With dynamism and dedication, Lesego Chombo is making waves as Botswana's youngest cabinet minister at just 27 years old. A crowned beauty queen in both Miss Botswana 2022 and Miss World Africa 2024, Chombo has transitioned from the spotlight of pageantry to a pivotal role in governance. Not only is she a lawyer with her own charitable foundation, but she also serves as the Minister of Youth and Gender under the newly elected President Duma Boko.
Appointed after Boko's party, the Umbrella for Democratic Change, won a historic election victory, Chombo has taken on the pressing challenge of proving that youth can lead the charge toward economic revitalization. "I've never been more proud to be young," she expressed, reflecting her steadfast commitment to youth development and gender equality.
Chombo was appointed as a specially elected member of parliament and finds herself among a small contingent of female MPs in the 69-member National Assembly. Describing her rise to ministerial position as surprising, she credits her Miss Botswana title for amplifying her voice in social issues, particularly those facing young women in her community. The Lesego Chombo Foundation she established aims to uplift disadvantaged youth, a cause she remains passionate about.
During her tenure, addressing the high unemployment rate—particularly among youth and women—remains a top priority. "Currently in Botswana, the rates of unemployment are so high," she asserted, vowing to create a supportive ecosystem where young people can pursue entrepreneurial endeavors. With Botswana's economy heavily reliant on diamonds, Chombo is intent on diversifying opportunities for the country's youth through tailored policies and active inclusion in decision-making processes.
In light of rising gender-based violence in Botswana, where a staggering percentage of women report abuse, Chombo faces scrutiny as she advocates for more robust implementation of existing laws rather than introducing new policies. She believes awareness and educational reforms beginning from a young age are essential to combat these issues effectively.
Chombo openly acknowledges the societal pressures that young women encounter, especially in leadership roles. Her upbringing, mentored by strong women, serves as both an inspiration and a reminder of the barriers that must be dismantled for future generations. "Women have to work 10 times harder," she explains, underscoring the importance of transforming cultural narratives around gender.
While remaining mindful of the obstacles ahead, Chombo is committed to leaving a lasting impact on Botswana. Her vision encompasses clear actionable steps towards socio-economic change, aiming for a future where young voices are heard and valued, and gender equity is a lived reality. In her eyes, success is measured by tangible, sustainable impact, something she dedicates her leadership to achieving.
As Botswana embarks on a transformative political journey, women like Lesego Chombo represent a beacon of hope—championing inclusivity, empowerment, and change for a brighter future.
Appointed after Boko's party, the Umbrella for Democratic Change, won a historic election victory, Chombo has taken on the pressing challenge of proving that youth can lead the charge toward economic revitalization. "I've never been more proud to be young," she expressed, reflecting her steadfast commitment to youth development and gender equality.
Chombo was appointed as a specially elected member of parliament and finds herself among a small contingent of female MPs in the 69-member National Assembly. Describing her rise to ministerial position as surprising, she credits her Miss Botswana title for amplifying her voice in social issues, particularly those facing young women in her community. The Lesego Chombo Foundation she established aims to uplift disadvantaged youth, a cause she remains passionate about.
During her tenure, addressing the high unemployment rate—particularly among youth and women—remains a top priority. "Currently in Botswana, the rates of unemployment are so high," she asserted, vowing to create a supportive ecosystem where young people can pursue entrepreneurial endeavors. With Botswana's economy heavily reliant on diamonds, Chombo is intent on diversifying opportunities for the country's youth through tailored policies and active inclusion in decision-making processes.
In light of rising gender-based violence in Botswana, where a staggering percentage of women report abuse, Chombo faces scrutiny as she advocates for more robust implementation of existing laws rather than introducing new policies. She believes awareness and educational reforms beginning from a young age are essential to combat these issues effectively.
Chombo openly acknowledges the societal pressures that young women encounter, especially in leadership roles. Her upbringing, mentored by strong women, serves as both an inspiration and a reminder of the barriers that must be dismantled for future generations. "Women have to work 10 times harder," she explains, underscoring the importance of transforming cultural narratives around gender.
While remaining mindful of the obstacles ahead, Chombo is committed to leaving a lasting impact on Botswana. Her vision encompasses clear actionable steps towards socio-economic change, aiming for a future where young voices are heard and valued, and gender equity is a lived reality. In her eyes, success is measured by tangible, sustainable impact, something she dedicates her leadership to achieving.
As Botswana embarks on a transformative political journey, women like Lesego Chombo represent a beacon of hope—championing inclusivity, empowerment, and change for a brighter future.
