Archive | AVO

Maverick Kabelo speaking at a lectern at the Business and Leadership Expo 2026.

Business & Finance

The 5 questions marketers skip before plugging in AI

At the Business and Leadership Expo in Gaborone, Maverick Kabelo asked a room of marketers a question about their AI tools that most of them had never put to themselves.

Caron Moloi20 Oct 20264 min read

The back of a cream, slightly stained paper envelope on a black background

Poetry

Nothing from you

Hi rra,This is my last letter to you.Your replies have a shelf in the glass cabinet,beside the plates we keep for visitors.I dust it every Sunday.

Maverick Kabelo2 Oct 20261 min read

Two pairs of dark hands held open and close together against a grey cloth backdrop, in soft warm light

Poetry

Nkuku, teach me

I just want to learn, Nkuku,the way your bare palm lifts the hot pot lid,the way you sweep the yard before the sun, the dust smelling of cold,the way your gate stays open to the whole street.You put…

Maverick Kabelo30 Sep 20261 min read

Portrait of an older man with a grey beard, gazing aside, wearing layers of white, brown and turquoise beaded necklaces

Poetry

The heartbroken poem

City lights flicker, In your smile, I find solace, Ocean pulls me away.

Maverick Kabelo11 Feb 20241 min read

State of Digital Summit poster: 24 to 25 April 2024, Ave Maria Pastoral Centre, Kgale, Gaborone, and virtual

Career Development & Inspiration

State of Digital Summit: navigating the future of digital technology in Africa

Save the Dates: April 24th and 25th, 2024Venue: Ave Maria, Kgale, GaboroneLivestreaming Available for Global Participation

AVO3 Dec 20231 min read

A woman in a lime green top stands outdoors under a tree, looking off to the side with her hands clasped

Human Interest Stories

Advocating for men’s mental health

2023’ s International Men’s day is surely set to be a different kind this year.

Kabelo Leon Mbaya22 Nov 20233 min read

A contestant in a black beret, brown faux-fur coat and pleated check skirt walks the runway at a Miss Botswana event

Pageantry

Botswana set to host Miss World 2026

Update, 18 October 2026: Miss World 2026 was held in Vietnam on 5 September 2026; Botswana did not host it. This report is as published in November 2023.

Maverick Kabelo20 Nov 20232 min read

Ntungwa Nkgaswa stands with arms crossed in a royal blue suit, patterned tie and wristwatch, in front of a glass building

Sports

Ntungwa Nkgaswa: From village boy to international basketball star

“You could literally come out of the village and make it international.”

Ripfumelo Chavani30 Oct 20232 min read

Antido.te in a black and white close-up portrait, wearing beaded braids, a white vest and two silver chain necklaces

Music

Antido.te: bouncing back

“The negativity changed me a lot because I strived to become a better person and a better artist.”

Ripfumelo Chavani17 Oct 20235 min read

Jane Khoza smiles, hands on hips, in a yellow embroidered dress among garden plants, beside an old horn gramophone

Human Interest Stories

Cultivating dreams: the inspirational journey of Jane Khoza and Koki’s Garden of Wonder

“I Call My Garden the Garden of Wonder Because It Is Continually Changing”

Ripfumelo Chavani13 Aug 20234 min read

Cover art for Energy by Rasun: the artist leans against a weathered wooden wall, with neon green and pink title lettering

Music review

Energy – Single by Rasun

Jahmal Dinoto is the international musician better known as Rasun for his contribution and creations in reggae, rnb, hip-hop, and a fusion of these and other genres.

Palesa Morailane11 Aug 20232 min read

Thando Makhoba in a black top, braids in a high ponytail and red lipstick, glancing over her shoulder against crimson

Pageantry

Thando Makhoba: Miss World South Africa 2023 quarter finalist

“I was born to reign supreme, this sentence just does it for me.”

Ripfumelo Chavani25 Jul 20236 min read

Kenneth Tebogo Middleton holds a chef's knife upright in front of half his face, in a black T-shirt against white

Foodie

Meet Kenneth Tebogo Middleton: Botswana’s rising foodie and social media star

Kenneth Tebogo Middleton is a rising content creator and foodie from Botswana who has gained a strong following on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

Maverick Kabelo12 Jul 20233 min read

A model in a white Faith Atelier T-shirt, black pencil skirt with front pockets and strappy heels, against a white brick wall

Fashion

Faith Atelier’s fashionable attire

Faith Mabandi is the director and founder of Faith Atelier, which she established in South Africa, in 2014.

Palesa Morailane3 Jul 20237 min read

A woman in a bright pink wide-brimmed hat and purple gown sits smiling, holding a microphone, before an events branding wall

Commentary

Seeing motherhood from a whole different scope

There is a lot that comes to mind when the word ‘mother’ is mentioned.

Kabelo Leon Mbaya23 May 20234 min read

Single cover titled Feeling: a stylised winged figure in a green top and grass skirt stands in a lush green forest

Music

“The Visualizer” by Teddy West: A Must-See Afrobeats music video of 2023

On May 1, 2023, music fans around the world will be treated to a highly anticipated single from Teddy West, the rising Afrobeats star.

Maverick Kabelo17 Apr 20231 min read

A man with a short beard in a cream blazer, white roll-neck and gold rose lapel pin, against a pale grey wall

Performing Arts

Deep Dive Sessions podcast seeks to change the local business landscape

Podcasting is yet to see its growth and becoming a norm to our country.

Kabelo Leon Mbaya27 Mar 20233 min read

Ntombovuyo Ngaphu smiles with her chin on her fist, in a lilac blazer and jeans against a mottled brown backdrop

Career Development & Inspiration

Ntombovuyo Ngaphu: Living a purposeful life through language translation

Breaking the language barriers is her passion.

Ripfumelo Chavani15 Mar 20233 min read

A young man with locs rests his cheek on his hand, looking bored, seated on outdoor steps in a white T-shirt

Poetry

Bored poem

I am Boredom, the silent thief of time, I creep into your days, uninvited, I dull your senses, drain your mind, And make each moment feel divided.

Maverick Kabelo10 Feb 20231 min read

Classmate Online poster in Setswana and English: a schoolgirl with a phone and notebook; www.classmate.co.bw or dial *180#

Commentary

Revolutionizing education: Classmate Online solves critical challenges in the industry

Classmate Online is a revolutionary platform that addresses some of the most pressing challenges facing the education industry today.

AVO2 Feb 20231 min read

A small humanoid robot with a white head sits on a red wooden bench, looking down at a book on its lap

Commentary

Adopting and adapting as AI changes the industry norm

2023 started off with somewhat of a bang!

Tracy Moodley2 Feb 20232 min read

Tshepie Olds with closed eyes and locs, red rose petals in her hair and falling around her, against a soft blue background

Commercial Film Production

Tshepie Olds: Breaking barriers as a female film producer in Botswana

Tshepie Olds is a female Commercial Film producer from Botswana.

Ripfumelo Chavani1 Feb 20233 min read

Five officials in suits and dresses ring small bells in front of a Botswana Stock Exchange backdrop and a trading screen

Business & Finance

BSB successfully lists bond on Botswana Stock Exchange

Botswana Savings Bank (BSB), an indigenous institution wholly owned by the Government of Botswana, has recently made a historic and significant milestone by successfully listing a bond worth P1…

Maverick Kabelo25 Jan 20231 min read

Three roses in pink and orange with a single sharp, spiked thorn standing out between them, framed in a pale oval

Poetry

A thorn among roses

Thorn among roses, Out of place, out of time, Silent, alone, I bloom.

Maverick Kabelo24 Jan 20231 min read

Precious Gondwe smiles with her hands clasped, in a black and white checked double-breasted jacket against a black background

Business & Finance

Precious Gondwe: multi-award-winning pan-African lawyer

Inspiring power woman succeeding in the law industry is not defined by her background.

Maverick Kabelo20 Jan 20233 min read

A silhouetted man sits on a sofa reading in a dim living room, lit only by light through a window blind

Poetry

Dear you

Darkness haunts you through the night,On cue to the idea that sad songs could be your lullaby.But fear remains vibrant in your eyes,Like torture in a blazing furnace.

