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setabane · 3 years

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What it’s like being a Queer Motswana in 2021.

Botswana’s young queer bodies on their achievements and challenges they’ve faced during the mid-pandemic period, as well as their hopes for the future.

Words by Cassim Cassim

This new series is a retrospective of the lives of ordinary Batswana in and out of Botswana. Based off of the trials and tribulations engendered by the Corona Virus, the misfortune of the lack of vaccines in the country and the increasing pandemic of homophobia/transphobia/queerphobia, this is a highlight of the sincerity, simplicity and realism conveyed by queer Batswana.

Botswana’s queer scene has increasingly changed into something blissful and collective in the past decade. The strenuous pandemic of 2020 had forged a drift in the world and thwarted any progress, especially any queer growth within Botswana’s community. Since the Gaborone Pride in 2019, Batswana have pondered over the possible construction of a queer community one can be boastful about and celebrating our queer culture that serves as the country’s haven and an answer to queer liberation and celebration.

This is an appreciation, extended on paper, of some queer bodies who have been entrenched in the conservativeness of this country, and some thriving culturally and socially in liberal countries.

The new generation of Batswana are finding some degree of freedom to exist in such brunt and animus environments, especially in this heteropatriachy.

Here is one of the young queer Batswana sharing their challenges, wins and thoughts during the mid-pandemic season.

Shanxuan Jenny Yu, 22

She/Her, Botswana

SETABANE: How do you find the queer community where you are?

“In Botswana, I don’t really engage with the queer community per se as I only have a couple of queer friends, but I love them. They’re all such accepting, kind, intelligent and beautiful people. In Australia, again don’t interact with many, the ones I know personally are amazingly supportive but I’ve also met a few who were unwilling to try understand others’ struggles if it didn’t fit with their own narrative of being queer.”

SETABANE: What’s your favorite thing to do at the moment?

“Probably play Xbox. I’m trash but currently I mainly play tomb raider and CoD [Call of Duty]. More productive hobbies include music- playing guitar and piano but I’m also in a bit of a slump where things don’t appeal to me anymore. I like watching Netflix and YouTube to pass time.”

SETABANE: Do you have any word you live by?

“No, I don’t really think about important things lol. But if I had to pick something, maybe ‘persistence’, if you literally mean a word. If by word you meant idea, something I’ve stood by quite strongly for the past couple of years has been ‘stop pretending to give a shit about people and things you don’t actually give a shit about, it’s a waste of your time and theirs’ ” .

SETABANE: Is identity something you had to grapple with? 📷

“When I was young, I was certainly uncertain of my sexual identity as I didn’t understand the concept of attraction to the same sex as something that was possible. I had also pondered over getting a sex change for a really long time because I felt uncomfortable in my own skin and felt I should be someone else. Eventually I realised that for me, my organs and how others address me don’t matter to me all that much. I can just act however I want to and people can interpret that in whatever way they choose. It’s not something I personally consider important for me.”

SETABANE: What kind of music do you play?

“I mainly play classical pieces or metal/alternative, as well as anime stuff. If you’re asking what I play in the car or on my phone, it’s pretty similar but also includes psychedelic rock and some occasional pop and hip hop.”

SETABANE: What’s inspiring you right now?

“Nothing. I hate life and I feel incredibly uninspired. My motivation to actually get work done when I do have school though, is that since I’m alive right now I might as well do something so I can have a decent career if I’m alive later. Sometimes the thought of helping people pushes me forward (I’m going into medicine), but more so the feeling I get when I can check something off my list. I love lists.”

SETABANE: How has the pandemic affected you personally?

“It’s definitely exacerbated my loneliness. I already have very few friends, all of whom I rarely talk to- I used to see them on rare occasions but that hasn’t been possible for the past 2 years. Getting these intense panic attacks knowing no one will pick up if I call and that I’m unlikely to see anyone soon to cheer me up a little. I never felt like I could talk to anyone when I was going through stuff, but now I can’t even vent to anyone after I’ve finished going through it you know. Being around family 24/7 is disgusting, getting no breaks from each other really highlights our problems. I love having an excuse not to go out though, overall it’s been pretty fun except for the fact that I hate my family and I have no friends.”

#SETABANE

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setabane · 3 years

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UNPACKING WHAT IT MEANS TO BE QUEER AND SOCIAL MEDIA FAMOUS WITH FREDDIE PRO

The 22-year- old sensation is coming up with new ones to pursue and cultivate his talent as a rapper and navigating his way in Botswana’s creative scene as a queer person - here’s everything you need to know about Freddie Pro

Words by Cassim Cassim

Although the creative industry in Botswana still remains a question mark to many people around the country and the whole world, the country has a plethora of multi talented emerging artists and influencers. With an acclaimed single ‘Baddie’, over two hundred thousand followers on Facebook and Instagram together, Freddie Pro is one of the leading queer sensations to grace Botswana’s social media creative scene.

As his new found online presence became primarily professional, Freddie has found himself conflating relevance with his own identity and with frequent creative releases on the internet. The young influencer has seen social media’s impending capacity to make superstars of adolescents, a convenient development for an industry that has a well-documented creative and comic fetish. He has watched the site shift from earnest entertainment to a race of influence and relevance. As a feminine presenting queer person in Botswana, the scene and opinions in Botswana is somewhat ambiguous. Batswana do not take lightly to queer feminine presenting people in the streets but that never hindered Freddie’s flamboyancy to flourish and propel his true character to people he meets on a daily.

He has become an internet sensation, inspiring young queer people to step forward in the social scenes and constructing a rather national phenomenon that collects young queer people to fully express themselves however they please. While corona virus ravages Botswana in record breaking number of cases, Freddie’s tongue in cheek attitude always entertains the masses on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, either with his comic or breathtaking renditions of Nicki Minaj, otherwise known as Chun-Li, Harajuku Barbie, Roman Lewinsky, he is a true barb who doesn’t shy away for his love of her. Or he prepels his rapping talents with his original songs such as Baddie or Onika, Freddie Pro proves to be glossy respected name in Botswana’s creative scene.

SETABANE had the privilege meet and talk to Freddie Pro about his social media stardom and what that means to him.

When did you start making videos on Facebook and started getting attention?

Freddie Pro: If I remember quite well I started receiving attention around 2012 when I realized that I can rap like Nick Minaj.

“Nicki Minaj’s talent is on another level” So discovering that I make good impersonation of her made me even love her music and her raps. I began to follow her more often, reciting her award speech and making impressions of those speeches infront of the Camera and shared on social media and the people where so shocked and impressed.

Getting a positive responses from people telling me how much they enjoy what I do made me to become over obsessed with the woman, From her looks, music, rhymes, accent, flows and yes, you can say everything about the woman.”

Your audience has been with you since you were a tween. What was it like to introduce music to them?

“Of course my audience has been with me from a very young age when I started making videos, impersonation and song covers.

When I started now introducing them to my new self that I can now write my own raps and make my own sound, for me it was nerve wrecking because I already knew and predicted the kind of response that i was going to get on my own craft that I still Sound like Nicki Miaj. Moreover I could say the response from people on my music is so pleasing and exciting because a lot of them really enjoy the music and even encourage me to even do more..”

Do you feel the pressure to be the ‘new’ thing or have the big debut?

“Yes of course I do feel the pressure to be the new thing. The people expect more of what you have been used to do in the past. The fans expect a better version of me every-time I put out something, the expect quality and perfection. The industry itself (media, radios and other artists ) could literally make it hard for me as a new artist and blocking my shine and not acknowledging the work that I put in hence my work will just circulate only on the audience that I have. So I really rely on my audience and fans to take my work out there which is really working and I also rely on the fact that my talent will speak for itself nor matter what. The fans are not stupid if you are talented they’ll support talent because they see it hence I believe I’m still relevant now even in the future.”

How has being queer and in the spotlight affected your personal life?

“Being queer in the spotlight has really made me develop some virtues that I never even had before. I’m patient now, I take my time to perfect my work and of course I don’t always put myself under a lot of pressure just because I have to create content

So I’m so patient with myself, I don’t rush thing i take my time to perfect any project I’d love to share with the people. It really made me be more interactive.”

What is one thing your fans need to know about you?

“I am a genuine, loving, caring and a fun person to be around

I’d love them to always reach out to me with no fear or hesitation because I’m very accommodating at all times.”

