Pesalema wins Gospel Icon title
Lucy Kgweetsi | Wednesday September 17, 2025 06:01
Known in the competition as Icon 06, Motshodi became the first contestant to hold the title after weeks of auditions and performances that began late last year. The competition started in December 2024 with auditions in Maun. From there, the process moved to Palapye and then later Gaborone in January 2025. Contestants from across the country took part, each hoping to secure a place in the final stages. Those who advanced went through further rounds until a small group was left to perform for the grand finale. The finale was staged before a live audience and broadcast for viewers at home. Each finalist performed individually, presenting songs that were assessed on vocal ability, stage presence, and interpretation of gospel music. The audience responded with visible support, and moments of strong performance drew loud applause.
Judges for the competition were Khumo “Missgeekays” Kgwaadira, who is known for her work as a media personality and songwriter, Samantha Mogwe, and Sibongiseni Buhle Thela, a pastor and vocal coach connected to Joyous Celebration. Their role was to evaluate the finalists and help decide who would become the first Poso Gospel Icon. At the end of the night, the judges and voting system confirmed Motshodi as the winner. Her performances during the season had set her apart, and her final appearance reinforced the impression that she had the strongest combination of voice, control, and ability to connect with the audience. Her win was met with support in the venue, closing the competition on a decisive note. The competition was organised by BotswanaPost in partnership with Brave Heart and Joyous Celebration. Alongside the music element, BotswanaPost attached other projects to the initiative, including Kwala Tempa Posa, which promotes letter writing, and the use of digital platforms such as PosoMoney and Posa’it. While the additions formed part of the programme, the central focus remained on giving gospel singers a stage on which to perform and be judged. For Motshodi, the victory gives her national recognition and the platform that comes with being the first winner of a new competition.
For the organisers, the result demonstrated that the structure of auditions, live shows, and a finale could successfully produce a winner while also drawing public interest. For the judges, the outcome highlighted the qualities they considered important in gospel performance: strength of voice, consistency, conviction, and stage presence. The finale brought the first season to an end and left a record of who took part and who won. Whether the competition returns for a second season will depend on decisions made by the organisers, but the first season established a process and a result that can serve as a reference point.