Tinashe19 Jan 20231 min read

A vintage green typewriter with a sheet of paper reading Copyright Claim

Business & Finance

How to copyright protect your creative work

In Botswana, the protection of copyright and neighboring rights is governed by the Copyright and Neighboring Rights Act, 2000.

Maverick Kabelo15 Jan 20232 min read

Sports

Letsile Tebogo: The rising star of athletics in Botswana

Letsile Tebogo is a young athlete from Botswana who is quickly making a name for himself in the world of athletics.

Maverick Kabelo12 Jan 20232 min read

A man in a black polo with an embroidered red rose and a gold chain looks to the side while seated at a cafe table

Business & Finance

Organizing outdoor festivals in Botswana: A cost analysis

According to the owner of Exzozo Entertainment Agency and the organizer of the popular music festival, Pretty Girls Like Good Music, Godwin Kennedy Sebina a.k.a Xotic Exzozo, putting on a successful…

Maverick Kabelo11 Jan 20231 min read

A woman in a white shirt and a bearded man in a grey T-shirt point at the camera, laughing, before a monochrome portrait

Business & Finance

Learn2Lead: A new mentorship program for emerging corporate leaders

Learn2Lead is a new not-for-profit mentorship program that aims to connect experienced corporate leaders with professionals who have at least 5 years of working experience.

Maverick Kabelo9 Jan 20232 min read

A smiling woman with closed eyes and a large natural afro, pink lilies in her hair, wears a white satin dress

Poetry

Dear Miss Sunshine

Dear miss sunshine, Shine Radiate as bright as you can be, For the world is yours to reach, To devour with your essence, And captivate our hearts with your presence,

Yarona Monthe3 Jan 20231 min read

BBS Bank letter dated 22 December 2022 announcing Ms Pedzani Tafa as Managing Director from 4 January 2023, with her portrait

Business & Finance

Ms. Pedzani Tafa appointed as Managing Director and Executive Director of BBS Bank

On 22nd December 2022, the Board of BBS Bank announced the appointment of Ms.

Maverick Kabelo31 Dec 20221 min read

Poetry

The six Ws of introversion

Why do I feel like an outcast, a misfit in this society?

Maverick Kabelo29 Dec 20221 min read

Themba, the Deaf Designer, smiles with his chin on his fist, in a red checked shirt and tie, a closed laptop in front of him

Graphic Design

The deaf designer: overcoming challenges and embracing new technologies in graphic design

Themba, also known as The Deaf Designer, is a graphic designer from Africa who is redefining what it means to be a designer.

Palesa Morailane29 Dec 20222 min read

Gofaone Modise poses in a black blazer and glasses with braids, hand at her chin, against a grey-blue backdrop

Creative

Gofaone Modise: Redefining social media marketing

Gofaone Modise is a young, charismatic woman passionate about helping businesses and young people reach their potential.

Ripfumelo Chavani27 Dec 20222 min read

Two black-and-cream spiked mophane worms hang from a thin branch, with dry bushveld and fence posts blurred behind

Poetry

The Mophane worm’s lament

I am but a humble worm, Trapped in this endless form, Foraging through the mophane leaves, My days filled with endless feed.

Maverick Kabelo25 Dec 20221 min read

Ministry of Finance press release, 22 December 2022: Pula basket weights stay at 45% rand and 55% SDR for 2023

Economics

Botswana government maintains Pula basket weights for 2023

The government of Botswana has announced that it will maintain the current weights of its Pula basket of currencies for 2023.

Maverick Kabelo24 Dec 20221 min read

Poetry

The untitled story

Her shiny black hair flickers in the dark storm, Her beautiful pink lips, with a touch of black from the burns of a cigarette.

Larona Mosoboloko24 Dec 20222 min read

A crumpled ball of yellow lined paper with handwriting on it sits on a dark slate surface

Poetry

I am not selfish

Once, you were my everything My heart and soul, my everything But as the days turned into months I found myself feeling trapped and smothered

Maverick Kabelo23 Dec 20221 min read

A glass jar lies on its side on a wooden surface, spilling copper and silver coins towards the camera

Business & Finance

How banks make money

Botswana is a landlocked country in southern Africa with a strong economy and a stable currency, the pula.

Maverick Kabelo19 Dec 20222 min read

A singer in a dark shirt performs at a microphone in black and white, a guitarist half visible behind her

Commentary

Why real talent often goes unrecognized

It is a common refrain that real talent often goes unrecognized while less talented individuals seem to garner more attention and recognition.

Maverick Kabelo18 Dec 20222 min read

A dark airport concourse with a curved ceiling and a lit blue sign reading Check-in B with an arrow

Poetry

Silent goodbye

A boy and lady, good friends they beHe told her all his innermost thoughts, so confidinglyShe comforted and advised, with a heart full of careBut one day, out of the blue, she was no longer there

Maverick Kabelo18 Dec 20221 min read

An empty boardroom with a long wooden table, leather chairs and a ceiling projector beside floor-to-ceiling windows

Business & Finance

How to register a company in Botswana

The Companies and Intellectual Property Authority (CIPA) is the government agency responsible for facilitating the registration of business names and companies in Botswana.

Maverick Kabelo17 Dec 20225 min read

A lone figure walks a dusty path across parched, dry land under a blazing sun and heavy storm clouds

Poetry

The unforgiving

The sun beats down, relentless and fierceOn the parched earth of her land

Maverick Kabelo17 Dec 20221 min read

A young man in a black top and grey trousers sprints mid-stride past a cream wall in a concrete courtyard

Poetry

Once an athlete

Once a man of great skill and speed,On the field and in the pool,He ruled the game with power and grace,A true athlete and a master of his craft.

Maverick Kabelo14 Dec 20221 min read

A young man in a blue T-shirt crouches with his head bowed and one hand pressed to his head, in dim, shadowed light

Poetry

Unfulfilled

Desire burns within me, A fire that never dies, I try to quench it, But it only multiplies.

Maverick Kabelo13 Dec 20221 min read

A smiling woman in a grey blazer rests her chin on her hands against a ribbed grey wall

Business & Finance

How to succeed in the events industry

“I forever find myself providing solutions for various situations.”

Ripfumelo Chavani13 Dec 20224 min read

Business & Finance

Modiri Mogende: Why we should all think Digital

Modiri Mogende is a highly skilled and accomplished digital marketing expert and entrepreneur based in Gaborone, Botswana.

Maverick Kabelo12 Dec 20222 min read

A person in a hoodie sits slumped on a sofa with a cardboard box over their head, black and white

Poetry

Despite

In the quiet of his solitude, He finds not peace nor solace.

Maverick Kabelo12 Dec 20221 min read

Black and white portrait of a young woman in braids resting her head on the shoulder of a taller person in a white T-shirt

Poetry

Build a home in me

With a soul woven in vicuna and cashmereI am soft and solaced for youRest your heart on the trove of my loveDulcifying and alleviatingLet us lay reclined here awhileDebarring the dinAnd darting our…

Kgosietsile Kooagile9 Dec 20221 min read

Pinky Jay with voluminous orange curls, blue eyes and a black star-studded harness outfit, posing against grey

Music

Pinky Jay ft Loverss Exclusive & Dibaba SA

The Nigerian multi-talented, next-rated song writer, and afro pop, singing sensation popularly known as Pinky Jay is back with this astonishing heavyweight song titled “Cheque” on this banger she has…

Palesa Morailane8 Dec 20221 min read

Poetry

She bled

Glancing the bay through the window,Her quiet morning began.Already hating the day, hating the life.She started to chase the ghost happiness that resided inside her.Drowning her sorrows in a deep…

Larona Mosoboloko4 Dec 20221 min read

Cover for Madd Bwoy Khaki's Day By Day: the artist sits on red-carpeted stairs beside an amplifier and electric guitar

Lyrics

Madd Bwoy Khaki – Day By Day (lyrics)

Day by day inna life afe live it upLife is a blessing mi cyan give it upGimme de way Moss high already map it outMe voice ah me gift let me sing it out.

AVO2 Dec 20221 min read

A young man in glasses and a pink shirt stands in a corridor holding a phone

Literary Arts

Austin Magaga: Starting Caves Academy on a high note

Affectionately dubbed “Professor Caves” by his students, Austin Magaga is the founder of Caves Academy, a fully registered and accredited training institution.

