British entrepreneur, investor, and popular podcaster Steven Bartlett has revealed a deeply personal side of his story — his Botswana heritage. In a touching Facebook post, Bartlett shared a rare family photo from 1992 with the caption:
“Me and my family in Botswana, Africa in 1992 where I was born. I’m the little baby, those are my older brothers and sisters + my mum and dad. I owe everything I am to those 5 people. I’ve never had any family beyond the people in this picture.”
Many know Steven Bartlett as the sharp-minded founder of Social Chain, a Dragon on BBC’s Dragons’ Den, and the voice behind the hit podcast The Diary of a CEO. But few knew that the media mogul was born right here in Botswana.
In the heartfelt post, Steven paid tribute to both his parents, who shaped the man he is today.
“My mum is the hardest working person I’ve ever encountered – Nigerian, strong and courageous. She taught me what it means to show up every day, regardless of circumstance and give everything you have.”
“My dad is the most loving and caring man I’ve ever known – from Coventry. He taught me, by example, what it is to be a dad, what it is to care and what it is to love your family unconditionally. To them I owe everything.”
For many Batswana, this revelation hits close to home. It’s a proud reminder that global trailblazers like Bartlett can trace their roots to our soil. Born in Gaborone, Steven spent the earliest part of his life in Botswana before his family relocated to the UK, where his journey to success began.
His post has since gone viral, sparking warm reactions across social media, especially from Batswana who feel seen and inspired by his story.
As Botswana continues to nurture its youth into future leaders, Steven Bartlett’s recognition of his roots serves as a powerful reminder: greatness can begin anywhere — even from a small, beautiful country in Southern Africa.
From Botswana to the boardrooms of Europe, Steven Bartlett is living proof that heritage matters — and that where you come from is never something to hide, but something to be proud of.
