, she had learnt to embrace herself fully. 

“I think self-acceptance is my greatest weapon. Nobody can look better than me because I am uniquely me. That mindset has been a game-changer in my life.”

Thomas also spoke about her Beauty With A Purpose project, The Beauty Movement; an initiative aimed at teaching children the importance of acceptance and supporting women in prisons, rape survivors, and those permanently affected by accidents.

“The goal is to help them appreciate life and understand that they are special,” she said.  

“Each of us has our own unique fingerprints. Imagine how many billions of people exist in the world, yet there is only one you. That’s the power of individuality.”

Faith plays a central role in Thomas’ life and she revealed that her belief in God had been a fundamental source of strength, enabling her to navigate situations beyond her control. “I am fully Christian, a firm believer, and I trust God completely. I can’t imagine facing life without Him,” she shared candidly.

She attributed her success to the unwavering support of her family, who had nurtured her faith and love.

“I’ve always been a child of prophecy. So much greatness has been spoken over my life since childhood, and my family embraced that because they knew what was coming,” she said. ENDS