Raveena Ramnarain7 Nov 20221 min read

Cover for O Maaka by FME DJs and Han-C feat. DJ TH: black record sleeve and vinyl, Now available on all streaming platforms

Lyrics

FME DJs & Han C – O Maaka (feat. DJ TH) lyrics

So nna ke bari Ke o fe ke o fe Without getting anything in return Yeah yeah oooh So nna ke bari Ke o fe ke o fe Without getting anything in return Ooh I dont want your money I am not materialistic i…

Maverick Kabelo5 Nov 20221 min read

Make-up

Vunene Mabasa: making people feel and look good

”Quitting is the ultimate failure because you’ll never see the desired result”

Ripfumelo Chavani4 Nov 20225 min read

Poetry

How pink can you go

It’s pink October, A time to recognize the brave who have dealt with the unthinkable.

Ripfumelo Chavani24 Oct 20221 min read

Two organisers speak at a table with rainbow bunting behind them and a Rainbow Pride Fest poster, 22 October 2022

Culture & Power

Gaborone Pride celebrates the Rainbow Pride month with a festival

As the October month closes its end, the pride nation will go on to wrap the Africa pride month of the LGBTQ+ community with a beautiful festival themed “ Rainbow Pride Fest”

Kabelo Leon Mbaya21 Oct 20222 min read

Cover for Pride and Ego by AbTheActivist and Apexxxx: repeated white serif title over purple and blue vertical stripes

Lyrics

AbTheActivist – Pride and Ego (Feat. APEXXXX) lyrics

Sometimes I just need your loveI’m so in love with youMaybe you’re the chosen oneThe only one I’d choseSay you love how I control itemotions are all for youBaby girl we bossing my focus is all on you

Maverick Kabelo14 Oct 20221 min read

Marcia Ramodike smiling in an orange off-the-shoulder dress with long braids and pearl earrings, against a dark wall

Literary Arts

Marcia Ramodike; succeeding in the business industry

“I always told myself that one day I will make it.”

Ripfumelo Chavani1 Oct 20224 min read

Palesa Motsewetsho in a sparkling red gown and jewelled crown, posing beside a mirror against a blue backdrop

Pageantry

Palesa Motsewetsho: daring to dream

“When I put my mind to something, I can never be swayed.”

Ripfumelo Chavani11 Sep 20226 min read

Cover art for Ginger: a man in a blue checked blazer tilts his head back against a cloudy blue sky

Lyrics

Jordan MoOzy & Veezo View – Ginger (lyrics)

Time to play with big boysBig toysFinna get me a rolls RoyceWith two gold fish uhI mean the hill lifeThe bright lightsKicking with the whole squadOn school nightBlow me a breath a passionWhy live a…

Maverick Kabelo6 Sep 20222 min read

Athletics

Letsile Tebogo Q&A: childhood, school and salary

Africa’s Very Own Magazine went out to talk to Botswana athlete and record breaker, Letsile Tebogo.

Maverick Kabelo4 Sep 20221 min read

Lyrics

For3ign – Epitome (lyrics)

Yeah yeah yeah ahLF3 babySh* crazy, sh* crazyCover your eyes you don’t wanna see the bloody murder am about to manifestLost in my thoughts little Alice worldReminiscing ’bout the way am get my money…

AVO1 Sep 20221 min read

Constance Kuswani in a T-shirt printed with her table tennis photo and the words 2022 Africa Senior Games, For Algeria

Sports

Table Tennis Africa Senior Championships qualifier seeks to raise funds for her trip

Constance Kuswani, a table tennis player has qualified for the Africa Senior Championships to be held in Algeria.

Kabelo Leon Mbaya27 Aug 20221 min read

A smiling man in sunglasses and a blue jumper sits under a grey umbrella outdoors

Literary Arts

Dr. Bryan Keitsemang appointed Lecturer of Creative Writing at Caves Academy

We couldn’t be more pleased to partner with the celebrated writer Dr Bryan Keitsemang to launch our Creative Writing Program.

Raveena Ramnarain25 Aug 20221 min read

A woman does a handstand against a graffiti-covered wall on a beach, silhouetted against a clear blue sky

Choreography

Movement is drug

Everyone is moved and motivated by something to get out of bed and go on with their day.

Unaswi Bashingi Moalusi24 Aug 20223 min read

A smiling man in a grey blazer lounges in an armchair, wearing a Forbes Under 30 Summit Africa badge

Business & Finance

Forbes hand picked delegate

As children, we grow up having dreams of what we want to be when we are older.

Unaswi Bashingi Moalusi17 Aug 20223 min read

Business & Finance

“I AM AFRICAN WILDFIRE!” – Audrey Simbiso Chidawanyika

Women in Africa are applauded for dominating as entrepreneurs as they impact and add a massive contribution to the economic growth of Africa with their booming businesses and companies.

AVO29 Jul 20226 min read

Dr Bryan Keitsemang smiling in a black T-shirt, jeans and glasses against a grey studio backdrop

Literary Arts

Bryan Keitsemang: The untamed storyteller

Dr.

Raveena Ramnarain20 Jul 20223 min read

Lyrics

Sparkles – Untitled 2 (lyrics)

I heard ’em say that you was talking ’bout me soI decided I should come sit by youInfatuation or addictionI wanna know when will this end(Ooh-oh)I know the rulesPlayers choose their pawns is that…

AVO16 Jul 20221 min read

Masked and unmasked audience members sit on white chairs at an outdoor event, one man standing by a laptop

Poetry

Ambition in place

A brain behind inventiveness, Young and intelligent, Destined for greatness… Anxiousness and sensitiveness his weakness, And creativity his greatest weapon…

Ripfumelo Chavani14 Jul 20222 min read

A worker in a hard hat and blue overalls crouches beside a drill press in a workshop, holding a metal bar

Poetry

Makoro to survive

He wakes up early to get the bag, To run towards the hissing bus as it reaches the bus stop,To run after it even when it leaves him behind, Until it reaches the next bus stop for other workers.

AVO3 Jul 20221 min read

Cover for Ms Abbey's Africa: the singer in traditional-style beaded accessories dancing in tall grass beside a lake at dusk

Lyrics

Ms Abbey – Africa (lyrics)

Tu rumere tu vonse mwa Africa Ee wa mpona manje Ke tja ka boikokobetjo Phalana e anyile, botlhale mo mmayona Bakhurutshe, matola dichaba, Ba phataletshe ,mathare a dikala

AVO1 Jul 20221 min read

Book Review

Tlhakantshuke is out now!

Copies of Dr.

AVO30 Jun 20221 min read

Illustrated cover for OneTake's 95 Pac: a cartoon man in sunglasses and a suit holding a Confidential envelope

Lyrics

OneTake – 95 Pac (lyrics)

Lets show em how we do it this sideThe 267 is on fireMa city shows me love like Bonnie juss met ClydeFrom the tenvilleNow the music is worldwideIf your girl is caught slippin u know that im gon…

AVO29 Jun 20222 min read

Lyrics

Mek – No noise (feat. Nameless the bully) lyrics

No no no no we don’t need no noise (ha re nyake modumo)

AVO28 Jun 20222 min read

Lyrics

Mek – For this (feat. Danxelle) lyrics

I need the cash babe don’t need nothing else

Maverick Kabelo26 Jun 20222 min read

A man with patches of vitiligo on his face and arms, in a bucket hat and mustard T-shirt, holding a phone

Poetry

Wear your skin proud

Unusual brown, white and spotty “deformities,” Sketched on your body by the hands of nature, Creping quietly into your coat, and consuming the usual skin color… A discomfort that came with constant…

Ripfumelo Chavani25 Jun 20221 min read

Cover art for Whiskie's Rear view: a close portrait of a young man with a trimmed beard, in a grey shirt

Lyrics

Whiskie – Rear view(outro) feat. Carisma lyrics

I’ve been on the wayFell to my knees but I stood right backBlessings on they wayI keep looking back but I’m never side-trackedIt’s falling into placeEver since the REAR-VIEW showed me what we passed…

AVO23 Jun 20222 min read

Cover art for Whiskie's Persistence: a close portrait of a young man with a trimmed beard, in a grey shirt

Lyrics

Whiskie – Persistence (feat. Kxss) lyrics

It only gets harder but we keep it movingWithout any intention that we’d ever lose it ×4

AVO21 Jun 20222 min read

A father lying on a bed lifts a laughing toddler in a mustard top into the air, in bright, soft light

Poetry

Dear pops, old man

He is a pillar of strength; The one we look to when everything is going sideways; We know that he has an armour up there… I would wake up from nightmares, screaming.

