By Mzukona Mantshontsho
DARE TO DREAM exists to unlock potential. To build a pool of talent pipeline by promoting STEAME Education and solving the needs of companies.
Dare to Dream believes every young person deserves the opportunity to dream bigger, develop skills, and access opportunities regardless of their background.
Dare to Dream doesn’t just inspire dreams – Dare to Dream helps turn them into action.
How did your upbringing lead to your journey?
I grew up believing in the village watching aeroplanes flying overhead my mothers thatched roof house believing that hard work, discipline and service matter. Those values shaped me into becoming one of Botswana’s pioneering female military pilots, and today they continue to guide my work mentoring young people and opening doors into aviation and STEM.
What is your view of success in entrepreneurship?
Success is not just about making money. It’s about solving real problems, creating opportunities for others, and building something that continues to make a positive impact long after you’re gone.
Tell us about your early life.
I developed a love for learning and leadership from a young age. I used to walk barefoot to school because I come from very humble beginnings;- My military training and aviation career taught me resilience, discipline and excellence, while continuous learning has helped me grow as an entrepreneur and social impact leader.
What does your role mean to you?
It is a calling. Every day I have the privilege of inspiring, mentoring and creating opportunities that can change the trajectory of a young person’s life.
What are the most critical resources for successful leadership?
Vision, integrity, resilience and great people. When you surround yourself with passionate people who believe in the mission, incredible things become possible.
What can we expect from you going forward?
We will continue expanding Dare To Dream across Africa, creating more opportunities in aviation, STEM, AI and entrepreneurship so that more young people can access careers they never thought were possible.
Advice for young people, especially women?
Start where you are with what you have. Don’t wait for perfect conditions. Be willing to learn, work hard, fail, adapt and keep moving forward.
What did COVID-19 teach us about business?
COVID-19 reminded us to stay adaptable. Businesses should diversify their income, embrace technology, build emergency reserves and remain innovative so they can respond quickly to future challenges.
What legacy would you like to leave?
I want to leave behind empowered young people who believe in themselves because someone believed in them first. My greatest achievement will be lives transformed, not titles earned.
How does your work directly contribute to the community?
We equip young people with skills, mentorship and career exposure in aviation, STEM and entrepreneurship, helping them become confident leaders, innovators and job creators.
What have been your highs and lows?
The biggest highlight has been seeing young people discover their purpose and achieve dreams they once thought impossible. The biggest challenge has been limited funding, resources to expand and scale our programs across Southern Africa hence we are looking for partnerships and sponsors to help Dare To Dream because we believe that by coming together pulling resources we can achieve our goals and impact more young people
What do you do when you’re not at work, and where can people follow you?
Outside work I enjoy reading, bowling; painting art; karaoke; fitness, travelling and spending time reflecting and planning new ideas.
You can follow the Dare To Dream journey on our social media platforms and connect with me on LinkedIn as we continue inspiring the next generation.