Credits

Words by: @cxsside

Director of Photography: @wenz_hd

Assistant Director: @unearthlygofaone

Stylist: @rorisang_lu

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setabane · 3 years

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The Shifting Landscape of Gender Dysphoria and Euphoria In Botswana

A project based on the meaning behind Gender Dysphoria and Gender Euphoria in Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming People.

Words by Cassim Cassim

Gender Dysphoria- a noun that describes the distress a person experiences as a result of the disconnect between their internal gender identity and the sex/gender they were assigned at birth.

While Gender Euphoria is the positive homologue of gender dysphoria. Transgender and Gender Non-confirming people are celebrated respectfully in world wide media, however, it hasn’t always been like that, and since we’re ten steps behind first world countries, there’s a clear and crippling erasure of people who belong in the trans/gender non-confirming community. It is a complex reality living as a trans body in Botswana, a rather stigmatized and brutally condemned experience. I, on one hand being a trans non-binary individual, have experienced a fair shake of blatant transphobia and as thought coming to terms with ones gender identity is liberating and rather benefic to ones existence, it is excruciating malefic in the eyes of Botswana’s conservatism. However there’s a long way to go in order to dismantle Botswana’s rigid gender confines.

The path to self-actualisation is never easy, arduous and emotionally challenging, however, trans individuals can uncover a luminous part of them that feels euphoric. A lot of people, including myself, experiment with expression, presentation and self-conception in order to navigate through what feels good and what doesn’t in order to relish the idea of what your gender identity is. Being transgender and gender non-conforming in Botswana is an endurance test, and the worst thing about being genderqueer is that there are other people’s opinions and ignorance to suffocate you. Existing in the confines of an increasingly hostile and complex society as a marginalized community is a game of transphobia thrown at you disguised as conservatism or blatant ignorance.

It is quite significant to know that the younger generation are becoming well aware of the gender spectrum, it is more pertinent that Botswana needs to learn more about trans individuals. This week being Non-Binary Awareness week, SETABANE has the privilege of interviewing Transgender Gender Non-Conforming Person Vesta, narrating her experiences with being trans in Botswana and experiencing gender euphoria and dysphoria.

1.What is your name and gender identity?

Vesta: She/Her and They/Them

2. What was it like documenting your queerness as an openly trans body?

Vesta: I had a lot of fun doing the shoots because I was around other queer people. I think the only worry I had was me being dysphoric no matter how good the shots were.

3. What does gender dysphoria and euphoria mean to you?

Vesta: Euphoria is peace of mind and end to a dull gnawing feeling. Dysphoria can sometimes mean safety with great pain. Having to hide who I am can be rather triggering.

4. What does that feeling feel like to you?

Vesta: when I'm dysphoric it feels like I'm drowning there's this deep sense of dissociation. Being euphoric feels like I'm taking in air after a deep dive.

5. What are your experiences with being trans person in Botswana like?

Vesta: I must open the answering of this question and acknowledge that I do carry some privilege even though I am mixed race I am white passing to some extent. It should also be note that I can at times 'pass' meaning to be perceived as the gender I identify as. Even so I have been cat called harassed and then had rude remarks shouted at me if I get clocked. I have noticed that the more feminine I presented the more I have gotten harassed. I've had men flirt with me and constantly worry for my safety. I've had guards at [University of Botswana] wait for me to fill in the gender section only so they could laugh at me. I think some people get a little shocked when I tell them that I've dated and still do date women. It seems a common perception is that all transwomen are just the idea of Gay men taken to the extreme. When in fact gender and sexuality are two different things.

Credits:

Project Managers: @folla.dora

Photographers: @wenz_hd @archhanngel @preach.sosa

Model: @vesta.grey

Edited by: @sekatixo @avntgod

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setabane · 3 years

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THE UPCOMING QUEER PHOTOGRAPER CAPTURING QUEER BEAUTY THROUGH CINEMATICS AND FILM

The Motswana based Photographer and Setabane Magazine’s Director of Photography’s work that was featured on Vogue Italia and i-D Magazine takes us into his world of creativity. By Cassim Cassim

Wenzile Dube is an upcoming photographer taking on the frontlines of creative photography in Botswana. Born in Zimbabwe and raised in Botswana, Wenzile’s coming of age journey gifted him with the ability to cultivate the nuances of reality and fantasy. His ability to merge reality with cinematography as his aesthetic melded with the themes of soft and subtle films convincingly reminding you of old Italian and French coming of age indie movies. Dube, personally working with him, often creates an atmosphere of seamlessness and softness, alluding to a convincingly romantic and dramatic genre.

A portfolio filled with surreal and ethereal exploration of human emotion and movement, he brings immaculate and tasteful art, offering a clean, elegant and rather mellow approach to imagery. He usually morphs his zine from smooth and airy to crispy and dark while still maintaining his aesthetic. Dube works in an unusual and intriguing way, he scouts sites where he can shoot while taking random drives around the city, like searching for a haven. Even as run down and shady an area might be, he often transforms that eeriness into a rather halcyon and serene environment that would translate through his work.

Dissecting his work, the models are oftentimes dappled with melancholy or in soft afternoon ambered sunlight often with a sense of intimate reverie. His work emanates raw energy with his photographs transforming the film context into an earthy and tranquilly charged meticulous art with prominent soft brown, grey and white tones. Being one of the first Botswana based photographers to be featured in prestigious magazines such as Vogue Italia and i-D magazine, Dube’s violent surreal imagery and mysticism is in fact a trait not many have and that makes him stand out and would take him further into the creative industry. Setabane took the liberty to contact him and interview him about his work and passions.

Tell us about yourself, where you live and what you’re passionate about?

My name is Wenzile Harley Dube, I'm a portrait photographer born in Zimbabwe (1999) but I've lived in Botswana my whole life. I'm quite reserved and enjoy spending time alone. I consider myself a jack of all trades but my true passion is Photography.

How did you get your start taking photographs and what drew you to photography?

I've been taking photographs with the family camera from the beginning of highschool but I only started taking it seriously from the beginning of my A-levels. I won a Photography contest held by my highschool for World Sparrow Day and that's when the aspect of presenting my images to an audience drew me closer to Photography. I set up my Instagram account soon after that.

What personal realisations have you come to photographing people you have so far met?

On my Photography journey so far with portrait Photography I've come to notice how character/personality shifts when someone is in front of my lens, sometimes to reveal their true selves and at other times to mask it. Always an interesting thing to witness especially when I'm shooting with people I've known for quite some time. It's made me realise instances when I'm not truly being myself and try to reduce the occurrence of those instances.

What do you look for when you are planning for a photography campaign?

When planning for a shoot I try to gather songs and movies that match the mood I'm going for and play those in the background whilst I draw up ideas in my sketchpad.

What do you think the role of a photographer is, or the power of a photograph in this world saturated with imagery?

The role of the Photographer in my opinion is to observe and capture/document life and stories as they present themselves to you but to never intrude. When you stop to intrude/pose you subconsciously or consciously create imagery that has existed before. This is something that I'm working on moving away from too.

Where do you gather up creative inspiration from and who do you usually look up to?

I gather inspiration from movies and songs.

How has the photography/creative scene been like in Botswana?

The creative scene in Botswana is intriguing because in comparison to other countries I feel like it's relatively new. It's both exciting and terrifying because in most cases there's no blueprint to follow or guide you, this generation of creatives in Botswana is creating the blueprint.

wenzileharveydube.com

#wenzileharveydube setabane

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setabane · 3 years

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Tales of a Trans-Woman

By: Keletso Kelatlhegile

Growing up in places full of men filled with high-toxic masculinity and religious women, makes it hard for queer bodies to fully express their identities. Queer individuals, especially Trans-bodies and femmes endure so much pain, just for them to exist and be themselves. Despite all of that, Thapelo remains beautiful and authentic to herself as a trans-woman.

As someone who lived a very authentic life, we at SETABANE sat down with Thapelo to get a more intimate look into her life story. She took us on a journey, and reminded us of how much queer bodies go through just to exist.

SETABANE: Kindly introduce yourself, tell us where you grew up and how was it for you?

Thapelo: “My name is Thapelo Matshameko, and I was born in Mahalapye. I am a trans-woman. I, have always been this person. Growing up I enjoyed playing with girls and wearing “female clothes”. It was never a problem for me because that was me and I enjoyed it.”

