Starting the new year with a bang, DDS have once again selected a student to sponsor through their ‘Leaders for the Future’ scholarship program.

In a partnership with the Botswana Accountancy College (BAC), the program selects one recipient from the region and sponsors their education through either a Bachelor of Arts in Tourism Management or a Bachelor of Arts in International Management – both of which have a bridging course and 3 years of study after.

This year’s candidate, Segomotso Maria, is a 29-year-old who hails from Maun. Although she has worked as a Special Constable at the Botswana Police Service and in customer service, Segomotso has always been passionate about conservation and tourism; she saw this scholarship as an opportunity to learn about how to combat poaching and protect the environment. The DDS selection committee were impressed by this passion and selected her as the recipient.

During the press briefing, last year’s recipient, Neo Mothao was in attendance and gave advice to the Segomotso about what to expect the first year. Segomotso was really excited about receiving the scholarship and was grateful to DDS for offering such an opportunity.

Bruce Petty the general manager of DDS said this scholarship offers the kind of skills that young Batswana need in their business. He also believes that the future of tourism lies in the hands of the youth because they can bring a different perspective to management and conservation issues.

DDS has found that education is a key element to help empower the youth of Botswana. The scholarship program falls into their mandate to help people within their region. It is no surprise that DDS was shortlisted in the ‘People Award’ category in this year’s ‘Tourism for Tomorrow Awards’ hosted by the World Travel and Tourism Council.

We wish Segomotso the best of luck with her studies and look forward to watching her become one of the leaders of the future!