Institute of Entrepreneurial Development - IED

Today, we honour the courageous young people who participated in the Soweto Uprising of 16 June 1976. Their bravery, resilience and determination to fight for a better future continue to inspire generations across Africa.

As we commemorate Youth Day, we are reminded that young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow—they are the change-makers of today. Let us continue to invest in their education, empower their entrepreneurial ambitions, and create opportunities that enable them to realise their full potential.

At IED, we remain committed to developing young people who will shape businesses, transform communities and contribute meaningfully to national development.

We salute the youth of 1976 and celebrate the youth of today.

📢 MOLEPOLOLE YOUTH, DON'T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY!

The Ministry of Youth and Gender Affairs, in collaboration with the Office of the MP for Molepolole South, invites young people to the Molepolole Youth Pitso 2026.

This important engagement seeks to connect youth with opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship, leadership, and economic inclusion.

📅 Date: 18 June 2026
⏰ Time: 09:00 hrs
📍 Venue: Molepolole IHS

Theme: Unlocking Opportunities, Building Futures, Creating Pathways to Employment, Enterprise and Economic Inclusion.

Whether you are a student, job seeker, entrepreneur, or aspiring leader, this is an opportunity to engage, learn, network, and explore available opportunities.

See you there!

𝐌𝐎𝐋𝐄𝐏𝐎𝐋𝐎𝐋𝐄 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐓𝐇 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐒 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐌𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓!

Join Hon. Lesego Chombo Minister of Youth and Gender Affairs and Hon. Shima Monageng, Member of Parliament for Molepolole South for an inspiring Youth Pitso designed to connect young people with opportunities for growth, employment, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

Theme: Unlocking Opportunities, Building Futures, Creating Pathways to Employment, Enterprise and Economic Inclusion.

📍 Molepolole IHS
⏱️09:00hrs
🗓️18 June 2026

𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐟𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. 𝐃𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐭!

FIRST YOUTH SESSIONS

We had an engaging and insightful session with Khumo Mase, who shared practical lessons on financial literacy and the journey to financial freedom.

She encouraged participants to develop a culture of saving and investing, emphasizing that anyone can start investing regardless of how little they have. She also urged them to make wise financial decisions today for a more secure future.

Ms. Mase highlighted the importance of avoiding unnecessary debt, explaining the difference between good debt and bad debt, and encouraged participants to use debt only for opportunities that create value and generate income.

She further cautioned against lifestyle inflation, reminding participants that increasing income should not always lead to increased spending.
The session was both informative and empowering, equipping participants with practical tools to build healthier financial habits and achieve long-term financial freedom.

FNBF and IED, a partnership that empowers the youth!

FIRST YOUTH SESSIONS

As we concluded Module 1: Life Competencies, we were privileged to host Ms. Goitseone Ketlhalefile, a property developer, Life Coach and serial entrepreneur behind GK Designs, Geo Archaeology & Research Group, and Salon La Belle, who shared her inspiring entrepreneurial journey.

Ms. Ketlhalefile reflected on her transition from a permanent and pensionable career as a Design & Technology teacher to becoming a successful entrepreneur. She emphasized the importance of developing key entrepreneurial competencies and encouraged trainees to identify areas where they need growth. Drawing from her own experience, she explained how certain personal competencies gave her the confidence to leave formal employment and pursue her entrepreneurial aspirations.

A key message from her presentation was the importance of aligning one's work with their passion and purpose. She highlighted that her businesses are built around what she genuinely loves, which has enabled her to remain resilient and committed despite the challenges she encounters along the way.

She also candidly discussed some of the challenges she faces as an entrepreneur. These included maintaining compliance and ensuring that all business documentation is up to date, which allows businesses to operate smoothly and seize opportunities when they arise. She further highlighted the importance of having the right team in place, noting that a weak team structure can place significant strain on a business owner. Managing multiple businesses and wearing many hats also presents challenges, which she mitigates through careful planning and daily work schedules.

The session was both insightful and motivating, encouraging trainees to look within themselves and recognize the opportunities that can emerge from their skills, knowledge, talents, experiences, and passions. It served as a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship is not only about starting a business, but also about understanding oneself and unlocking one's full potential.

IED and FNBF, a partnership that empowers the youth!

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!