SETABANE: what was it like coming out to your parents & friends and how has it been since?

Thapelo: “I never had to come out to my parents. My mom always knew that I was like this and she accepted me for me. As for my father, he always thought I was gonna change as I grew up, I didn’t. It took him a long time to come to terms with my identity, but, I’m glad to say that right now he accepts me, and tells people that I have always been like this,” she said with a smile. “When I meet people, I always teach them about me. I think it’s very important. Even at work, I had to sit them down and tell them about myself, and help them understand certain things and help create a safe space for me.”

SETABANE: Recognizing the discrimination & bullying you went and continue to go through daily, how do you manage to remain beautiful and authentic to yourself?

Thapelo: “I remember that time in 2018 when I was bullied online, people were calling me names and throwing transphobic slurs at me. It didn’t break me because I know myself and I love myself. I always put myself first. I’m not going to change or hide my identity because of what people think of me, but right now, is not like before. It’s like people know about me! And have accepted me for me!

SETABANE: Any advice you have for an 18 year old trans-individual?

Thapelo: “Be yourself! You should not shy away from being who you are. Appreciate and love who you are, and the world will catch up. Do not be changed by people. Live your life, and stay true to your Identity. “

Credits:

Photography: Giancarlo LaGuerta

Art Direction: Keletso Kelatlhegile

Model: Thapelo Matshameko

Make Up: Bonang Mokgethi

Production Assistant: Mompoloki Stanley

Jewelry: Jade Ridge

#pridemonth

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setabane · 3 years

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The Pride Issue

By: Cassim Cassim

For the past 2 years we haven't had the means or reasons to extravagantly celebrate anything due to the Corona Virus, or as the queers like to say it, ‘Miss Coco’. Besides the vexing and the scourging virus, queer people have been facing multiple extremities. South African queer people are under siege as killings have increased, 44 Ugandans have been wrongfully arrested during the first day of pride month. However fear breeds bravery and activism, this month we advocate and celebrate the lives of queer people and their bravery for existing. The past 2 years hasn’t been the biggest parade for anyone especially queer folks, but coming out to celebrate our identities and our communities is a breeze and a step forward to building us up again and the youth have inspired a lot with their dynamism and resilience, coming together and constructing a better bone for the community in Botswana. To celebrate pride season and the beatitude of self expression, identity and the exploration of intersectional identity beyond society's fetishisation of marginalised subcultures. Today we speak with two daring personalities that have produced the best works socially and have constructed a self image that inspires many others to celebrate themselves.

(Setabane) Introduce yourself to our readers and what you do?

(Leloba) My name is Leloba, I'm a student right now enrolled in a bachelor of science course.

(S) What does Pride mean to you and how do you plan on celebrating it?

(L) Pride is a celebration of all the possibilities of human love to me. As I grew up I realised there was more than one form of intimacy and that was kind of a fun but difficult thing to explore for myself. When I think of Pride it's like the celebration at the end of that journey? Or even a celebration of the courage it takes to go on that journey in the first place. It takes a lot of courage to seek out intimacy.I currently don't have any plans to celebrate pride at the moment, but being a part of this shoot felt like a little celebration of sexuality and gender fluidity.

(S) How would you advise other people to celebrate their authentic selves?

(L) My advice to people trying to celebrate their authentic selves would be do whatever you want man (as long as you're not hurting yourself or others). Maybe do something you've always wanted to do but have always felt too nervous to do it? Or even just do something classically you. Something you know brings you comfort and that you can enjoy on your own. Sit outside in the sun and remember that you're alive! Anything, just do you.

(S) How does modeling contribute to your self-identity and expression?

(L) I don't model often but when I do it's a chance to see myself from another view? I struggle with identity and self-love, so doing shoots is a way to combat those feelings sometimes? Seeing the finished product and being impressed with myself, or even still thinking I'm not model-esque or pretty or anything, those are important thoughts to keep track of too. So yeah, shoots are a chance for me to be vulnerable, as well as be a part of someone else's artistic expression. I love making art and being a part of art.

(S) What are the best things about being queer and in Botswana?

(L) Being bisexual in Botswana can be rough but it's also a lot more easygoing than other places in the world I'm sure. It's been awesome seeing queer culture really catch on with the younger generations. I know it would have been easier for me to find myself of queer culture and gender fluidity was more accepted when I was in my earlier years in high school, but yeah it has really caught in and its awesome to see.

Botswana is reaching the idea of queer in some places but not all.

(S) Pride is about awareness, about liberty and togetherness, do you think Botswana is reaching the idea of queer Batswana?

(L) Again the youth are really spearheading the movement I think, but there's still some resistance to change amongst the older generation. I think rights are still and issue for the non-hetero community, but even within that community like, no abortion, really? Botswana is pretty backwards in many ways and I believe there is still more to be done for the "idea of queer".

(S) Introduce yourself to our readers and what you do?

(Koketso) Koketso Richer is a 21 year old full time entrepreneur, part time stylist, social media enthusiast, plant lover and openly pansexual Motswana man who enjoys challenging existing societal ethics through fashion and style.

(S) What does Pride mean to you and how do you plan on celebrating it?

(K) For years, we as the LGBTQ+ society have been fighting an endless fight for acceptance by society. My predecessors have fought tooth and nail for the end of homophobia and transphobia, my community has been faced with a lot of challenges from HIV/AIDS to the killings and massacres of our brothers and sisters out of hate. To me pride means celebrating the people who came before I did. Pride means taking up space and demanding the respect and acceptance that we so deserve and letting it be known that we exist and we are here to take up space.

(S) How would you advise other people to celebrate their authentic selves?

(K) Personally I feel like people deal with issues of sexuality differently, my only advice would be to take as much time as you need to learn and explore yourself, you do not necessarily need to come out to anyone nor explain yoursexuality to anyone and just do whaever it is that feels right to you as an individual.

(S) How have fashion and image-making allowed you to express and explore your identity?

(K) My fashion and my style has in so many ways made it easy for me to take up space and have a seat at the table. The acceptance and appreciation from other creators and people on social media inspired me to be bold. I’ve found myself surrounded by open minded people who make me feel normal thus I no longer feel like an outcast.

(S) What are the best things about being queer and in Botswana?

(K) I honestly wish I had a list of things to say I love about being queer in Botswana, sadly that is not the case. We still have a long way to go in making sure that we get our appreciation, nonetheless I cannot undermine the efforts of organisations like LEGABIBO that have been fighting tirelessly for our rights. We have a long way to go but the difference I am seeing is promising.

This year, we stand to co-opt queer symbolism in social media to demonstrate and advocate the importance of queer visibility and to eradicate queer erasure in our country. Following the momentous case and enactment of the decriminalization of consensual same sex on 3 years ago. The rulling has affected queer people in Botswana differently. The community now needs to stand in solidarity to enact same-sex marriage, idenitfying other genders and so forth. This Pride is a call for action, a reclamation of the queer symbols that will unite the LGBTQ+ community. Albeit the coronavirus, Social Media is a powerful tool, a tool that can unite us all. Happy Pride Month Batswana! CREDITS: Photography: @wenz_hd Models: @thedesertexperiment @koketso_richter Editor: @cxsside Stylist: @archhanngel

#pride2021

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setabane · 3 years

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The Beauty of Queer Intimacy and Love: The Dynamics of Femme Women loving Women (WLW) Relationships

This captivating series maneuvers around the beauty of everyday queer life and the documentation of queer love (platonic, romantic and of-self). A dialogue that contains a cinematography-focused visual aesthetic on tender and gentle moments with main inspirations from Clifford Prince King, Ryan McGinley and Ryan Pfluger.

Words: Cassim Cassim

There is a heavy stigmatism behind the word femme in its essence, especially when you coalesce and meld it with being queer. There is a shift in conflict whenever you are a queer femme identifying person, a shift that diverts hate and prejudice from the cis hetero community to the queer community. In the gay community, there is creation of internalized homophobia, which is known as femphobia, femme presenting queer men have been historically ostracized and ridiculed for presenting too girly or too feminine. Whereas in the lesbian community, there is an ambiguous reaction and opinion towards femme presenting queer women. There is a heavy dig into the existence of queer women, especially queer femme women who love other women.

