Tru’DCreationz redefines Botswana fashion
Lucy Kgweetsi | Monday July 28, 2025 09:58
As the founder of Tru’DCreationz, she has steadily built a brand rooted in creativity, environmental responsibility, and a desire to uplift others through her work. Her journey into fashion didn’t begin in a studio or at a fashion school, but at home under the watchful eye of her grandmother, who taught her how to sew. That simple act sparked what would become a serious pursuit, eventually developing into a business that now serves as a growing voice in Botswana’s design space.
Tru’DCreationz is often associated with handcrafted leather items like bags and accessories, but that is only a part of what Bakwena offers. Her collections go far beyond that, including garments crafted from a variety of materials such as cotton, denim, and recycled textiles. Her approach is defined by zero-waste techniques and an ethic of sustainability. “We recycle and reuse fabric off-cuts to create garments that are not only visually beautiful but also environmentally friendly,” she explained. In her hands, leftover fabric becomes coats, dresses, patchwork blazers, or unexpected statement pieces that reflect originality and resourcefulness. Her work has reached platforms such as Fashion Without Borders, where she showcased designs under her own name among a diverse group of African creatives. These events highlighted not only her talent but also her ability to stand beside more established names while bringing her distinct perspective.
Her aesthetic doesn’t follow a single direction. It shifts sometimes bold, other times soft, sometimes structured, other times flowing. What remains constant is the care she puts into every detail. She doesn’t chase trends. Instead, she allows her designs to be shaped by instinct, context, and conscious choice. Running a creative business, especially one grounded in such intentionality, hasn’t come without difficulty. Bakwena speaks openly about the challenges. “Business has not been a bed of roses. I’ve had to deal with late payments, technical issues, and moments of doubt. But instead of being discouraged, I saw these issues as part of my growth.” She said.
“Every challenge has forced me to learn something. It’s frustrating, yes, but it teaches you to be practical, to think on your feet, and to stay focused.” She added. Her ambitions are not limited to her success. Bakwena envisions using her brand as a platform to support other local designers and emerging creatives. She believes Botswana’s fashion industry has potential, but that more investment in youth and training is needed. “There’s so much talent here. People just need support, mentorship, and opportunities,” she said.
She hopes Tru’DCreationz could one day create jobs, training spaces, and opportunities for collaboration that go beyond one designer’s vision. In recent months, her designs have quietly made their way into the national spotlight. Among those who’ve worn her work are Ruth Thomas, the reigning Miss Botswana and Anicia Gaothusi, former Miss Botswana. Bakwena doesn’t use it as a marketing point but acknowledges what it means. “It’s encouraging to see my work worn by someone representing the country. But for me, the biggest thing is how it makes the person feel. If someone feels powerful or beautiful in something I made, that’s what matters most,” she says. Alongside her design goals, she’s also committed to giving back.
She plans to host seasonal fashion shows not only to showcase local talent but to raise awareness about social issues. For her, fashion can do more than decorate; it can provoke thought, connect communities, and serve a broader purpose. “Fashion brings people together. Why not use that moment to talk about things that matter too?” she asks.