Dolly Masilomangwe, a 27-year-old hail from Molepolole, Botswana, is making waves both in the finance world and on the runway. A professional model and accountant, Dolly seamlessly balances her dual careers with grace and determination. With a degree in Banking and Finance, she is not only an accomplished accountant but also one of Botswana’s top models, shining brightly in runway shows and commercial modeling. Her journey is deeply rooted in her Christian faith, which serves as her foundation and guiding light.
Dolly’s modeling career began in 2017, inspired by renowned models Kaone Kario and Naomi Campbell. Her first modeling job was at the Masa Fashion Show in Botswana, where she had the opportunity to work with the esteemed Jan Malan. This experience was the springboard that propelled her into the fashion industry, and she has never looked back.
“I started my modeling journey in 2017, and it has been a thrilling ride ever since,” Dolly shares. “Working with Jan Malan at the Masa Fashion Show was a significant milestone. It was the beginning of many wonderful opportunities.”
Maintaining a radiant complexion and reducing facial puffiness are crucial for Dolly. She emphasizes the importance of regular facial cleansing and avoiding chemical products. “I go for manual massage to reduce facial puffiness and give my complexion a natural glow. It’s all about enjoying what I do and giving my maximum effort,” she says.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought significant challenges, but Dolly’s resilience shone through. For two years, the fashion industry struggled, but in 2022, she worked with African Fashion International (AFI), one of the biggest agencies in South Africa. “The pandemic was tough, but it didn’t stop me. Working with AFI in 2022 was a major highlight,” Dolly recalls.
However, the challenges of her career extend beyond the pandemic. Being hired to work in different cities or countries means making sacrifices, such as being away from family and friends and learning to fend for herself. Despite these difficulties, Dolly remains steadfast in her pursuit of excellence.
One of her most memorable experiences was winning the Best Runway Model of the Year Africa 2023 award in Ghana. “The experience was incredible. Winning that award was a dream come true,” she beams. Another unforgettable moment was participating in the Forbes Under 30 Summit in 2022, where she shared the ramp with Kaone Kario and Emma Warius.
Dolly attributes her success to her faith and disciplined lifestyle. “Always stay hydrated and eat well. Regular facial cleansing and avoiding chemical products are essential. Manual massage helps too,” she advises.
Her unique body structure, captivating eyes, and distinct facial features set her apart in the modeling industry. Despite facing criticism and rejection, Dolly remains resilient. “Criticism and rejection are daily occurrences in this career. I am always prepared to manage my emotions. I seek support from friends, family, or even a psychologist if needed,” she says.
Dolly encourages aspiring models to persist and never accept “no” as the end of their career. “Value rejection as an opportunity to pursue bigger dreams. Persistence is key,” she emphasizes.
Looking ahead, Dolly envisions a more inclusive fashion industry that represents a diverse range of body types, ages, genders, and cultures. “The industry will embrace diversity not only in marketing campaigns but also in product offerings, with more inclusive sizing and gender-neutral clothing lines,” she predicts.
Dolly aspires to take her career to the global stage, dreaming of participating in New York and Paris fashion weeks. “By the grace of the Lord, I believe I can achieve anything. The scripture says I can do all things through Christ who lives in me,” she says with a smile. “It’s a bit challenging, but I set clear boundaries between work and my modeling career.”
Dolly Masilomangwe’s journey is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and determination. As she continues to break barriers and inspire others, her story is a beacon of hope and empowerment for aspiring models everywhere.