Queer femme women must face a challenge amongst the heterosexual agenda and feeding into an idea that they must feed themselves into compulsory and performative ‘bisexuality’ all to praise the needs of men. Usually, women who are in femme relationships fall prey to this cage of men belittling their relationships by sexualizing them and praising their union because it is “sexy”, but God forbid a relationship between a butch queer woman and a femme queer woman, sensuality between them becomes “sick” and “cruel”. It widens the range of behavior considered acceptable from men in heterosexual intercourse, behavior which reiteratively strips women of their autonomy, dignity, and sexual potential, including the potential of loving and being loved by women in mutuality and integrity.

Femme to femme relationships in women are part of the forefront yet have never been seen as a redefinition of a generational idea of what queer love looks like. Without denigrating the idea that a wlw queer relationship is between butch and femme, it assumably feeds into the base idea that it belongs into a system of gender, the man and the woman, the provider and the receiver, simply because both expressions are dichotomic. It is rather cathartic knowing that now we don’t have a prominent base idea of what a queer relationship looks like or should look like, and that’s what makes queer relationships unique and splendiferous. This last article in the last series is to highlight the beauty of queer relationships, in all forms, and the subversion of the patriarchy by painting a soft and delegate form of femininity and queer intimacy between 2 femme women. SETABANE had an interview with 2 queer femme presenting woman discussing their idea of intimacy between women and their experiences with love and intimacy.

1. What is your definition of intimacy?

(J) My definition of intimacy is where me and my partner are together and we’re both tapping into each other’s emotional and mental inclination/state. It could be through just a casual conversation maybe about how your day really was or a deep conversation about the things you want for yourself or for the both of us. Allowing your partner to get in touch with your emotional being is the most intimate you can ever be with him/her (in my opinion). With physical intimacy, it’s more to do with being so comfortable with each other’s presence, their touch, having a good time and not involving sex. The latter on the other hand isn’t my way of showing intimacy.

(C) Intimacy to me is defined as the complete acceptance of oneself and of other people. It’s being comfortable in my body and my spirit to share a bond with most importantly myself and then another person.

2. What is your idea of romanticism?

(J) It’s definitely doing something, could be small or big, for my partner and not expecting anything in return, just making my partner feel so special. I could be doing whatever it is I’m doing out of love or admiration or for the fun of it. It also keeps the relationship alive, just little surprises here and there. Affirming your partner all the time counts too, as well as giving them your time, doing things out of the ordinary, basically being spontaneous.

(C) Being aware of my own wants and needs and/or as well as my partners. Words or actions based off this form the base of the romantic aspect in any relationship.

3. What’s one thing you love about being queer?

(J) I’d like to think it’s how I learn something all the time about being queer and the queer community. There’s so much to being queer that it just blows my mind sometimes. Anything thing is the support that comes from the queer community. It’s so overwhelming in a good way. It’s just incredible to see it and feel it.

(C) The ability to be my most authentic self. The community as well. There is an abundance of love and generosity. We all share a commonality yet embrace individualism to the fullest.

4. Is queer expression important to you?

(J) For me, I really do not think too much about how I express myself physically that is. I absolutely adore when queer people express themselves wholeheartedly that’s for sure, but for me, it never really wasn’t that important.

(C) Queer expression is vital. Without it, embracing one's true self cannot happen. Being queer takes up a portion of who the person is, if it cannot be tapped into and explored by physical means, it is left untouched and dormant.

5. Do you feel prejudice/discrimination as a queer woman in Botswana?

(J) I personally haven’t really experienced/received that kind of energy from people, so I don’t think so. But for my fellow queer people, I’d like to think some have, especially trans, gay and bisexual men. They have it the hardest and it’s hard to witness that.

6. Do you believe in queer platonic love?

(J) Yeah, absolutely.

(C) Absolutely. Again, it’s the community. Friends come to be from sharing experiences and opinions, while accepting each other regardless of any differences. I don’t see why that cannot be for queer friendships. It can be one of the greatest friendships to ever have as a queer person.

7. What’s one advice you’d give to someone reading this?

(J) Don’t live up to people’s expectations of you. Live up to your expectations of you. Don’t be concerned about what other people think of you. Don’t focus on trying to prove to people your validation. And be kind, always. We live in such a cruel world and you can make it better by just being kind to the people around you.

(C) Study yourself. Expand your mind. Have some substance. We live in a world where distractions occupy our lives. But we weren’t put on this planet to become machines. Don’t lose your humanity, it’s the most beautiful thing you own. CREDITS:

PHOTOGRAPHY : @wenz_hd

EDITOR: @cxsside

MODELS: @jdee_ridge and @clarisapriyanka

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setabane · 3 years

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The Beauty of Queer Intimacy and Love: Relationships outside the Binary

Words: Cassim Cassim

The next story in this ongoing series is a celebration of the wonder and potential of trans bodies to push at boundaries of how society views gender, sexuality and relationships.

Empowering and necessary, this amateur homemade shows the beauty of how trans and gender non-confirming people deserve to feel brave, beautiful, loved and sexy.

The dating dynamic in our society is largely focused on cis-heteronormative society, which produces a distinct erasure of the experiences that nonbinary people face romantically. There is no narrative created where trans and non-binary, including people within the grey sexual community, that shows that they experience basic intimate relationships and romance. ‘Whether it's dating apps that lack appropriate gender options, transphobic partners who don't validate your identity, or mis-gendering based on appearance, there can be a lot of obstacles for nonbinary people who aren't recognized by cisgender people.’

This series documents how authentic and beautiful a relationship is with a non-binary person. Setabane had the luxury of speaking to Pixie and Junior about their everyday lives in Botswana as a queer couple.

1. What is your idea of intimacy?

(P) My idea of intimacy is being able to cuddle on even the hottest of days, watching shows together while eating our favourite comfort food, having tea or coffee together, sharing whatever snack the other is eating and downloading and playing games together. Discovering things and showing each other funny tweets or Instagram videos. Intimacy to me is the little things we do when we're spending time together because we're in our little bubble and just being.

(J) Intimacy for me is rewatching your favourite shows or movies whenever you’re at wits end with not knowing what to watch, knowing what the other wants whenever you enter a room without them, sharing tea, coffee and snacks, spending time together sharing stories about yourselves family and discovering things that you find funny interesting or curious about.

2. How do you find solace in navigating romance as a queer couple?

(P) I think about how we're not the only ones navigating this and that we've got each other. It’s just about us and not anyone else. What's comforting is that this romance has its own uniqueness and it's beautiful to see it grow and mature.

(J) I remember that in as much as society can label us and give us these names, at the end of the day it’s her and I in the relationship. Two people who before they have to navigate who they are and what they mean to the world, have to not only navigate who they are and what they mean to each other, but firstly and most importantly who they are. And what they mean to themselves.

3. What is your love language?

(P) physical touch is right at the top of my list. I'm super duper affectionate and I am always touching Junz (Junior). Limbs are always entangled, a hand is being held or we're cuddling. It’s like a veil of love, no matter how small. Quality time comes second and being made or given food comes third.

(J) My love language would be quality time, but to be specific, the quality time usually involves watching series or movies, playing games together, painting, writing photoshoots, etc. Basically I like growing, creating, and exploring with Pix. After quality time it’s physical touch which basically goes hand in hand with the quality time tbh.

4. What is your definition of reciprocation ?

(P) my definition of reciprocation is the ability to match the energy, love and effort that's being given to you the best way you can. It doesn't have to be the exact same actions as the person giving them to you but in your own special way to show that you love this person as much as they love you.

(J) When I think reciprocation I think of giving yourself to someone and not in some Hollywood sense. Falling in love with someone is being loved, and knowing and feeling that you don’t want to hold back and have no reason to and you believe in this person, and want as much for them as they want for you.

5. What is your favourite thing, physically and emotionally, about your partner?

(P) Physically, it's the baby's smile and their face. I spend a lot of time staring at Junz' face because it makes my heart skip a beat. I never get tired of it. Emotionally, they're so tender, kind and caring. I am so grateful for that and I think about it so often how lucky I am that my life crossed paths with theirs.

(J) Physically I would say, her eyes, her smile, her hands, and if it counts how her skin feels to touch. Emotionally, I love that she never thinks twice about helping those she cares about and always puts loved ones first and she is someone you can trust and rely on. But somehow I have to say that I don’t have favourites really, because all of her is my favourite inside and out.