Yarona Monthe19 Jun 20221 min read

Cover art for Whiskie's Reach: a close portrait of a young man with a trimmed beard, looking at the camera, in a grey shirt

Lyrics

Whiskie – Reach (lyrics)

I’m only in it for the passion man & that’s for realThe drive that’s you’ll never see me catch a chillI’m writing songs and lacing records that’s the life I LIVE..This music thing is like my soul yea…

AVO18 Jun 20222 min read

A person in glasses and a pinstriped blazer leans on a wooden stool, glancing sideways, black and white portrait

Poetry

Who am I?

I am the extension of rudeness, With a pinch of sweetness.

Yarona Monthe17 Jun 20221 min read

A woman in dungarees and a striped T-shirt laughs with arms raised in front of a rainbow flag

Poetry

Wrong ain’t our label

They say we all have rights…A rhythm mumbled daily.As if everyone earns the same respect…Yet, seeing the difference makes me wonder.And seek to know exactly what are human rights?Who deserves these…

Ripfumelo Chavani16 Jun 20222 min read

Geoffrey Mosarwa Jr smiling in a grey T-shirt and gold chain, taking a selfie indoors

Poetry

Mosarwa’s poetic quest

Geoffrey Mosarwa Jr is a wordsmith who speaks his truth and wears his heart on his sleeve.

Maverick Kabelo15 Jun 20225 min read

Cover art for Phologolo's Thig Thug Thig by Tswana Breed: a woman looking down beside a man singing into a microphone

Lyrics

Phologolo – Thig thug thig (lyrics)

Mono ngwaga re bina rotlheMono ngwaga re bina rotlheMono ngwaga re bina rotlheMono ngwaga re bina rotlhe

Maverick Kabelo14 Jun 20222 min read

Literary Arts

The rise of Dr. Bryan Keitsemang

• Dr.

Raveena Ramnarain11 Jun 20222 min read

Lyrics

Teddy West – Gimme sum (lyrics)

Shawty pull up on me and give me love tonight oh tonightYou know I need me some lovePull up and give me some lovePull up and give me some love(Gimme some love, gimme ah)

Maverick Kabelo6 Jun 20221 min read

An upside-down photograph of a person in a cream T-shirt covering their face with both hands against purple grass

Lyrics

Pablo%8 – Simping (feat. Sebaga) lyrics

First time that I saw youI felt chills run down my neck Cause I never met somebodyWho looks as beautiful as youSecond time I saw youI felt my heart skip a beat cause Your beauty got my heartRacing…

Maverick Kabelo4 Jun 20222 min read

A painted mural of a screaming figure clutching its head with both hands, teal and brown on a pale wall

Poetry

Monstrous pain

I never saw it coming!

Ripfumelo Chavani30 May 20222 min read

Music

The six-string soul-strumming musician

Sol Stringer was born Solly Mosetle on November 1st 1983 in Krugersdorp, South Africa.

Palesa Morailane29 May 20226 min read

Cover art for Danxellé's Distance: a young man in a black wavjunkies beanie and sweatshirt, lit by a golden sunset

Lyrics

Danxellé – Distance (lyrics)

All this distanceYea this distanceBeen messing me upI need to see you moreI need to touch you moreI need to see you so

Maverick Kabelo27 May 20221 min read

Performing Arts

DintleOnTheTrack, the elevation

Dintle Balole, popularly known as “Dintleonthetrack” in the music spaces is a 20-year-old Producer, Artist, Songwriter and Live Performer from Oodi but based in Gaborone, Botswana.

Kaone Hunyepa13 May 20222 min read

A woman in a patterned headwrap cradles a baby wrapped in a soft blanket, black and white portrait against a dark background

Poetry

Mother’s Day

Hi mama, I know it’s late.

Palesa Morailane8 May 20221 min read

A woman in a black dress and pearl-trimmed cardigan sits with a coffee cup at an event, looking off to the side

Poetry

A true natured passion

Her profession… An excellent event prof.

Ripfumelo Chavani7 May 20222 min read

Poetry

Surviving 2021

We’ve gotten to a point where we learnt survival of the fittest even when we didn’t want to.We’ve fought ourselves; our demons cursed our reflections and still couldn’t find stability.In-fact…

Burnt Out Phoenix29 Apr 20221 min read

Close-up portrait of a woman in a cream head wrap and large hoop earrings, looking steadily at the camera

Poetry

You think you know her

I overheard your chats with your buddies.Whispering one-sided truths about her character.You uttered with confidence…For you were certain of every element that made her.

Ripfumelo Chavani26 Apr 20221 min read

Poetry

I said I was busy

I said I was busy…Yet my truth was considered a lie.For I was not spotted physically operative

Ripfumelo Chavani22 Apr 20221 min read

A young man in gold-rimmed glasses, a white roll neck and a dark green belted safari jacket stands among trees

Fashion

Turning passion into a business

“I do fashion almost every day of my life and I value it more than any of my professions.”

Ripfumelo Chavani18 Apr 20224 min read

Performing Arts

The Jonny Pula article

Top African Comedian for South African 2020 Awards Nominee born Kago Rannoba is a man of so many talents.

Kaone Hunyepa16 Apr 20226 min read

A crowd of women in blue Setswana shawls and headscarves gather outdoors under a tree, wearing face masks

Performing Arts

Batlokwa heartily receive queen Makhadzi

Makhadzi this morning landed in Botswana to a heartwarming and full embrace by the Batlokwa ahead of her much anticipated One Woman Show.

Kabelo Leon Mbaya23 Mar 20221 min read

Five people in masks and One Man Show t-shirts sit behind a black-draped table at a press event

Music

Kabza De Small to rock up the city this Saturday

Scheduled for a one man show like no other and a first of its kind in Botswana on Saturday 19th March 2022, South African piano artist Kabza De Small will be gracing the amapiano lovers and those…

Kabelo Leon Mbaya16 Mar 20221 min read

Music

Shaba Stele – Love Is Evol (rating)

Botswana singer, producer, and composer, Shaba Stele, recently released his highly anticipated project, Love is Evol.

Maverick Kabelo24 Feb 20221 min read

Cover art with two young men in dark, stylised teal and gold light with beams of light and an explicit content label

Music

MAX Characters presents: Chapter #1 – Q&A and streaming

There are a bunch of hip hop subgenres, and I think the most dominant form that I dabble in is boom bap rap.

Maverick Kabelo21 Feb 20223 min read

Artwork for AbTheActivist's Rampage (feat. I'me): a young man in a black t-shirt, beside the text The wave is taking over

Lyrics

AbTheActivist – Rampage (feat. I’me) lyrics

Hella flows, hella dope nkare dealer enngwe yana

Maverick Kabelo14 Feb 20222 min read

Black and white portrait of a woman with an afro looking at the camera through long palm leaves

Short Story

Ahana

Ahana’s brother banged on the door with a fist before turning to face Jenni, Ahana’s roommate, who was on the verge on wetting her pants.

Baone Peace Moalosi8 Feb 202214 min read

Artwork for Pablo%8's Falling (feat. Danxellé): a singer in a yellow hoodie performs on stage with a microphone

Lyrics

Pablo%8 – Falling (feat. Danxelle) Lyrics

Don’t be lying pretending can’t you see am hurting

Maverick Kabelo5 Feb 20221 min read

Artwork for Menzile Chester's Washin' The Bag: a woman takes a mirror selfie beside the text All over the top

Lyrics

Menzile Chester – Washin’ The Bag (lyrics)

(Chorus) Boy!

Maverick Kabelo4 Feb 20222 min read

A woman in a beaded collar and a layered blue, red and white fringed outfit stands on a brick path, barefoot with anklets

Fashion

Keeping up with the fashion world

“Fashion means being able to express myself in a form of clothes.”

