GOITSE KGASWANE - unite and support each other

Welcome to the seventh edition of “Empowering #Women”; which is a weekly #series that reveals how successful women got to where they are now. This week, we interviewed “Goitse Kgaswane” and asked her a series of questions to learn more about her journey in a world dominated by men. Have a read and see what she had to say.

PLEASE INTRODUCE YOURSELF AND TELL OUR AUDIENCE WHAT YOU DO.  

My name is GOITSE KGASWANE and those who do not know me; I was one of the Botswana Representatives at the 2014 Big Brother Africa season 9 Hotshots. I am a professional dancer, events MC and Entrepreneur.  

HOW DID YOU GET INTO THIS INDUSTRY AND WHY THIS PARTICULAR ONE.  

My passion for dance landed me into the Entertainment industry. I have been dancing competitively and professionally for 11 years now. I believe I was meant to share my gift with the world. 

PLEASE SHARE YOUR JOURNEY WITH OUR READERS FROM YOUR BEGINNINGS TILL NOW.  

The first time I performed on stage was when I was 5 years old and I loved it. I then went from one stage to another until I got into competitive ballroom dancing at age 15. After Secondary School I got in touch with Kabelo Tiro “Skavenja” who taught me commercial dancing.   In 2010, I began my studies for a Bachelors Degree in Theatre Arts at the University of Botswana. While in varsity I freelanced as backup dancer and worked with local artists like; Hellen Dikobe, Punah Gabasiane, Nnunu Ramogotsi, Zeus and many more. I also got the opportunity to share the stage with international artists; Zahara, Flava, Joe Thomas, Tshepo Tshola, HHP and so many others. I went on to dance on prestigious events like, BNSC awards 2013-16, beMobile 2011 and a tour to the United States of America NY in 2012.   Big Brother was also a highlight in my journey and since then I have graced numerous huge stages (I am Legend Concert 2015, GIMC 2015-16, Hamptons Jazz Festival 2015-16 to name a few) as an MC.  

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES YOU’VE FACED IN THIS INDUSTRY YOU’RE IN AND HAD TO DEAL WITH BECAUSE YOU ARE A WOMAN AND HOW DO YOU OVERCOME THEM?  

Being a woman in a male dominated industry is very challenging and comes with a distinct set of barriers. Women are just as capable and we work twice as hard to make it. I’m passionate about my career and want to excel and build a legacy. I don’t want to only be celebrated when I’m no longer alive, acknowledge, respect and celebrate my craft now. I value my craft and take my profession seriously because I have bills to pay. I chose to follow this path, so I work hard. 

WHAT DO YOU THINK COULD BE DONE DIFFERENT TO ENSURE OTHERS DON’T FACE THE SAME CHALLENGES AND ADVERSITY?  

We just have to unite and support each other as female entertainers and collaborate with our fellow brothers. It’s high time a bridge is put in this gender gap once and for all, so as to pave the way for the next generation of entertainers that’ll come after us. Respect that’s all we need.  

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR ALL THE WOMEN READING THIS THAT WISH TO BE LIKE YOU?  

“You are never too young to start an empire and never too old to chase a new dream.” Never let fear dictate your life, you are in control.  

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE THAT OTHER PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT?  

Houses and Cars. I’m obsessed. I watch property and motoring shows all the time. I can’t wait to start collecting.  

IF I WAS A MAN FOR A DAY I WOULD…  

Sunbathe topless.  

THE BEST ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED.  

Oh my, I have received a lot of advice in my life from truly amazing people but the one that stands out the most is from my lovely friend Bulelwa Mkutukana, she said, “God’s time is the best time.”