6. (pixxie) Have you found any difficulties dating a non-binary person?

Just the usual misgendering of Junior's pronouns. It’s hard bc people don't understand why Junior prefers they/them pronouns no matter how you explain it. I guess I could add that people are lazy and dismissive because they don't really have to put in that effort to discover themselves.

7. In your own words, what does it take to be in love with a person?

(P) You have to be honest, vulnerable, considerate and have the ability to healthily communicate. You gotta be their rock and safety net. I wish I could list everything but the biggest one I feel is important is that you should feel safe and that you have found your best friend in your partner.

(J) it's difficult and impossible to say because we all fall in love so many times in our lives, and because of how different we all are I can’t even begin to think what it takes to love someone but I think I’d say to love and to be loved, is something that’s just human nature, it doesn’t have to be taught it just is, and will be, we are all worthy of love.

Credits:

Models: @bbypumpkiiiin_ & @vandeaarde.gallery

Photographers: Both

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setabane · 3 years

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The Beauty of Queer Intimacy and Love

Words: Cassim Cassim

This series brings a delicacy in laidback intimacy between two individuals. Wenzile Dube continues to capture a commonality that threads an imagery of the beauty of queer love and intimacy that epitomizes softness, casual romantic moments and sweet delicate frankness. There is a sensitivity found between two queer bodies exuding love in its purest essence and the celebration of romanticism.

According to a journal published by Philip Hammack, he explains, “ recognition of sexual and gender diversity in the 21st century challenges normative assumptions of intimacy that privilege heterosexual monogamy and the biological family unit, presume binary cisgender identities, essentialize binary sexual identities, and view sexual or romantic desire as necessary.” The idea that romance is primarily cis-heteronormative erases the beauty of intimacy by queer people.

The word intimacy encompasses different meanings depending on different people. Sexual intimacy isn’t however the only form of intimacy but is certainly treated as the most valid. Intimacy, based on my opinion at least, transcends physicality and embraces bonds formed from vulnerability and shared reciprocation of feelings and emotions.

We argue that a queer paradigm shifts the dominant scientific conception of relationships away from the confines of normativity toward an embrace of diversity, fluidity, and possibility. This series, primarily rooted from black and queer experiences, is to completely devoid the assumption that intimacy can be non-normative and sexual but can be viewed as something beautiful. There’s a heavy tension embedded in the intimacy between two male bodies as it completely rebels against the confines of what is known as toxic masculinity. Two men cannot access the bliss of intimacy between each other, especially publicly, whether platonically or romantically, it suspends the possibility of violence and ridicule. This work is to take away the stigmatism behind intimacy between two male bodies and the potentiality of violence and exist in tender moments that make us human.

1. What is your idea of intimacy?

(T) Intimacy to me is being able to sit in silence with someone and not feel out of place. The homely feeling where the outside world becomes like a fever dream. That’s intimacy to me.

(C) My idea of intimacy is a celebration of the mind, body and soul and the intertwining of us both. It’s sitting in comfortable silence and living in the moment with someone. Intimacy is tracing your fingers through all the layers of your partner and loving all of them.

2. In its purest essence and form, what does love mean to you?

(T) Being able to give and receive someone's whole being and looking at it in awe. Seeing someone’s every fault and thinking, "this is the most perfect thing I've ever seen."

(C) Love in its purest form is like a fire that is fueled by little things like romanticism, tender moments and continuous conversations, as well as reciprocation. Love is selfish, but love is a beautiful thing, the epitome of light and romance.

3. What are your setbacks when it comes to displaying queer intimacy in public for you?

(T) I still struggle with social anxiety. I struggle with eyes and stories people don't know anything about being told. I rather be reclusive with my intimacy.

(C) I’ve been conditioned to fear public displays of affections. Even when a guy is hitting on me publicly, it feels so wrong and dangerous. My social anxiety makes it worse because I always think about what might happen to me when this happens. However I’m slowly coming out of it because I advocate for freedom to love freely.

4. What is your love language?

(T) Physical touch and quality time are my love language.

Credits

Photographer: Wenzile Dube

Model: @cxsside and @archhanngel

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setabane · 3 years

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The Exploration of Genderfluidity and Queerness through Fashion

Words: Cassim Cassim

Throughout the years, fashion has steadily and increasingly become progressive throughout the global sphere. Expression has become subjective and individuals have unearthed styles beyond societal standards.

This segment/campaign is a nod to the queer community and this new zine is to celebrate gender inclusion and transforming the suppression of expression. This campaign is going to be a culmination of Botswana’s sensitivity to queer culture.

Queer fashion and expression was conceptualized as an overpowering rebellious art form to reinsert queer bodies into the fashion forefront and to nullify the idea of what beauty is.

Lensed by Wenzile Dube, he progressively alludes a contemporary queer imagery, while Tyra Moalosi was kind enough to help formulate this project as she evolved her skills from what she was comfortable with to a rather haute couture editorial take on makeup, and she enjoyed it. Given the reality of violence against queer people in Botswana, queer people are often mythologized because they have feared to publicly express themselves fully. For example, a recent video emerged on Twitter depicting what seemed to be a queer femme body simply walking in a mall with a parade of aggressive paparazzi tailing them as if they saw something extraordinary, and that was that, because a femme presenting person with bright orange hair and high heels appeared in a public place, it was something unprecedented and thus Batswana have not yet been desensitized to the queer community.

There’s an exploration of an idea that queerness is a utopia, the feeling of being free and less anxious. Being visually queer and present in Botswana’s heteronormative society proves to be strenuous and exhausting to navigate as we face alienation and degradation from the onlooking audience. The truth is cisgendered heterosexuals or rather “straight-passers” have the luxury of navigating life without being ridiculed and submitted into a category of indecent acts of simply expressing themselves. Whereas queer bodies, especially trans and femme bodies, breed violence and anger amongst the masses simply by existing, poignant to say the least, flourishing as a queer person seems like a luxurious dream to some.

However, queer culture in Botswana is slowly depicted as revolutionary, emancipatory, subversive and liberating as we create a platform for the next generation to fearlessly express themselves wholeheartedly in our society. Queer people have to succumb to societal standards, dilute and belittle themselves in order to avoid radicalism and abuse, this is why it is important to build safe queer spaces and atmospheres to proliferate free queer expression.

As the director, moments like these were pivotal to me, I wanted the models’ voices to exceed even their own expectations. I wanted each and every model to feel empowered and know that they are the embodiment of history, a reason for constructing culture within Botswana’s ruinous sensitivity to queer culture and expression. Many times on goers would passively ask whether I was a boy or a girl or them simply not understand the meaning behind my expressions through clothing. At times, some people would just stare in awe or ask primitive questions about my sexuality - simply because I looked different from a typical male person.

At times we are baring witness to queer people expressing themselves, it’s not a demonstration, bravery or rebellion to the status quo, it’s clothing, it’s expression of self. It needs to be normalized, queerness through fashion and clothing is a collective manifestation of sexual and gender liberation, a manifestation that nurtured true beauty.

Credits:

curator and editor : @cxsside

stylist : @archhanngel

models:

@archhanngel

@cxsside

@keletsolawrence

@big.daddy.diddy

@unearthlygofaone

@jdee_ridge

@thecoolestdyke

@thatokhan

@itsbottleee

@afrique_hybrid

@thitotheenigma

MUA: @tyramoalosi

Photographer : @wenz_hd

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setabane · 3 years

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THE QUEER YOUTH OF BOTSWANA AND THEIR SUBVERSION OF HETERONORMATIVE SOCIETAL CULTURE

Words: Cassim Cassim

Over the past decades, queer people had to bridge themselves to the real world by elevating themselves to be seen. Steadily, what once was unprecedented becomes the new norm, the introduction and awareness of sexualities, gender, pronouns and everything in between becomes the new norm, and with the help of GenZ, centennials in Botswana become advocates and instigators for what needs to be, and subvert what is imbedded in the minds of Batswana. SETABANE had the privilege to interview 8 centennials that are challenging Botswana’s society and taking it by storm.

As an Editor, it brings immense satisfaction and jubilation to realize that behind the old generation follows a generation that will carry a legacy that will have every entity equal and seen. The decision to publish this campaign comes after the chain of discern that GenZ carries most of the societal standards and culture Botswana obeys. These are the people who will lead this country into equality and queer pride.