Ripfumelo Chavani23 Jan 20223 min read

Poetry

Pain

I live deep within the deep blood of lonely children and sad souls.

Larona Mosoboloko22 Jan 20221 min read

Foodie

Cook it with Thabo Mamelodi

Thabo Mamelodi, 34, is a self proclaimed professional foodie, who is working towards becoming a certified chef.

Maverick Kabelo18 Jan 20224 min read

Artwork for 36Gvng's No Case: a young man with short locs in a cap beside the text I'm on a mission

Lyrics

Stream 36Gvng – No case + lyrics

(CrayOn)I put the dub in a spliffMe and my gang hella lit36 watch the assistI’m on a mission and you know I’m never gon’ missMotako been taking a pissOn all of the rappers that wanna get richIf you…

Maverick Kabelo16 Jan 20222 min read

A young woman with long locs and round glasses reads a book called Thoughts, leaning against a white wall

Book Review

Using words to encompass history

Lebogang Botlhoko is a published author aged nineteen.

Burnt Out Phoenix15 Jan 20224 min read

Pageantry

Bhargava represents Botswana’s diversity

Sakshi Bhargava, 19, Motswana by birth and Indian by race, is a Francistown-raised beauty queen and philanthropist.

Maverick Kabelo14 Jan 20226 min read

A person in a bucket hat and dark face mask crosses their arms over their shoulders against a deep teal backdrop

Photography

Exhibitions are the way to go

Africa’s Very Own Magazine prides itself in ensuring that all creative’s are given the time to shine.

Keleabetswe Tapologo13 Jan 20224 min read

Short Story

We were never here

By Wednesdays at most, she’d feel tired of being human.

Baone Peace Moalosi10 Jan 202212 min read

Pageantry

Young, Black and multi-gifted

“If you don’t love what you do, then what you do won’t love you back.”

Ripfumelo Chavani10 Jan 20223 min read

A young woman in a blush dress with space buns reclines on the floor beside a Miss Teen International Botswana sash and crown

Pageantry

Gimhani Perera: Tswana rising queen

Miss Teen International Botswana 2021, pageantry for teenagers, crowned a new queen on the 18th of September.

Maverick Kabelo10 Jan 20222 min read

Fashion

Part time fashion designer – Full time law student

Kutlo Julia Kutjwe is a young Motswana fashion designer.

Poppie Moseki9 Jan 20223 min read

Photography

Infinitely influencing photography

Lehlohonolo Tekane (Infinite) the director of Infinite Influence is a 26-year-old emerging photographer with experience in the field of medical research.

Palesa Morailane9 Jan 20222 min read

Artwork for Antido.te's Why Me cover: a young man in a pearl necklace beside the text I'm a 5G moving too fast

Lyrics

Stream Antido.te – Why Me (cover) plus lyrics

Woke up feeling GodlyI know nas they don’t really f- like mef- a na if a na named Oziain’t no TMG Gangsta I’m a real OGhard bottoms and white socks like I’m YGthese nas my 4th generation, I’m a…

Maverick Kabelo9 Jan 20221 min read

Lyrics

Stream ybpicasso – Maha’la(7) + lyrics

Had to do it on TV beforeI did again but I swear we not actors

Maverick Kabelo8 Jan 20222 min read

Poetry

The rhythm of my grief

Listen to the tone of my grief,A discomfort that started when existence turns into a misery…When days and night were more of the same..When my ex started to cheat on me with a Paramour.

Ripfumelo Chavani7 Jan 20221 min read

A young man in a grey t-shirt and red-framed glasses looks down at a gold watch, with a blue sky behind him

Drawing

Artists pay tribute to Dramaboi

Thuto Ricardo Ramaphaleng, famously known as Dramaboi, passes away at the age of 28.

Maverick Kabelo7 Jan 20221 min read

Music

Botswana’s hidden gem

Botswana is well known for its diamonds, beef and tourism but one of Botswana’s greatest resources is its rich music culture.

Tshegofatso Elijah6 Jan 20221 min read

Music

Stream De General – Wa lenyalo (feat. M o d) + lyrics

De General and MMP Family’s MOD just released the music video for their collaboration single, Wa Lenyalo.

Maverick Kabelo5 Jan 20221 min read

A woman in a yellow ruffled jacket lowers her sunglasses and holds an ice cream cone against a weathered teal wall

Poetry

Phenomenal self

I don’t have a sexy physique to die for,I’m not full- figured.But I’m cute in my ways,When I try to portray my glamour they don’t see it.When I try to notify them, they speculate I’m telling the…

Ripfumelo Chavani5 Jan 20221 min read

Music

Stream Dintleonthetrack – Pound Cake freestyle + lyrics

Dintleonthetrack, a singer, producer, and composer, kicks off the year with a freestyle cover of Drake and Jay Z’s Pound Cake, taken from Drake‘s third studio album, Nothing Was the Same, from 2013.

Maverick Kabelo4 Jan 20221 min read

Music

Stream Sativa – Easy (feat. Priscilla K) plus lyrics

New and upcoming Botswana RnB singer, Sativa, alongside with Priscilla K, released her debut single, Easy, earlier this week.

Maverick Kabelo4 Jan 20221 min read

Artwork for Calzado Anim's Birthday (feat. Mmeli & Leitse): a man with piercings sits in a car, caption It's your birthday

Music

Stream Calzado Anim – Birthday (feat. Mmeli & Leitse) + lyrics

Calzado Anim celebrated his birthday on the 2nd of January with the release of his highly fan-requested song titled “Birthday“.

Maverick Kabelo3 Jan 20222 min read

Culture & Power

The queen of entertainment promotions

Hailing from the small village of Thamaga about 40 km outside the capital, Phodiso Tshegisi, often referred to by her alias ‘Pixel’ is no shrinking violet.

Kabelo Leon Mbaya3 Jan 20224 min read

Lyrics

Stream Abtheactivist – 444 (official music video) + lyrics

AbTheActivist, a rapper, producer, and composer, celebrated the end of the year by releasing a music video for his song 444, which is featured on Ab’s NEW WAV EP, a collaboration with international…

Maverick Kabelo2 Jan 20222 min read

Poetry

A heart of gold

My heart,What a tenderness filled within you,Your every beat is fulfilling and admiring…Your liking knows no prejudice..All you observe seems elegant and uniqueYou have passed this compassion to my…

Ripfumelo Chavani2 Jan 20221 min read

Teks Tym (feat. Whiskie) artwork: a man in sunglasses and a durag beside the text I'll never give up till I make it

Lyrics

Stream Danxellé – Teks Tym (feat. Whiskie The Rapper) plus lyrics

Danxellé, a Selebi – Phikwe rapper and producer, kicked out the year with a tune called ‘Teks Tym,’ which he co-wrote with Whiskie The Rapper, another Phikwe native.

Maverick Kabelo1 Jan 20221 min read

Hands pull a blank card from a brown envelope on a wooden desk beside an ink pot and dip pen

Poetry

Dear Life

I gave myself sufficient period to examine and understand you well.After all the times I was attempting to give up on you and get relieved from you because I couldn’t handle your nature.But I have…

Ripfumelo Chavani9 Oct 20211 min read

Black and white close-up of two people holding hands across a wooden table

Poetry

What is love?

I wish I can tell, but you are asking the wrong person,I have been in love, yet I can’t clarify it…I know it sounds strange, but this is my truth…

Ripfumelo Chavani6 Oct 20211 min read

The number five made from a bicycle chain on a bright orange background

Poetry

Five on the dot.

I’m longing to live my dreams!I had the best moments of my existence,Encircled by people who only sees potential in me.They applauded, as I walk boldly on a red carpet,Bossing to sit on a throne,My…

Ripfumelo Chavani25 Sep 20211 min read

Black and white portrait of a young man in a cap and patterned short-sleeved shirt standing in a dim workshop

Music

Q&A with Kaey Maxx

I’m a song writer, recording artist and a music producer.

Katlo Moepedi23 Sep 20213 min read

A lone figure in pink picks through a huge mountain of rubbish at a landfill

Poetry

Nobody is a waste

I notice you, All the duration… When you take things very distant, And label human beings nobodies.

