Institute of Entrepreneurial Development - IED

FIRST YOUTH PROGRAMME COHORT 11 – GROUP 2 ORIENTATION

Today we officially welcomed another exciting group of young people into the First Youth Programme as Group 2 Orientation got underway!

To inspire and encourage the new cohort, we were joined by former First Youth participants who shared their entrepreneurial journeys, experiences, lessons, and insights: Dineo Pelaelo of Aspiration Forge, a training and consultancy company based in Gaborone. Next was Nthabiseng Mokaraoke of Green Vision also based in Gaborone, participating in agriculture and its value chain. Lastly we had Refilwe Moatshe, currently employed as a Manager at the Ministry of Communications and Innovation kn Gaborone. She credits the programme for helping her land her current job.

At First Youth, we continue to empower young people through entrepreneurship development and workplace readiness, helping them move from potential to purpose.

We look forward to an impactful and transformational 4 months ahead with this new cohort of future entrepreneurs and professionals.

🌟 SUCCESS STORY SPOTLIGHT 🌟

From Creativity to Influence — The Rise of Akunlandu Chidoda

Meet Akunlandu Chidoda, a dynamic entrepreneur whose journey reflects the true essence of modern entrepreneurship — blending creativity, leadership, and purpose. Through his brand AC, Akunlandu has built a powerful, multifaceted platform anchored on excellence, innovation, and impact.

Fashion Meets Identity – ACDESIGNS
At the heart of the brand is ACDESIGNS, the fashion and creative arm dedicated to crafting custom garments and African-inspired designs. More than just clothing, each piece tells a story — celebrating culture, confidence, and bold self-expression. The brand has dressed both corporate men and women and reached notable milestones, including showcasing at a prestigious event hosted for the First Lady of Estonia by former First Lady Mrs Neo Masisi.

Commanding the Stage – Professional MC
Akunlandu is also a seasoned Master of Ceremonies, known for bringing structure, charisma, and energy to every event. From weddings to corporate functions, his presence transforms gatherings into memorable experiences. His journey includes hosting platforms such as IED graduation ceremonies and various seminars. He recently brilliantly MC’d the Cohort 11 Group 1 Orientation Session this past Monday, setting the tone with energy, professionalism, and engaging presence.

Transforming Lives – Speaker & Change Agent
Beyond business, Akunlandu is passionate about empowering young people. As a transformational speaker, he has engaged schools and communities across Botswana, addressing topics such as exam anxiety and personal development. His voice continues to shape and inspire the next generation.

Building Platforms – Glam & Grind
His vision extends into creating platforms for others. As the founder of Glam & Grind, Akunlandu has created a space that celebrates ambition, creativity, and entrepreneurship — bringing together dreamers and doers under one roof.
Akunlandu’s growing influence has earned him recognition across major platforms, including features on national television, radio, and print media, as well as a nomination at the 4th Annual Glitz Awards.

His journey is a powerful reminder:
Success today is not confined to one path — it is built at the intersection of passion, creativity, and purpose. From designing garments to designing impact, AC is not just a brand — it is a movement.

FIRST YOUTH PROGRAMME COHORT 11 ORIENTATION SESSION

Today marked an exciting start as we successfully held Orientation for Group 1 of Cohort 11 under the First Youth Programme!

We were honoured to host Thato Khomela as our Guest Speaker — a renowned visual artist and entrepreneur specializing in large-scale wall art (murals), portraits, sculptures, painting classes, and art events. His work continues to shape Botswana’s creative landscape, with the Ministry of Youth and Culture regularly engaging him to spearhead monumental art projects. His footprint includes murals at Maximum Prison, Main Mall, and the Ministry of Agriculture, as well as commissioned works for notable figures such as Lesego Chombo and Letsile Tebogo.

The session was powerfully directed by Akunlandu Chidoda, a dynamic entrepreneur, creative director, fashion designer, Master of Ceremonies (MC), and transformational speaker — as well as a proud former student. A true reflection of the programme’s impact.

We also welcomed back our alumni who continue to embody what the programme stands for: Lindiwe Letlhoma of Siki’s Bakery, known for using stoneground flour packed with fiber, iron, minerals, and vitamins, producing wholesome, nutritious baked goods. We also had Thabo Batsho Mazwiduma of Move Me, a transport & logistics company based in Gaborone as well as Gladness Rabogadi of Optifill, specializing in ink refill services supplying small business owners, tertiary students and more.

