Growing up in Selebi-Phikwe, one of Botswana’s prominent mining towns, Bonolo Molefe was exposed to the mining industry from a young age. While many simply accepted the presence of mines as part of everyday life, she found herself asking deeper questions that would eventually shape her future. She recalls being curious in primary school about whether women worked underground, only to be told that they did not. That response sparked something in her not discouragement, but curiosity about what kind of woman it would take to succeed in such a male-dominated environment. Over time, this curiosity developed into determination, fuelled by a desire to challenge limitations, prove herself, and thrive in a space where women were underrepresented.
After completing her diploma studies at the University of Botswana, Bonolo sought a different academic environment that would push her further and broaden her perspective. She found that opportunity at the Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST), an institution whose vision of “Driving Change” resonated deeply with her ambitions. At the time, BIUST was still a relatively new university, and she was drawn to the idea of being part of building something from the ground up while pursuing academic excellence. Her experience at BIUST proved to be transformative in every sense. The close-knit environment created opportunities for meaningful interaction between students and lecturers, fostering both academic and personal growth. Beyond the classroom, she formed lifelong friendships and developed a strong sense of community that encouraged her to step outside her comfort zone and embrace leadership opportunities.
One of the most defining experiences of her time at BIUST was serving as a Minister in the Student Representative Council (SRC). Being elected by her fellow students was both humbling and empowering, and it taught her that leadership is not about position, but about trust, responsibility, and service to others. This experience significantly shaped her confidence, communication skills, and ability to represent others, qualities that would later prove essential in her professional journey. She also acknowledges the impact of mentors and lecturers who guided her during her studies, including Dr. Itumeleng Seitshiro, the late Feledi Koziba, Karabo Ngwanaamotho, and Dr. Bonny Matshediso, as well as the strong friendships that continue to serve as a professional and personal support network today.
After graduating, Bonolo’s career journey took her through engineering geology and construction before she eventually transitioned into mining, a field she had always aspired to enter. While these early roles were not initially part of her long-term plan, she now views them as essential building blocks that shaped her professional identity. Her experience in construction provided valuable exposure to project execution, stakeholder engagement, and quality delivery, while also teaching her important life principles such as punctuality, integrity, and the importance of continuous learning. Looking back, she believes that every stage of her journey played a purposeful role in preparing her for the responsibilities she holds today, even if that was not immediately clear at the time.
As a young woman working in the mining industry, Bonolo has also had to navigate stereotypes and challenges associated with a traditionally male-dominated field. Early in her career, she realised that while she could not control the assumptions others made about her, she could control how she presented herself and the standard of work she delivered. This mindset became central to her approach: allowing competence, consistency, and professionalism to define her rather than perceptions or bias. For her, it is not simply about equality in principle, but about ensuring fair representation and equal opportunity for women in the industry. Through her work, she has also become conscious of her role in shaping perceptions for the women who will follow her, reinforcing the importance of resilience and excellence in everything she does.
When reflecting on her proudest achievement, Bonolo does not point to a single title or milestone. Instead, she highlights her ability to continuously adapt, learn, and figure things out in every role she has occupied. For her, success is not defined by a fixed destination, but by the courage to grow through unfamiliar challenges and the willingness to step outside her comfort zone. Each new responsibility has required her to develop new skills, and she takes pride in her ability to rise to those challenges. She believes her journey demonstrates that growth is not always linear, and that with determination and the right mindset, it is possible to create opportunities even in difficult circumstances.
Her time at BIUST continues to play a significant role in her professional life today. The technical foundation she gained at the University has supported her career progression, while the “Driving Change” philosophy continues to inspire her to challenge the status quo and seek better ways of doing things. Just as importantly, the network she built at BIUST remains invaluable, with friendships and professional connections opening doors to opportunities, mentorship, and support across industries. She notes that BIUST graduates are now present across mining, ICT, energy, and other sectors, forming a strong community that actively supports one another.
For young engineers and geoscientists entering the workforce, Bonolo emphasizes the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and openness to opportunities that may not always align with initial expectations. She encourages students and graduates to remain curious and resilient, noting that career growth often comes from unexpected paths. In today’s evolving job market, she believes employers increasingly value individuals who can adapt, learn quickly, and contribute meaningfully in diverse contexts. She also encourages young professionals not to be limited in their thinking, but to develop multiple skills and perspectives that allow them to operate across different areas of the value chain.
To current and prospective BIUST students, her message is one of encouragement, purpose, and faith in the process. She urges them to embrace every opportunity to learn, build meaningful relationships, and serve wherever they are placed. She reminds them that the people they study alongside today may one day open doors for them in ways they cannot yet imagine. Above all, she encourages them not to underestimate the value of small beginnings or difficult seasons, as every experience plays a role in shaping their future. Drawing from her personal philosophy, she emphasizes the importance of staying committed to growth, believing in oneself, and never stopping the pursuit of excellence.