Ripfumelo Chavani13 Sep 20212 min read

Black and white image of a woman with tape over her mouth, a finger raised to her lips in a hush

Poetry

Hunted souls

We thought only animals can be hunted down and killed…But things have changed drastically,Human flesh is on demand,don’t get me erroneous….Not all human flash, but recently women considered on the…

Ripfumelo Chavani11 Sep 20211 min read

Black and white close-up of a young woman with tears running down her cheeks, flowers in her hair

Poetry

Crying a river full

I’m crying a river full of my pilling tears,I’m still enduring the pain,Yet I don’t know I’ll endure it until when…I think, maybe it will passYet I also believe it can even be for a lifetime.

Ripfumelo Chavani8 Sep 20212 min read

A man in a cream shirt touches the arm of a woman in a grey turtleneck, who stands hands on hips looking away

Poetry

Meaningless sorry’s

Nicely, you said sorry,On your knees as if you wanted to submit,With a sham sadness on your skin.Like the usual,You performed similar actions…Hoping I’ll fall for it, like all these times.

Ripfumelo Chavani5 Sep 20211 min read

A woman in a pale blue hospital-style gown sits curled up on the floor, head resting on her arm, looking sad

Poetry

Foreseeing your return

I’m here extremely concernedOverthinking roughly of what you are enduring,I wonder if I will ever have an opportunity to feel your deepest suffering,Because that is my longing to share your pains…But…

Ripfumelo Chavani26 Aug 20212 min read

Music review

Jinger Stone’s “Colder Than Water” is pretty warm

“Colder Than Water” by Team Distant is a catchy and tuneful song.

Tjabongwa Maswikiti25 Aug 20211 min read

A DJ in a grey t-shirt and headphones mixing at a Pioneer deck in a room with red walls

Music

DJ Giftos going after his dreams

Gift Mabasa is a 32 years old young man, who was born and bred in malamulele, Limpopo.

Ripfumelo Chavani25 Aug 20214 min read

A young man with curly hair cheering, both fists raised, against a bright yellow background

Poetry

The man who won the lottery

Have you ever lived your life waking up from a shack?Feeding on dry breadcrumbs every morning and even in the evening when you come back?Have you ever lived a life that gives you a reason to give up…

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane21 Aug 20212 min read

A woman and a man with eyes closed, foreheads touching, lit by a sliver of warm light against darkness

Poetry

Loving you ended me

I bought you flowers, and you sent them backGot you a necklace and said it doesn’t look good on your neckI bought you an impeccable dinner dress and you told me you hate the color blackTell me, how…

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane19 Aug 20212 min read

Three side-by-side portraits of young men: one taking a mirror selfie, one in a red-lit jacket, one in sunglasses

Music review

Calzado Anim – Late night featuring fourfortyfour

It’s not often that you stumble across an unfamiliar artist with a sound so fresh and distinctive.

AVO19 Aug 20211 min read

Bare footprints leading away across wet golden sand in warm evening light

Poetry

The lesson of life

Seasons come and passPeople come and goSo, from that, we must learn and grow

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane18 Aug 20211 min read

A hand holding a large bunch of white daisies against a pale wall

Poetry

I will show you

She said, “Give me a flower,And I’ll show you how to take care of it, so it doesn’t lose its color

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane17 Aug 20211 min read

A dark bedroom with rumpled bedding in front of a window whose blinds frame an orange sunset sky

Poetry

The dream she had last night

She is being chased by her own shadowLocked behind the bars of sinLocked behind the dark world she cannot seeA world without stars and the moon

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane16 Aug 20211 min read

A black and white scene: a blonde woman in long gloves aims a small revolver at a man with a cigar at a drinks table

Poetry

Unforeseen betrayal

I unfasten my life foyer,For you to access my frontier,Assuming our relationship was more than just friends…And I snatched it to the next phase.

Ripfumelo Chavani16 Aug 20211 min read

A man with a topknot in a black shirt rests his chin on his arm and looks away, lost in thought, by a white curtain

Poetry

What I earned from these scars

Throughout my childhood my mistakes have been labeled outFor every scar I got, represented every serious or even petty mistake I had madeRepresented every cup or plate I accidentally broke,And no…

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane15 Aug 20211 min read

A wrist wearing a black watch with a see-through dial, held over a bed of red leaves

Poetry

One more last dose

Left me in some indefinable lachrymose I should’ve known it would be much more hurting to stay in too close But before I let go, please allow me this one more last dose

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane14 Aug 20211 min read

A pair of open hands covered in blood against a black background

Poetry

She lives in me

Her voice is full of pain and rageIt’s like she’s been locked in a hard shield cageAnd she doesn’t wanna leave without imbedding a markI can feel her fists, aggressively hitting against my heart

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane13 Aug 20211 min read

A paper printed with the word time burning, its flame bright against a black background

Poetry

A matter of time

Time fliesIt runs like a river flowWe meet when the time was still tickingI put you under my skin just like a tickYou sucked my blood,And become full and fat from my flash

Ripfumelo Chavani12 Aug 20212 min read

A person sitting cross-legged in tall dry grass in a denim jacket, face wrapped in white cloth, one hand raised to the head

Poetry

Deception

Broken into pieces of sharp bladesHidden behind the scary dark shadesBuried in sadness with no lucid meaningA quintessence of grief, trying to seek healing

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane12 Aug 20211 min read

Poetry

Blue; my different shade of blue

My blue is dark, yours is light Your blue is day, mine is night Your blue is hope, mine is plight Your blue brings laughter, mine bring tears Your blue brings freedom, mine brings fears

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane11 Aug 20211 min read

A woman in sunglasses and a black crop top poses against a wall, her large shadow behind her wearing a crown

Poetry

The shadow

It’s black behind my backIt listens to me every time I talk aloneBut it’s neither made of flesh nor boneIt is my only companion

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane10 Aug 20211 min read

Poetry

She lives in a world

She lives in a world around peersA world where everyone is afraid to conquer their fearsShe lives in a world full of tearsA world where she cannot find herself

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane9 Aug 20211 min read

Poetry

This is a jeremiad of my hopelessly drowning emotions

From waking up at 6am for a morning jogDown the busy street downtown with my dogThe everyday hangouts and dinners after workFrom scribbling random messages into my diary every morning when I wake…

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane8 Aug 20211 min read

Poetry

The girl who killed my father

She criedBut one day her tears turned into fireFire that dropped to the ground and burnt the earth in ireShe cried and the more she criedWas the more the fire burnt along her skin down to her chin

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane7 Aug 20211 min read

Poetry

Depressed child

Sadness is my homieComes out to play only when I am soberHe wouldMake me feel worthless,Play mind games with meOnly to make me feel selfless;

Yarona Monthe6 Aug 20212 min read

Poetry

Our blackness to them appears like an inevitable crime

There was love but you chose to hateYou chose to betray God and discriminateYou chose to cast blood upon the black riversYou chose to imbed it in your mind, to stick it to your subconscious forever…

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane5 Aug 20211 min read

Poetry

Eyes are windows to the soul

They say eyes are windows to the soul But mine are as dark as coal Dark that no matter how careful you try to see through them, you won’t see the pain Like a tortoise my eyes are a protective shell…

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane4 Aug 20211 min read

Poetry

A mistaken hardship

They spread the mythsAnd announced my madnessFor they assumed they knew it all..They went further…And verify my passing time.

Ripfumelo Chavani3 Aug 20211 min read

Poetry

Broken pieces

When other kids used to brag about their happy familiesI stayed still in my shell like a tortoiseI always stayed quiet, that they would never hear my voiceI ran to the back of the house to wipe off…

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane3 Aug 20211 min read

Poetry

The note she left on the worktop

It was one summer night and the sky was raining its cold mistMy body was feeling light and lifeless like the watch that was wrapped around my wristThe house too was scared,signaling there’s nobody…

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane2 Aug 20213 min read

Poetry

I’m fine

I told my mom I’m fineBut she watches me every time she talks to me about you and I swallow back my tears

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane1 Aug 20211 min read

Poetry

I know, I remember (p.s. I still do)

I know how I felt the first time I saw youI know my heart skipped beats more than once or twice in a semi- secondI know I stammered the whole day because words kept running away from meEvery time you…

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane30 Jul 20213 min read

Poetry

She broke hearts but earned cuts

She was young and naïveGrowing without love drove her to look for it in the wildest of placesShe got lost between finding love that is worth the price and just lust for the beautiful facesAnd she met…

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane30 Jul 20211 min read

Album cover for I Am Afrika by Sereetsi and The Natives: a child looking upward against a brown rock-art background

Music review

Sereetsi and the Natives mind-blowing collaboration

Multi award winning contemporary artist, Sereetsi and The Natives, brought a different melody for his fans on his highly anointed third album that features well recognised singers and song writers…

Keleabetswe Tapologo23 Jul 20214 min read

A young woman with long side-swept braids and a white satin top, standing before a red-brick building

Drawing

Lekgoa’s abstract time-lapse

Katso Boseatleng Lekgoa is a young artist with a passion for the art of drawing.

