Magonare’s rise to fashion fame
Nnasaretha Kgamanyane | Monday March 2, 2026 06:00
The young model and fashion sensation from Sowa Town has entered the fray, exhibiting self-confidence, talent, and passion for modelling. Mogonare, a Standard 4 student at Flamingo International School, has just been selected for the prestigious Fashion Without Borders fashion show. “It was exciting when my mother told me about the response,” she says, beaming with pride. “I went through two phases of audition, and it is my dream come true to be on the international ramp doing what I love,” she said. With two years of modelling experience, Mogonare has already won the Top Model award in her first competition and landed a corporate shoot for Botswana Life. Her participation in the Fashion Without Borders fashion show is a major milestone in her young career.
“I hope to achieve more industry recognition, gain experience on a diverse runway, and build valuable connections,” she says. “I want to learn more from other models and experience the international standards of modelling,” she adds. Mogonare’s passion for modelling is driven by her desire to express herself and push beyond her limits. “Modelling allows me to manage my time effectively, and I love walking on the ramp,” she says. However, Mogonare has not had it all smooth sailing. She faced challenges adapting to new environments and meeting models with different experiences.
“To overcome this, I practice, learn to gain experience, and work on building a strong portfolio,” she advises. Looking ahead, Mogonare’s short-term goals include investing in high-quality photoshoots and securing presentations through auditions. Her long-term goal is to build her brand and become a recognised voice for inclusion in the fashion industry. As she prepares for the Fashion Without Borders fashion show, Mogonare is grateful for the support of her school and the Botash Fitness Centre. “This is a platform to showcase my talent and network with industry leaders, models, and fashion designers,” she says.
Mogonare’s personal style is contemporary and comfortable, and she wears what makes her happy and sends a message to her audience. What sets her apart is her ability to connect with the audience and her passion for storytelling through fashion. The young model is excited about the industry’s shift towards sustainability and inclusivity. “I fit in by being vocal about representation of the young, which builds and prepares the future generation to fit into the industry,” she says. Mogonare believes the fashion industry should prioritise diversity and inclusivity, featuring models of different body types, skin tones, ages, and abilities. “We should also mentor different talents from design and leadership to create a pool of talent,” she adds. As Magonare takes the international stage, she’s not just representing Botswana; she is inspiring a new generation of young models to chase their dreams.