Oampata Leroy-Mosepidi�s impressive answer to a question about maintaining peace when parenting a stepchild has earned her this year�s Mrs. Botswana crown.

�When two people are joined in holy matrimony, they must accept everything the other partner brings. Find amicable ways to raise the child with love and provide the best care to give the stepchild a sense of belonging,� Leroy-Mosepidi responded to the judges, who were impressed and ultimately crowned her queen in Gaborone on Saturday.

Gosego Jameson and Keitumetse Molefe were named first and second princesses, respectively, in a competition featuring eight married women.

Leroy-Mosepidi demonstrated her qualifications for the pageant not only through her beauty but also her intellect. Her expressive response was complemented by a stunning costume: a leather dress adorned with strings of beans and a headpiece made from cow horns.

�This outfit is a reminder that agriculture has always been the backbone of communities and still holds much potential,� she said in an interview. She encouraged other women to take advantage of new programs like Thuo Letlotlo and Temo Letlotlo.

Leroy-Mosepidi has also launched a holistic gender-based violence project called Letsibogo, aimed at giving hope to youth from compromised backgrounds. �Letsibogo means a shallow path in a stream that allows people to cross. The project emphasizes education, entrepreneurship, and leadership,� she explained.

Additionally, Leroy-Mosepidi received awards for best dressed, best national costume, and best personality.

Kgalalelo Lesetedi, founder and director of the Mrs. Botswana brand, stated that the pageant aims to promote healthy family relations, child protection, and opportunities for married women to shine and excel despite their challenges as wives and mothers.