Odirile Odirile21 Jul 20213 min read

Poetry

Love

I thought, hesitated and went for itI drowned deep for itMade waves in settled landsLove..yes its loveThey fell in for me

AVO9 Jul 20211 min read

YB Picasso in sunglasses and headphones making a hand gesture beside a studio microphone, in black and white

Music

YBPicasso on the highs and lows of rap

Brian Kgosietsile Makoko, born on 7 January, 1998, in Francistown, is a local rapper well known by his stage name,” YB Picasso” which started in high school mostly from his friends and family.

Caron Moloi8 Jul 20215 min read

Poetry

Mourning

Sadness, bereavement or lamentation;The most terrible state of humanity survival,War between soul, mind and heart;Thorn in my skin, tumor in my brain;What should be done?

Ripfumelo Chavani6 Jul 20212 min read

Graphic Design

Branding businesses to success

Visual arts continue to evolve and improve with time.

Keleabetswe Tapologo4 Jul 20214 min read

Three women in white wedding-style gowns with shweshwe fabric details, framed against folds of patterned cloth

Fashion

Weddings persevere – A silver lining

“TŠHABA E E SENANG NGAWO KE MONKA E LATLHEGILENG”

Poppie Moseki4 Jul 20212 min read

Maatla Kebs smiling widely with an orange balloon in one hand, wearing an Adidas T-shirt

Photography

Botswana’s father of photography

Maatla Hendry Kebautlwetse, a.k.a Maatla Kebs, is a vibrant photographer who was born in Orapa and raised in Lobatse.

Caron Moloi2 Jul 20211 min read

Madd Bwoy Khaki, with long dreadlocks and headphones, stands at a studio microphone against white

Music

Q&A with Madd Bwoy Khaki

A: Well, I talk a lot.

Maverick Kabelo2 Jul 20212 min read

A smiling woman with long auburn braids in a black lace top and playsuit, holding a handbag in a doorway

Literary Arts

MAMAs nominated: Best Author

BESIDES BEING GIFTED, LONELINESS INSPIRED ME TO WRITE

Ripfumelo Chavani1 Jul 20212 min read

Ozzil Gopolang, arms crossed, in a white coat and maroon tie against a dark backdrop, on a cover reading Author

Book Review

Against the odds

Another week another great local Author and this week we are getting wisdom from Ozzil Gopolang with his book titled ‘Against the odds‘.

Same Muzila25 Jun 20214 min read

Poetry

Apple of my eye

Can I tell you a secret?Please promise you’ll keep it.I’ve kept it deep within,But now I should preach it.There’s a girl whom I love,An angel from above.Although things may get tough,I’ll never get…

Ripfumelo Chavani23 Jun 20213 min read

A man in round sunglasses and a woman in a face shield, both in black jackets with kente-style panels, before a mural

Music

Han C on top of the chart

Han C, a Botswana singer-songwriter, has been sitting on international charts and hundreds of thousands of streams.

Maverick Kabelo19 Jun 20211 min read

Cover art for To The Top: a rocket climbing through a blue sky above a parental advisory label, on a white background

Music review

AbTheActivist drops “To The Top” with OneTake

AVO managed to get a moment with the young and talented AbTheActivist.

Same Muzila11 Jun 20211 min read

Ronald Moabi, the cinematographer, smiling in a black T-shirt against a dark backdrop, on a cover reading Cinimatographer

Cinematography

The brains of cinematography

In life one never stops learning, we got an opportunity to talk to one of the best cinematographers, who goes by the name Ronald Moabi aka ClouttGrapher X, an 18 year old young man who comes from…

Keleabetswe Tapologo9 Jun 20213 min read

A man in a blue T-shirt and black jeans holds a sheet of paper in the sun beside a yellow wall and a small metal sculpture

Drawing

Jakamotako art’s life

Kefentse Keboitse, a 29 year old Serowe native, is a full time artistic coloured pencil drawer.

Odirile Odirile6 Jun 20213 min read

Music

Lone RnB king single-handedly aims for the stars

He has a voice that always melts the ladies’ hearts and sounds so angelic, probably why he has dubbed himself Sal AngeL.

Kabelo Leon Mbaya28 May 20213 min read

Short Story

A shy, young woman bumps into her soulmate

Not all days of the week were good and exciting as one would think or perceive.

AVO27 May 20214 min read

Music review

Ngwana’msetsana

This week we are shining the spotlight on the all new Ubuntu Band.

Same Muzila24 May 20211 min read

Pah Chihera in a floral-print dress with a gold sash dancing barefoot on a lawn by a wooden fence, on a cover reading Singer

Music

Pah Chihera talks about her childhood, career, and late uncle

Pamhidzai ‘Pah Chihera‘ Mbirimi is an actress and singer who specializes in Afro-Jazz.

Maverick Kabelo22 May 20212 min read

Kagiso Keorapete in a black-and-white portrait, wearing a witch's hat and a finger to his lips

Photography

Striving in photography despite phone technical advancement

Neutral Photography is a Botswana-based freelance action sports and events photography company owned by Kagiso Keorapetse.

Keleabetswe Tapologo22 May 20214 min read

Short Story

Her best friend’s death

My bestfriend was the truest thing to ever happen to me and for me.

AVO20 May 20217 min read

Now Out artwork for Kaosane by Da QuTness featuring Tefo Bright, a CD case with a man in a bucket hat on a paisley cover

Music review

Da qutness – Kaosane

With his newly released song ‘Kaosane’; We asked more about it and Da QuTness had so much to say.

Same Muzila19 May 20211 min read

Baone Peace Moalosi in sunglasses and a lilac top, face tilted to the sun, on a cover reading Author

Literary Arts

Pain isn’t the worst thing

Baone Peace Moalosi is a 20 year old, Mochudi born writer/poet and author of Pain Isn’t The Worst Thing.

Same Muzila18 May 20212 min read

Drawing

Using trends as a means of illuminating life through eye catching portraits.

Visual art covers a broad spectrum, and as unique as they come they all have a way of fascinating the human eye.

Keleabetswe Tapologo18 May 20214 min read

A woman in a navy pinstripe outfit sits cross-legged holding the book Tears on My Mother's Shoe

Literary Arts

Tears on my mother’s shoes

Ms Lame Pusetso is a writer, poet, master of ceremony, spoken word artist, motivational speaker, poetry adjudicator and owner of a publishing company.

Zanele15 May 20213 min read

Winnie Karabo Moalosi in a grey ribbed dress, yellow blazer and pink handbag, standing in a bright lobby

Modelling

Artist of multiple talents

Among the many artistically brilliant young people in the land of Botswana is the very versatile Winnie Karabo Moalosi.

Odirile Odirile15 May 20213 min read

The three members of FME DJs posing close together and pointing at the camera, on a cover reading Music Group

Music review

FME djs – Mo Spacing

Today we shine the spotlight on Botswana’s amapiano trio FME DJs.

Same Muzila29 Apr 20211 min read

HT Tautona in a red and navy striped T-shirt against a dark backdrop, on a cover reading Recording Artist

Music

HT Tautona talks career, marriage and industry

Kelebogile Mabua, who is commonly known by the name “HT Tautona”, gave us insight of his inspiring life as a music artist.

Maverick Kabelo27 Apr 20212 min read

Quote card: a man in a patterned head wrap and white robe holding a staff, beside a quote by Eyiedzi Buyantanshi

Music review

Stretch – Eyiedzi Buyantanshi

Stretch‘s debut album as a solo artist, Eyiedzi Buyantanshi, is a new type of genre that he is attempting to pioneer, ‘Neo-Afro’.

