Volume 65 December 2026-January 2026 : Feature

In a world where labels and appearances often overshadow individuality, Pako Pearl Lekoko stands out, not just for her petite stature but for her remarkable journey and unwavering determination. Adjectives like “Smally” and “Dynamite” seem to elude her given name, overshadowed by her humble approachability and extraordinary talent. 

At just 30 years old, Lekoko has shattered barriers, relentlessly pursuing her vision with passion, persistence, and a contagious zeal for life. Her journey reflects an individual who has transcended challenges, becoming a beacon of hope for others in her community.

Her  record of achievements speaks volumes. Since winning the Top Achiever Scholarship for A-levels in 2013, Lekoko has amassed an impressive portfolio of accolades. Notably, she received the 2024 Youth Employment Award for Best Youth Creating Opportunity in the International Space and the 12th Africa and Middle East Gender Mainstreaming Award for Positive Role Model. 

Her relentless drive is deeply rooted in her mother’s sacrifices, which allowed Pako to transition from public to private schooling, an investment that paved the way for her bright future. “My mom saw that my future mattered most,” she reflects with gratitude.

With regards to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), Lekoko is best described as STEM pioneer. She graduated with five A*s, two As, and one B from Rainbow School before pursuing her studies at Kent University through Botswana’s Top Achiever Programme. 

“I think at my core, I am a Mathematician,” she explains, observing how mathematics fuels her everyday life. “Whether it’s braiding my own hair or managing projects, I find patterns and numbers in everything.”

Today, one can safely say Lekoko is a rising star in Data Analytics. After earning her Master’s Degree in Business Analytics with a stunning 85 per cent distinction, Lekoko was head-hunted by Growth Matrix Solutions. This small organisation, driven by a big vision, played a significant role in launching her career in data analytics. 

Her contributions at Debswana, particularly during their digital transformation phase, allowed her to automate reporting processes and develop innovative data analytics solutions, solidifying her role as a pivotal figure in the industry. “I had the opportunity to lead several projects and work closely with key departments,” she shares.

She has a vision for future generations. Determined to empower other young achievers, Lekoko launched *The Runway, a nonprofit organisation aimed at addressing the challenges faced by Batswana students studying abroad. “I noticed that top achievers often fell short when they left home,” she comments, noting the absence of a supportive community. 

Through The Runway, Lekoko provides resources on financial literacy and mental health, ensuring students are well-equipped for success. “By the time the students  return, they may be average at best, and that’s for those who even finish their studies,” she says.

Another issue Lekoko aims to address is the lack of, or limited, return on investment that the Botswana government receives from sending students abroad. 

“There is a significant amount of money invested in this, but it is not monitored, and we do not truly know what the return on that investment is,” she explains.

In her quest to promote information sharing on social welfare and mental health among the youth, Lekoko also serves as the Regional Coordinator for Next Step Connections, an organization that connects students with virtual internship opportunities with companies in other countries, enabling them to gain remote experience.

“It has been a bit slow because the concept of virtual internships is still new to many Batswana. However, I believe these opportunities broaden the horizons of young Batswana, helping them understand what else is out there,” she adds.

Lekoko believes these internships expose students to different work ethics and diverse job opportunities that are beneficial for their development. 

“It enhances and expands their career prospects. Some even go on to secure employment with those organizations after graduating,” she articulates.

In 2022, she founded Zaidi Consulting, specialising in Data Analytics and Business Intelligence, providing skills training and advisory services to young professionals. Lekoko sees Botswana as a land of opportunity where her skills can drive economic transformation.

 “With Zaidi Consulting, I felt a bit out of my depth when I first started. Then I thought, what extra thing would I be doing that I hadn’t already been doing? So, I launched this business after my mother persistently urged me to find a job,” she says with a touch of humor.

Building on her academic background and experience from an internship with Deloitte, Lekoko has gained substantial expertise in Data Analytics, despite being an Actuarial Science graduate.

She maintains that  home is where her heart is. Despite the common fear among young professionals of returning home after studying abroad, Lekoko has embraced her choice to come back to Botswana. “I found Botswana to be welcoming and supportive of young minds looking to make a difference,” she notes. 

“Many people ask me why I came back. They say, ‘Why return when you could be doing so well abroad?’ I always respond, ‘I would rather succeed at home first before venturing out.’ I believe that Botswana is fertile ground for young professionals to establish their careers. As a citizen, it’s much easier to grow here,” she says.

Unlike many young people who dream about opportunities in the United States or the United Kingdom, Lekoko is patriotic and convinced that citizens from neighbouring countries see Botswana as a fertile business, leading to an influx of people looking to establish business here. Lekoko's business venture involves raising layers with 500 chickens, and he has secured markets withbSquare mart and other well known retailers, although she is actively seeking to expand her market presence. 

Her entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with her academic accomplishment and industry experience, positions her as a catalyst for change within her community. As she continues to defy expectations, Pako Pearl Lekoko stands as a testament to the power of ambition, resilience and the unwavering support of famil. ENDS

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