They shared authentic stories of growth, resilience, and transformation, highlighting how the First Youth Programme has shaped their entrepreneurial journeys. Their message was clear: this programme works if you commit to it.

At First Youth, we are proud to continue empowering entrepreneurs and transforming communities—one cohort at a time.

📍 Next up: Group 2 Orientation this Wednesday!
We look forward to welcoming the next group of future entrepreneurs and work ready change makers!

IED and FNBF, a partnership that empowers the youth!

🌟 SUCCESS STORY SPOTLIGHT 🌟
From skill to structure to a trusted brand. This is what real growth looks like.

Meet Mookodi Makhaya, a proud Cohort 3 graduate of the First Youth Programme, and the force behind Anaya Creations. What started as hands-on craftsmanship has evolved into a reliable and professional service business, delivering quality work across custom carpentry and joinery, tiling, plumbing, and electrical work, fittings and brickwork, on-site projects and general maintenance.

But this journey was not built on comfort.
It was built on showing up when it was tough, delivering under pressure and choosing standards over shortcuts.

Today, Anaya Creations is more than just a service provider. It is a brand people can rely on. We are proud of you Mr Makhaya!

🇧🇼GOOD LUCK TEAM BOTSWANA! 🇧🇼

The moment is here! As the Debswana World Athletics Relays kick off right here in Gaborone today, we stand united behind our athletes. You carry the hopes, pride, and spirit of a nation. We know you will fly the Botswana flag high! Run with heart. Run with purpose. Run for Botswana.

Let’s go Team Botswana! 🏃🏾‍♂️🏃🏾‍♀️🔥

The possibilities are endless. Fo claim them! 💪

Celebrating the strength, dedication and contribution of every worker!

🌟 SUCCESS STORY SPOTLIGHT 🌟

From Confusion to Clarity: Tsholofelo Josephine Sebifo’s Journey into Purpose

Tsholofelo Josephine Sebifo, a proud graduate of the First Youth Programme (Cohort 9, 2025), says she joined the First Youth Programme at a point of uncertainty. Like many young people, she was exploring multiple interests but lacked clear direction, discipline, and self-awareness.

Through the programme's structured entrepreneurship training, mentorship, and experiential learning approach, Tsholofelo underwent a powerful transformation. She discovered one of the most critical drivers of success—clarity of purpose. This clarity became the foundation for her growth, igniting focus, consistency, and a renewed inner drive.

Today, Tsholofelo is a Certified Life Coach and the founder of BoldBloom Africa Group, a purpose-driven platform committed to empowering individuals, especially young people to grow, gain clarity, and unlock their full potential. Through one-on-one coaching, group sessions, and empowerment talks, she continues to impact lives and inspire transformation.

Beyond coaching, she has also established herself as a dynamic Master of Ceremonies (MC), known for her energy, professionalism, and ability to connect with diverse audiences. Her passion for personal development is further reflected in her authorship of the Breakthrough Series, including:
Breakthrough: Finding Strength in Your Struggles and Confidence in Your Calling
Breakthrough: Rising Beyond Fear
(Available on Amazon Kindle)

Tsholofelo continues to explore entrepreneurial opportunities aligned with her purpose, demonstrating a strong commitment to growth, impact, and value creation. Her journey reflects the essence of what we stand for at IED—empowering entrepreneurs and transforming communities.
Tsholofelo Sebifo is a testament to what is possible when clarity meets action.

Your Voice Matters, Youth of Botswana! The future of programmes like BNSP and YDF is being shaped right now, and you have a seat at the table.

This is not just another meeting. It’s your chance to influence opportunities, funding, skills development and national service pathways that directly affect your future. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, job seeker, student, or innovator, your input is needed.

Don’t just complain about systems… help design them. Don’t sit on the sidelines… step into the conversation. Let’s show up, speak up, and shape a better Botswana for youth.

Join us tomorrow virtually for the
Validation of Youth Development Fund

(Afternoon session, starting at 2pm)

Microsoft Teams meeting

Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/318506946027655?p=pXDsNzgdF0D0oQAb6b

Meeting ID: 318 506 946 027 655
Passcode: tb79fF3p