Maverick Kabelo26 Apr 20212 min read

Cover art for 6eorge Staggz's Flowertown Hero: a red rose beside the title on a pale street map with a red boundary

Music review

6eorge Staggz – Flowertown Hero

6eorge Staggz, a rapper and entrepreneur, recently released Flowertown Hero, a ‘movie soundtrack’ ep.

Maverick Kabelo19 Apr 20211 min read

Jordan MoOzy in round tinted sunglasses, a red tartan headband and a Tommy Jeans T-shirt, on a cover reading Recording Artist

Music

Jordan MoOzy on his childhood, nationality and music career

Emmanuel ‘Jordan MoOzy‘ Muzenda is a singer and songwriter born on the 29th of July 1998, hailing from Gaborone, Botswana, with roots in Masvingo, Zimbabwe.

Maverick Kabelo17 Apr 20213 min read

Henry Philemon in glasses and a white jacket, resting his hand on a cream and red guitar

Music

Jazz musician shares his journey

Henry Philemon, a Jazz artist from South Africa, took us on us a journey of his upbringing and career as a musician.

Caron Moloi20 Mar 20212 min read

Photography

Dudewiththething

Raised by a loving single mother, he first took interest in this industry at only seven years old after watching the movie, World War 2.

Maverick Kabelo14 Mar 20212 min read

Da QuTness in a backwards cap and a white striped Funk Street Culture T-shirt, hands clasped

Music

The hardest lesson Daqutness had to learn

Oteng Onalekitso Moilwa, popularly known as Da QuTness, is the producer of the hit song “Tinto”, by William Last KRM.

Caron Moloi30 Jan 20212 min read

Studio portrait of a bearded man in small oval sunglasses and a black blazer, head turned aside

Photography

Bina Daniel shoots for the stars

Bina Daniel, a talented photographer from Portharcourt, Nigeria, gave us an intriguing insight into his career in photography.

Caron Moloi19 Jan 20211 min read

Cover art for Life Through a Keyhole by Alcaido: a young man in a beanie, glasses and denim jacket on blue

Music review

Alcaido – Life through a Keyhole

Theophillus Ntakhwana, also known as Alcaido, is a talented local artist who is working on an EP project called “Life through a Keyhole“.

Caron Moloi23 Aug 20201 min read

Poetry

Dark way

We suffered along the long journeyThe road was grumpyWe strived and fought for whats bestBut the efforts ended effortlesslyPandemic made everyone uselessWhat you invest in fighting was useless

AVO11 Aug 20201 min read

Album cover for Amen by Abra Shmurda: a dim portrait of a man in a cap over a city at night, with a glowing red cross

Music review

DK Abra – Amen

Dk Abra is a Hip-Hop artist who recently produced and directed a spectacular musical project, that features various artists.

Caron Moloi10 Aug 20201 min read

Nicole Martinez in a beaded leather top and skirt with a fur tail and orange braids, against black

Music

You are only as good as your next

Nicole Martinez was born on 28 October and raised in the streets of Bontleng, a popular township in Gaborone.

Caron Moloi8 Aug 20203 min read

Cover art for Pluto's Favourite: a silver astronaut standing on a rocky moon surface under a dark sky

Music review

Gavin – Pluto’s favorite

“Pluto’s Favourite” is an album EP by GXVIN, which is inspired by Baby Pluto, commonly known as Lil Uzi Vert.

Caron Moloi8 Aug 20201 min read

Cover art for Road II Introspection by Crayon: a dark winding road with two blurred red vertical bands

Music review

Crayon – Introspection

Toro “CrayOn” Tseleng has been working on a tape titled ‘Introspection’ since early this year, as a challenge to himself.

Caron Moloi7 Aug 20201 min read

Cover art for Ngwana Yo by Slow G and Luther October, featuring Shaba Stele: a red devil-like woman figure on black

Music review

Slow g & Luther October – Ngwana Yo

Fresh Mafia Entertainment artists (Slow G & Luther October) are set to drop the first single from their upcoming EP, which is a 3-minute long song about girls based in urban and town areas.

Maverick Kabelo5 Aug 20201 min read

Cover art for Hotspot by Flyboi Yung and Click K44: photographers with cameras on a bright blue background

Music review

Flyboi Yung Kay – Hotspot

The song, Hotspot, by Flyboi – Yung Kay was recorded during the first lockdown while he was at The Golden Audio, with the company of Click K44, Shaba Stele and Teddy.

Caron Moloi3 Aug 20201 min read

Cover art for Pretty Girl by Official Max featuring Lay-Go Beats: a woman with long hair sitting on a pebble beach by the sea

Music review

Official Max – Pretty Girl

The Dancehall song, Official Max‘s first single to drop, is about his crush who he calls “Pretty Girl“, because he prefers to keep her name to himself.

Caron Moloi3 Aug 20201 min read

Make-up

Award nominated Mau talks to Poppie

Talent is an understatement for the beautiful Botho Pearl George.

Poppie Moseki1 Aug 20202 min read

A young musician in a dim studio with red and green lighting, looking down at a phone, pop filter behind

Music review

Alain Bright – Bright world

Phatsimo Goilwang, commonly known as Alain Bright is dropping a 5 track EP titled “BRIGHT WORLD” which features Current, with production from Vacks99 and Flex the Ninja:

Caron Moloi29 Jul 20201 min read

A man in a straw hat and cowboy boots sits chin in hand in dry scrubland with a donkey, cactus and old monitor

Photography

The computer scientist photographer

Pedro Oliveira is a Brazilian dude, fanatic for soccer, who spent most of his adult life in the United States of America, loves M&Ms and taking pictures.

Maverick Kabelo12 Jul 20207 min read

Music

An eager beaver in the music industry

Today’s feature is with none other than a singer and producer Mopati Ngidi, a Southern African alternative musician famously known as “7DaysOfSummer.”

Maverick Kabelo4 Jul 20203 min read

Puisano Sane in a red bucket hat, red sunglasses and red puffer jacket over a white hoodie

Fashion

Esthetically rich and pleasing fashion designer

Puisano Sane is the Founder and Creative Director of The Denim Loft BW.

Poppie Moseki1 Jul 20203 min read

Quote card of Rasun's Hard To Walk Away lyrics on yellow, beside a man in sunglasses with dreadlocks

Music

Q&A with Rasun

Rasun, one of the best Dancehall/Raggae musicians in the world, is loved by many for his crisp fresh voice.

Maverick Kabelo27 Jun 20205 min read

Book cover of Midnight Thoughts by Renee Dipheko, a starry night sky in deep blue, standing upright against a pale background

Book Review

Renée Dipheko talks about her book, Midnight Thoughts

“I find the night sky very surreal.

Maverick Kabelo27 Jun 20203 min read

Graphic Design

Q&A with the deaf designer

Who are you and what do you do?I now find the question “Who are you” deeply philosophical!

Maverick Kabelo26 Jun 202011 min read

Music

Q&A with Ammara Brown

Q.

Maverick Kabelo24 Jun 20205 min read

Miso Mphasha in an arty portrait, eyes closed, wearing a red headwrap and red flowing dress beneath tree branches

Literary Arts

Miso on her poetry breakthrough experience

Miso Mphasha is a 19-year-old Motswana poetess currently pursuing her studies as a Charted Accountant at Botswana Accountancy College.

Burnt Out Phoenix13 Jun 20205 min read

Poetry

When Karma gets angry

Time passes by and happiness seeps awayMy mind remains a vacant playground, allowing pain to come playEmotions come and go, day by dayAll I realise is I’ve intimidated Karma, and its my time to pay

Refilwe J. Mokgatlenyane23 May 20201 min read

Poetry

Snakes in suits

Your face displays a smile,But your teeth are sharp than even a knife.There is a devils loud cry behind your giggles.They won’t notice if they don’t study you cause you are tricky just like…

AVO18 May 20201 min read

Poetry

My storms

I like the little calm moments before the storm…The genuine I Love You’s.The him sweeping me off my feet moments where I feel like all existence has stopped because the only thing that seem to be of…

Burnt Out Phoenix17 May 20201 min read