Kefentse Gokganwang, a top local model, has been selected to participate in the prestigious Top Model UK competition, which will take place in London on September 20, 2025. This marks a significant milestone in Gokganwang’s career, as she finally gets the opportunity to fulfill her international modelling dreams after a setback caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In an exclusive interview with Showtime, Gokganwang shared that she was initially chosen for the competition in 2020 but was unable to attend due to the pandemic. “It was the worst news I ever received. The borders were closed just five days before I was supposed to leave for London,” she recalled. However, Gokganwang did not give up on her dreams. In December of the following year, she reapplied for the competition, and the organizers, recognizing her previous application and the circumstances surrounding her inability to participate, offered her another chance.
For Gokganwang, this opportunity represents a lifetime aspiration. “This is exactly what I have been waiting for in my entire modelling career,” she expressed. She has always dreamed of making her mark internationally, walking the runways of prestigious fashion shows, and working with influential figures in the global fashion industry. Gokganwang’s participation in Top Model UK will also see her working alongside models, content creators, producers, organizers, and management for the renowned London Fashion Week, one of the world’s top four major fashion events.
Gokganwang is not only focused on advancing her own career but also sees this competition as a means to build valuable networks and connections that could benefit her long-term goals. She hopes to gain insights and knowledge that will help her mentor young, aspiring models back home. “I want to use this opportunity to give back to the community by sharing what I have learned and helping the next generation of models grow without being exploited,” she explained.
Gokganwang’s journey into modelling began at the age of 12 when she was encouraged by a friend to participate in a local competition. Despite having no prior training, she was recognized for her natural talent. This experience sparked her passion for modelling, leading her to pursue further opportunities in pageantry and, later, professional modelling. She signed up with a modelling agency in Molepolole during her senior school years, which helped refine her skills and guided her towards a career in modelling rather than pageantry.
Throughout her career, Gokganwang has participated in numerous local fashion shows and one international event, Soweto Fashion Week in 2018. Looking ahead, she aspires to sign with prominent international modelling agencies and work for luxury brands and top designers.
Gokganwang, who is also a devout Christian, shared her belief that modelling is not inherently wrong, as it is a God-given talent. She emphasized the importance of staying aligned with God’s will and using one’s talents for positive purposes. “God expects us to use our talents and multiply them,” she said, acknowledging the challenges that come with pursuing such a demanding career. The financial aspects of the competition, including travel, accommodation, and wardrobe costs, are also significant hurdles that she has worked hard to overcome.
As Gokganwang prepares for this momentous opportunity in London, it is clear that her dedication and perseverance are driving her toward greater heights in the modelling world. With her eyes set on the international stage, she is ready to make her mark, while also uplifting the next generation of models in Botswana.
