At 31-years-old, she became the youngest minister in Botswana. Bogolo Joy Kenewendo, who is an economist as well as a politician was born and bred in Motopi village in the Boteti area of Botswana. She currently serves as the Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, in the Cabinet of Botswana.
However, her accession to parliament and cabinet at such a young age is not the only reason why she should be everyone’s career goals – Kenewendo, is more highly qualified than many of her older counterparts on the continent and her accession was on merit – something that also sets her apart.
Kenewendo made this statement after her appointment; “My path has kept changing as my life changes and as I see new opportunities, but the consistent undertone is my desire to impact development through policy in one office or the other. I am passionate about youth and women empowerment. There is so much more we can accomplish by ensuring that we invest in these resources. There is also a need for economic development, especially through private sector growth.” “I now get to serve my country and look forward to being a voice for many more young people out there,” she added.
Although it might seem like the young dynamo burst onto the political stage from nowhere, her journey has included admirable work through Molaya Kgosi, a women leadership, and a mentorship programme. Kenewendo was one of the founders of this programme following her encounter with the US First Lady Michelle Obama during her Young African Leaders Initiative (Yali) experience.
Bogolo Kenewendo has so many achievements under her belt, and it is clear that her country will benefit from many more to come.
If you think you’re too young to lead… think again.
Ask yourself this question; what will it cost me to make a difference in my community/country?
