ITSOSENG BALEKANE Berry Heart calls out industry peers for lack of support for one another
Fashion Designer Berry Heart Calls Out Creative Industry for Lack of Support Following Tshepang Mogale’s Tragic Death
The untimely and brutal death of social media influencer Tshepang Mogale sent shockwaves across Botswana two months ago with many citizens calling for a fund to be set up to assist her family, but it turns out that those even closer to her in the creatives industry kept their distance from the noble gesture.
This came to light this week when renowned artiste Keotshepile Motsewabeng, popularly known as Berry Heart, took to social media to announce that the fund raising initiative had made P12 900 and that the money had been handed to Mogale’s parents. Despite the generous contributions from Batswana, Berry Heart, who served as treasurer for the initiative, lamented the absence of support from Mogale’s peers in the creative industry.
She wrote:
“While I celebrate the contributions of many, I must express disappointment in the lack of support from Tshepang’s fellow creatives. Despite knowing the financial accessibility of the contributions, many of her peers did not step forward to assist.”
Berry Heart came short of accusing local industry players of hypocrisy, saying: “As creatives, we often advocate for support and solidarity when it comes to our own causes. However, this instance has highlighted a need for introspection and change. Supporting each other should be a norm, not an exception, especially in times of loss and need. It is my hope that this is a lesson we can all learn and unlearn behaviors that do not foster unity and mutual aid within our industry.”
Mogale, who was brutally stabbed multiple times, succumbed to her injuries in October. Her decomposed body was discovered in her kitchen, leading to a nationwide outpouring of grief. The Botswana Police Service (BPS) confirmed that Mogale suffered fatal stab wounds to her head, chest, heart, and abdomen.
Read the details of Tshepang Mogale’ death and burial here
Berry Heart’s post attracted a mixture of emotions with some happy for her to have led the initiative with aplomb, while other came down on local creatives like a tonne of bricks. The widely shared post had comments littered all over social media with some saying they were not surprised fellow industry players kept their distance.
“Mo Botswana re beraka ka mona. People pretend to care about each other when all goes well. When things go south, it’ every man for himself. Shame on you local creatives for your reported failure to contribute,” one user wrote.
Another said: “Good job Berries. Mmeng it’s not nice go utlwana ka monate ere go nna botata a bo go ikgogelwa ko morago”
“Owai, our local artists ke modumo fela. They lack compassion,” another added.
Others of course said they were not even aware of the fund raising initiatives wit some even promising to contribute nonetheless.
THE FULL STATEMENT BY BERRY HEART
“REPORT ON CONTRIBUTIONS FOR THE LATE TSHEPANG MOGALE
It is with deep gratitude and a heavy heart that I present this report on the contributions made in honor of my late friend, Tshepang Mogale, who passed away in October.
As the treasurer, I am pleased to announce that we successfully raised P12,900, which I handed over to her parents yesterday. This amount represents the love and solidarity shown by many Batswana both within Botswana and in the diaspora, who came together to honor Tshepang’s memory and support her family during this difficult time. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed, no matter how small or large the amount, starting from just P20. Your kindness and compassion have not gone unnoticed, and it is a testament to the unity and generosity of our community.
Disappointment in Lack of Support from Fellow Creatives:
While I celebrate the contributions of many, I must express disappointment in the lack of support from Tshepang’s fellow creatives. Despite knowing the financial accessibility of the contributions, many of her peers did not step forward to assist.
As creatives, we often advocate for support and solidarity when it comes to our own causes. However, this instance has highlighted a need for introspection and change. Supporting each other should be a norm, not an exception, especially in times of loss and need. It is my hope that this is a lesson we can all learn and unlearn behaviors that do not foster unity and mutual aid within our industry.
Once again, I thank everyone who contributed to this initiative. Your generosity has made a difference, and I know Tshepang’s family deeply appreciates your kindness. May we continue to support one another and build stronger bonds of community and care.
Rest in Peace, Tshepang Mogale.
Thank you.
Dr. Keotshepile Motseonageng”