Thebe 17, he/him, queer How do you contribute towards dismantling traditions and views against being queer in Botswana?

In Botswana, I honestly feel we have a huge problem with following what had been the norm for ages and I believe that I put great interest into expressing myself regardless of my gender, background etc. I normally present this through the art of acting, it’s my greatest passion.

Tell me your views on fem-phobia within the queer community in Botswana?

It’s a tragedy that even within our own community we bring down our own, I feel that it’s a thing of retrospecting what we have and can achieve as a community united rather than discriminating against each other. It could take us very far.

What do you think about Botswana’s gay culture?

I still think that we’re growing but what we have is beautiful and will surely blossom into something more beautiful, we’re very unique and i can’t wait till everyone in Botswana can see who exactly we are.

Leilani 16, she/her, bisexual

How is it navigating yourself as a young bisexual woman?

As a young bisexual women navigating myself as an individual is difficult because I have been told that i am confused because society is fixed on life only being one way, which therefore puts me in a situation whereby i think i’m confused or “going through a phase”. Being Bisexual has taught me to enjoy the best of both worlds and taught me to balance two different worlds.

What are your thoughts on the fetishization of bisexuality in women?

It needs to stop because being bisexual should not make you think we are your objects and you can toy around with us. The way media portrays bisexual women as confused or that we are not taken seriously but being bisexual is real and we are not toys. One thing that I personally think people lack education about Bisexuality.

What do you think Botswana’s youth has in common?

Botswana’s youth has somewhat a sense of acceptance to an extent and are free to do whatever makes them feel happy and not caring what so and so has to say.

What is your advice for a young Queer Motswana reading this? My advice to young/old queer Motswana is take your time when finding your sexuality, don’t be afraid to experiment but at the same time don’t use us as objects. If you are afraid, there is a whole community of people who have their arms open to support you and take your time.

Peaches 18, she/her, pansexual

How has your sexuality affected your way of living?

I have tried to come out to my parents before but it did not go well. My parents were considering kicking me out of the house because they wanted a "normal daughter". I had to tell them I was lying in order to keep a roof over my head. I can only be myself when I'm at school, because there, no one really cares what you do. But with my family, I have to hide who I am.

What are some of the glories and hardships being a Queer woman in Botswana?

I have not had a lot of glories but one I can mention is finally figuring out who I am, where I'm from, and where I'm headed, and coming to terms with it. Accepting myself. I feel this is the most important step, loving yourself. No one is gonna do it for you so do what makes you happy. The hardest thing for me to do was to hide my sexuality from my family. It's very scary to fear what other people think and then also have to deal with judgements from your own family. It hurts how I have to smile like I'm okay even when I'm not. For some reason, queers think they need the validation and acceptance of society in order to live freely but the truth is we don't. We submit ourselves to opinions of people we do not even need. Why? Do you think Botswana will be a battleground or a safe haven for queer people in the future? I personally think Botswana will forever be a battleground for queer people. I say this because we hate against each other within the queer community, so why would we expect outsiders to accept us if we can't do the same with each other? Also, we are forever told how "wrong" or "lost" we are for being who we are. Everyone will always be entitled to their opinion, it's either you listen to it and be miserable or just don't care and do you. Be You Do You For You

Son 17, they/them, polysexual

How does being queer and in love feel in Botswana

On one hand it can feel a bit scary as Botswana is still a bit behind on the progression towards accepting queer folk. We can never be sure that the people around us will be natural and calm rather than be queer-phobic and violent. it doesn’t always feel safe to physically express this love in public. However, when we are in a safe space, expressing our love for each-other comes easily.

What are your experiences living outside of the Binary?

Honestly, hardly any different from when I thought I did fit into the binary. I do not feel any connection to the binary in regards to my gender identity, and never have, so putting a label on what I feel didn't really change much aside from allowing myself to achieve deeper self understanding. The way the people around me perceived me barely changed either. I'm used to people making assumptions about my gender identity based on my gender presentation, and while I'm glad I haven't encountered any blatant transphobes, people’s assumptions do sometimes make me feel uncomfortable.

Who are some of your inspirations and role models?

BTS, artists who are unafraid to talk about social issues, equality, injustice and self love, Amandla Stenberg, who played a huge role in the discovery of my gender identity, and a poet I came across recently who goes by the pen name tireless_hope, whose work i’m simply in love with. They’re all young artists who have achieved so much but still show so much humanness within them. They don't try to appeal to what people expect of them but rather what they want for themselves, and consuming these people’s art always fills me with a zeal for life

What do you think about the erasure of non-binary people?

In a way it hurts, to exist in a society that treats us like we are invisible and refuses to let us voice out on matters regarding our identities and trans identities in general because we are supposedly non-existent. It’s upsetting that identities that have always been around are getting passed off as “strange”, “new” and even “non-existent” by cis-het people, and even some LGBTQ+ folk. It’s especially upsetting to me when POC take part in non-binary erasure because it is based heavily in eurocentrism and only benefits the oppressor. Hopefully with the spread of knowledge people will open their minds and educate themselves to prevent this from happening.

Bynx 17, he/they, panromantic grey-asexual

What are your thoughts on the gender binary?

Personally, I think a strict gender binary isn't really necessary. I can understand when people say it's needed in terms of the medical field - but again, that's not much help when women constantly go without getting adequate medical treatment because of gender discrimination but that's a whole other can of worms to open. i feel like a lot of people forget the gender binary was only really brought on after colonialism. there's a lot of sources that confirm that many African tribes as well as Native American ones believed in other-gender and two-spirit people, and its sad to see when people from these cultures talk about going back to their roots or preserving culture yet they want to erase the existence of queer people. even when people hear things being said like 'gender is a social construct', they think we're just trying to push an agenda - but do they really understand what a social construct is? not too long ago, i saw this post from Tumblr user biggest-gaudiest-patronuses where they talked about how a social construct really just means it's something that the big people in charge can move around and change to suit their own preferences and beliefs and ignore the communities that these constructs are actively causing problems for. people are just scared of change when it comes to things like this, they see it as a threat to their comfort but with our change and without moving out of your comfort zone, how will you ever achieve growth? People who live outside the binary just want to be their authentic selves and be accepted and people shouldn't be threatened by that.

What is your experience being a trans-masc person in Botswana?

So far I haven't really encountered any problems bringing a trans-masc person in Botswana and I think that's mostly related to how accepting the people immediately closest to me are as well as how comfortable I am in my own identity. i get misgendered quite frequently but being misgendered by strangers doesn't bother me at all because i know how they perceive me doesn't matter because they don't know me. i notice when people close to me misgender me but it's not something that'll bother me because i know it's still a learning process for them and they're always considerate enough to correct themselves afterwards, it's also not something that bothers me because i know that they're aware of my identity and they'll respect it. it can become a bit of a tough spot when it comes to people that im not close to but acquainted with because i don't really care much for their personal opinions since they aren't closely related to my life but it still flares up some gender dysphoria when they continue to use my deadname or refer to me as she/her - which is usually pronouns im only really comfortable with close people calling me by - and i guess it bothers me because they're aware of who i am and they've directly asked people close to me about my name and such yet they continue to misgender me and i feel really disrespected by it. i'm not very concerned with passing since i already know who i am but sometimes the fear of being outed does worry me in terms of my actual physical safety because i know there's people who react violently to trans people - on the opposite side of the coin, there are days i do wish i was passing and it's usually when im out in public and it's just my partner and i and we have to take things like public transport because my biggest fear is always putting my partner in danger because there's usually no avoiding being perceived as an lgbtqia+ couple which can end up putting a target on us. i will admit though that i wish Botswana did allow medical transitioning here because then it'd make a lot of things accessible to many trans people in the country as they wouldn't have to go elsewhere for hrt and surgery - like currently i have to save upward of P100 000 just for top surgery alone without including travel costs, hrt and doctor appointments fees which is a major obstacle for not only me but other people who don't have the type of income to support that either.

