Botswana: Woman Breaks Into DJs World

 

 

 

Botswana: Woman Breaks Into DJs World

 

Mmegi/The Reporter (Gaborone)

January 15, 2007
Posted to the web January 17, 2007

 

Mogomotsi Moloi
Francistown

For years, there has never been a woman who was interested in being a DJ. The practice was viewed as a man's domain though some women had the passion. But things have changed.

Bonolo Mothibi's mother was surprised to learn that her firstborn daughter aspired to be a DJ. And her whole family was most skeptical about the whole thing. "Like every mother, my mother wanted to see me getting learned and get a lucrative job," says the 24-year-old lady DJ. Tiny and pint-sized as she is, she is not fazed by detractors. She said she loves her challenging job and declares that she intends to be the first Motswana woman to venture into this field and succeed. She is also a music promoter, probably the first in Francistown. She said her promotion company, Bonifid Promotions, has promised wonders this year and aims to make history.

"Music has always been my love. I had always had a passion for it but I failed due to some challenges," explains the former St Josephs College student who hails from Matsiloje in the North East District. She strongly believes that there is no way she could fail where others have succeeded. Her believe is that where there is a will there is a way. During the festive season, Mothibi joined other big names in the industry to entertain people in a couple of shows in Francistown and Orapa where she fascinated many revealers.

It was the first experience for many to see a woman spinning the discs confidently. After temporarily working as a receptionist for GABS FM last year, Mothibi fell deeply in love with music. That is where she learned everything about turntables and the mixing technique. "It was funny, fulfilling and extraordinary to learn how to mix various types of music," she said. Because she is yet to establish herself as a DJ, Mothibi seeks assistance from Francistown-based DJ Big Daddy and acknowledges him as the pillar in her endeavour.

As a promoter, Mothibi's company debuted with a show, dubbed First Lady of the Decks, last September. Women DJs face difficult situations because they are not given a chance to prove themselves, she said. Successful women in the music industry, such as Zenzele Hirchfield of Zen Promotions, have motivated Mothibi and she feels she can do it too. "I am still young and I believe I can deliver if given a chance. Maybe I would eventually record an album," revealed the Hip Hop and House music fanatic.

Although her family was not happy at her move, she is happy now that she receives massive support from them. One of her resolutions this year is to improve her DJing skills. Apart from music, Mothibi, in partnership with her friend, owns Monbabo Catering Services, a catering company in Francistown.