Who are some of the queer trans artists you look up to?

i'll be honest, i don't really know a lot of queer/trans artists since i don't consume a lot of big media 💀 i might know and admire some but since i don't really consume a lot of their content, i can't really confidently say im a huge fan. though there are very few that i do look up to they're mostly YouTubers since that's where i spend a lot of my time. in terms of queer actors though, id say Sir Ian McKellen is probably my biggest inspiration not only because of the big roles he's played while being an openly gay man but also because of the actions he's taken to support the queer and theater communities (theater being something else that im very passionate about). with trans YouTubers; Jammidodger(transguy), Ash Hardell(trans-enby) and Samantha Lux(transgirl) have been a huge help in my personal journey in finding out more about my identity and myself as well as just being really fun YouTubers to watch. i really liked hearing out their experiences as trans/enby people and seeing the advice they had to give to other people in terms of not only surgery and hrt but with things like dressing and tips on coming out. i hope to share my experience and help other genderqueer people out the same way they did for me. one more person i look up to is someone id be bold enough to call my friend. they're an lgbtqia+ and trans rights activist in Botswana and they usually go my Phio or Blu for the time period ive known them and they've probably been one of the biggest helps in my personal journey. they were the first trans/genderqueer person id ever met back when i first started questioning my identity and i talked a lot with them about how i was feeling and trying to get comfortable with myself and they've always been there to listen, even helping me out with getting my first chest binder and they even give me tips about buying guys clothes and offering help for recommended places to go when i start transitioning. i even remember a time when they were a guest speaker on one of our local radio stations and while i couldn't tune in because i had drama practice, i remember being so excited because i felt that finally the voices of queer people were getting more recognized. I’m really glad that i have the opportunity to know them and talk to them and all the support they've extended to me is something i hope to be able to give to other queer youth that will flower after me.

Do you think Botswana is going to be led by pioneers such as yourself soon into a better future soon?

i'm not too well-versed on things like current affairs so i won't say much on this but a lot of change and acceptance has to happen in terms of the older generation and things like following tradition but i do believe that we might see a lot of change in the future. while it might take us a while to get to the point of queer people being elected into government positions, i believe our voices are starting to be heard. Just because decriminalization has happened doesn't mean it's time for us to relax, it's time for us to push for more change, we'll make strides together as a community.

What is your advice for a young queer Motswana reading this?

honestly guys, don't rush yourselves. take things one step at a time. it's okay to not know your identity, it's okay for it to change, it's okay to question who you are. even if you don't manage to figure out what your identity is, it's still okay. just love whoever you want to love and love how you want to live. as long as it's not hurting you or others, it's all valid. keep your chin up. I know it can be tough. but believe me, there's always gonna be people out there that love you for who you are and that's all that really matters.

Wapula 17, she/they, pansexual

Do you think Batswana are more inclusive of pansexuality?

I guess people aren’t as educated about pansexuality as much, there are so many misconceptions about being pansexual.

“Do pansexuals feel sexually attracted to animals”

“Are pansexuals normally in polygamous marriages” & so much more, I guess these questions come from the fact that as a pansexual we’re more attracted to the person, not their gender or sexuality, so people would instantly think we prefer to be in polygamous marriages, you know?

How do you navigate your life as a pansexual person in Botswana?

It’s extremely rare to find a pansexual in Botswana, so I wound by say it’s a lifestyle you know, I’ve always been one person that’s open about my sexuality & I’ve never felt the need to “come out”, of course there’s a lot of homophobia but it doesn’t affect me as much as it affects other queer individuals & that’s simply because I’ve just always been open about it you know?

Do you believe in gender?

I just think gender is a mindset, the thought of having to separate humanity based on our biological features is just stupid to me, the creation of “gender” is what leads to so many problems that we face as humanity today... being sexism & GBV & so many issues. People confuse gender & sexuality. Sexuality is broad, gender is just a mindset that is used to separate us based on our biological features.

Loago 16, she/her, demisexual

When did you first embrace the concept of demisexuality? And is it inclusive to anyone?

I first embraced the concept of demisexuality after seeing my best friends being able to grow out of their shell and be comfortable with their true self, with no fear of being judged. It was an inspiring thing for me because I don’t talk about my sexuality as much and I’ve received comments from straight guys that my sexuality is simply me trying to fit in with the crowd...most people confuse demisexuality for being bisexual but there’s a difference...I only see someone and I mean in the spiritual and emotional sense if i have an emotional connection with them, I don’t find people attractive unless i get a glimpse of their inner self and i connect with them on that level. I also do feel that maybe the trauma I’ve experienced has influenced this because it made me realize the importance of knowing and seeing someone behind all the masks they portray to the outside world and connecting with them spiritually when pursuing a relationship with them...

What do you think about the love scenes in Botswana’s youth scene?

I think majority of youth is lost when it comes to the perception of love I also blame tradition because the sad truth is that most of us come from dysfunctional or rather ‘special’ families and this is where we see a lot of abuse be it coming from the man or woman and especially in this country we have normalized this vicious cycle of ‘special’ families and it’s contributed to how a lot of us perceive love, we tell ourselves that in order for us to believe that we are loved or we love someone we must’ve put them through something or they must’ve put us through something because the impression most of us have , having seen our parents or relatives do this... and unfortunately unlike now in today’s world back in the day it was some what a taboo to end your marriage or ‘break’ your family that you’ve built with someone and hence why most marriages even despite the abuse still exist. I believe this is what influences the youth love scenes in Botswana, to undo this I believe we need to stop we need to stop cheating I love marriage sexuality as a taboo in this country, parents need to start having conversations with their children to help them understand what genuine love is and that love between heterosexual people and queer people is no different and we are all deserving of genuine love.

Kago 19, he/they, bisexual

What’s one thing your generation has in common?

I really believe my generation right now is a very liberated one and connected one. We really are about community and uplifting each other. We are together in these safe spaces, uplifting each other and respecting each other for who we really are uno.

Do you attach your sexuality to what you love doing?

Not actively, but when I get to working I'd like to think I work out of a unique place where my identity comes out as a product of that. So my sexuality does subconsciously become a part of my work.

How do you feel about bi-erasure and pan-erasure in men?

It's a frustrating struggle to be continuously fighting. Especially when the erasure comes from within the LGBTQ+ community. You start to ask yourself where you can feel safe if not in your own community uno.

Do you think you fully express your sexuality to others?

Fully? Not yet. Well probably not actively, but I know surely you must know my sexuality after a few conversations with me. It's a part of me that can not escape me so it is at the front line of my social interactions.

What contributed to helping you understand your sexuality?

Growing up around very open-minded people. This gave me the freedom to, once i started realizing i was bisexual, be comfortable to ask questions about it and be as curious as i needed until i realized that hell yeah i am bisexual uno.

Credits:

Editor: @cxsside

Art Director: @cxsside & @bbypumpkiiiin_

Models : @thebes.world @[email protected] @[email protected]@wapsworldwide @archhangel

Stylists + Wardrobe:@archhangel @_glotto @unearthlygofaone @bluuu.rraine_

Photographers:@vandeaarde @vandeaarde.gallery@wenz_hd

#BotswanaQueerYouth

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setabane · 4 years

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CELEBRATION OF NON-BINARY IDENTITY AND COMFRONTING NON-BINARY ERASURE

Words by: Cassim Cassim

Living in gendered society, it almost seems unfeasible and impossible to exist outside of the binary. However, the idea to some simply seems preposterous, uncanny and unprecedented to say the least. Batswana always seemed to float around their comfort zone (two sexes and no gender), so being the epitome for what they fear and don’t understand seems like a battle to feel valid and presenting yourself as a queer gender non-conforming person/non-binary person seem to exacerbate and accelerate uneasiness amongst Batswana even more, even the more liberal ones.

We have surrounded ourselves with queer bodies but have yet to elevate the visibility and eliminate the erasure of non-binary people. I (Cassim Cassim) strive to embellish our narrative and express it to people who have a distaste for our pronouns in their mouths.

Setabane spoke to two ordinary people who identify as queer, non-binary and gender non-confirming about existing in a binary obsessed society in our country and how hey navigate their queerness and increase visibility within the community, both queer and the heteronormative world, and what queer liberation feels like. Ama, the model and Junior the photographer, who I happily worked with to create this conversation.

Ama, 22 – Ama uses they/them pronouns and identifies as a queer Sri Lankan person in Botswana

Tell me about your experiences being non-binary

Being agender is quite freeing, to be honest. I don't care about societal pressures on gender roles etc so I'm free to live as I want to.

How do you feel about non-binary erasure both in and out of the community

It's quite sad that people are so hell bent on adhering so strictly to gender roles and binaries. It seems to me that people are scared to open their minds and think about things that are different from what they've been told so far.

Is there any gender non-confirming artist or figure you look up to

There are quite a few actually! Alok Menon, Akwaeke Emezi, Sam Smith, EVIL are some that immediately come to mind.

How do you think Botswana will elevate the non-binary narrative?

Botswana's lax laws on the LGBTQ community are wonderful because despite what peoples personal opinions are, it means that we aren't restricted legally and can't be discriminated against. This is a a great form of security to the community that doesn't exist in many other developing nations. We also have fearless organisations like LEGABIBO who have our back. These security measures allow people to experiment with gender and sexuality without fear and it's brilliant.

Junior, 24 - Junior uses they/he/she pronouns and identifies as a queer, non-binary Motswana

Tell me about your experiences being non-binary

My experience has been okay, in the sense that I haven't experienced anything bad because of who I am, but I have seen that it's not the same for everyone so I have tried to work on doing what I can with what I know and use what I can do to try and show people that just because they don't understand everything about me and what makes me who I am, doesn't

How do you feel about non-binary erasure both in and out of the community

I think the best way I can put it is that I come across binary options daily, and as I’m living my truth louder and prouder than ever before, it’s becoming more and more jarring. Bathroom signs; surveys; forms; clothing; speech; books; f*cking birthday cards: all of these things and more present the binary to me in some way. In a nutshell, it is a very frustrating and tiring way to live

Is there any gender non-confirming artist or figure you look up to

(I can think of any artists yet but I knowsl there's one and going through my insta but it's shadow banned so it's a bit if a struggle but I'll find it and send the name soon)

How do you think Botswana will elevate the non-binary narrative?

It would be helpful to create awareness and how to address a non-binary issues in and outside of Botswana and I feel like the youth in the country not just the non binary youth but the LGBTQ community as a whole

Photography: Vandeaarde

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setabane · 4 years

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#Bi_Series: Jade Ridge

Setabane (S): What is like growing up in Botswana?

Jade (JR): Growing up here for me was the best decision my parents made. As much as I would like to leave Botswana and live elsewhere, I really do love it here.

(S): What is an ideal relationship like for you?

(JR): An ideal relationship for me is all about honesty and communication. If my partner and I are able to build that then we will both feel comfortable and free to express our feelings or anything that could be on our minds.

(S): Does your gender expression affect your daily life in Botswana?

(JR): I don’t think my gender expression really affects my daily life, in a negative way that is. Honestly, I just do me and don’t care. I’m more of a feminine bisexual woman but on days that I just go out in sweats, a big T and sneakers, I don’t think I get weird looks from people. It’s just a normal day for me. And even if I were to get those weird looks, I wouldn’t really care. It’s all about owning who you are, being proud and cat walking it out.

(S): What are the misconceptions and stigmatism you’ve heard about your sexuality and gender?

(JR): Well, in terms of sexuality, I’m not really like completely out of the closet but I guess doing this article is me taking that step. What I can say is that people seem to not understand what being bisexual is. They think it’s all about getting the best of both worlds but it’s really not. And usually the first thing that comes to very narrow minded people when you’re bisexual is “Kante haa kgore?”. Like, what’s that supposed to mean? Being bisexual has nothing to do with go sa kgora but everything to do with who you are. People assume bisexual women are bisexual just so they can “have fun” with the same sex but it really isn’t like that. We love men and we love women.

(S): Is there any LGBTQ+ movement or artist you are paying attention to now?

(JR): Honestly, no, there isn’t any. There’s really no lgbtq artist I’m paying attention to so there’s really not much I can say on this one.

(S): What makes you feel euphoric about being queer?

(JR): Owning it is what makes me feel euphoric. Owning who you are is the sexiest thing and you can never ever go wrong when you do that. Like, sometimes I still don’t believe that I am really bisexual and it amazes me like damn girl, this is who you are and genuinely, I love it! And also being able to stand up for queer people who can’t speak for themselves makes me feel euphoric.

(S): What is your favorite tv series/movie?

(JR): It has to be Euphoria-series (I’ve probably watched like over 5 times), How To Get Away With Murder-series and Call me by your name-movie. Shout out to my girl for putting me on

(S): Do you feel the societal pressure of being in a relationship with someone of the opposite sex?

(JR): First of all, I want to say this. Stop thinking that if somebody is bisexual and they’re in a heterosexual relationship, they’re not bisexual.

I’m bisexual, and I have a boyfriend. And also, being in a same sex relationship does not define your sexuality. You define your sexuality. The societal pressure I feel is not really from the society, I could care less about what the society thinks BUT I do care about what my family thinks and by family I mean my parents Like I said, I’m not completely out so yeah that’s the only pressure I feel at the moment.

#QueerBotswana #JadeRidge #bisexual

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setabane · 4 years

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#Bi_Series: Taffiny Kablay

Setabane (S): What is like growing up in Botswana?

Taffiny (TF): Growing up in Botswana is very interesting because it is more or less "safer" than other countries but there is a level of conservatism that I never related to. Growing up in a ‘’Motswana and Indian’’ household did not help, both cultures are not very open to LGBTQ+ or even just making your own choices in general. When you live here, there is no room to be yourself without other people's opinions. You have to unlearn those structural beliefs.

(S): What is an ideal relationship like for you?

(TF): An ideal relationship for me looks like growing with someone, either emotionally or spiritually. I like the idea of constant movement forward, growing into the best versions of ourselves and pushing each other to follow our passions. Safety is a huge deal to me as well, I need to feel safe to be able to share anything with you and trust that you have my back.

(S): Does your gender expression affect your daily life in Botswana?

(TF): Yes, it does affect my daily life, I think more so because I am a woman. My family gets concerned when I dress more androgynously, like I look too much "like a boy". But it can be as simple as an interaction or a trip to the doctor where someone will assume that I must be in a heterosexual relationship or that I need to be married to one to be an acceptable person on society. In reality, I am not in a relationship at all but the assumption that it must be to a cis hetero man definitely impacts what I feel I can show in public spaces and things I can't say out loud. Even growing up, there was a lot of pressure to have a crush or the need to be interested in men alone. I followed through because that was what was expected of me.

(S): What are the misconceptions and stigmatism you’ve heard about your sexuality and gender?

(TF): The stigmatism surrounding being a bisexual woman is a difficult subject simply because its a combination of biphobia, homophobia, hypersexualization and misogyny. A misconception I have heard is that it is "the best of both worlds" and cis hetero men usually equate bi women being attracted to women as a chance to play out their fantasies of a threesome and it's simply insulting. Another thing is being "straight passing" which can invalidate the fact that bi people can be in heterosexual relationships without their sexuality changing. For example, people who are bi-phobic or homophobic have this idea that I need to be married to a man and have kids. I am bisexual, it is totally in the realm of possibility to do if that is what I want to do. The equate bisexualty to being lesbian or gay and its a huge stereotype. In terms bisexual people as a whole, I think its unfortunate that bi men have to deal with homophobia that comes from both cis hetero women and men. The last and most annoying misconception is that bi people are attracted to more than 1 gender and therefore that means they are cheaters. Bisexuality does not mean infidelity or promiscuous behavior.

(S): Is there any LGBTQ+ movement or artist you are paying attention to now?

(TF): At the moment, I guess I would say I am following the work of Rebecca Sugar, the first woman to independently create a series for Cartoon network "Steven Universe". She identifies as non-binary bisexual woman. Her work has saved me on multiple occasions.

(S): What makes you feel euphoric about being queer?

(TF): I am euphoric about being queer because it is at the core of who I am. I am more comfortable in my skin knowing that I am not crazy for what I am. I also get to meet a ton of great people in my community. There is an openness with LGBTQ+ people, especially black and PoC folks who identify as such. The conversations and support are overwhelmingly wonderful. Grateful to be here.

(S): What is your favorite tv series/movie?

(TF): My favorite series right now is Midnight Gospel on Netflix

(S): Do you feel the societal pressure of being in a relationship with someone of the opposite sex?

(TF): Oh definitely, especially at my age.. "When will you get married(to a man), when will you have kids(with a man)", its too much pressure. I think its also ridiculous to think that ANY women regardless of sexuality or what they identify as would be so open to legally binding themselves to cis hetero men after the amount of abuse and assault they inflict on us. Especially knowing now that marriage as a system only benefits men.

#QueerBoyswana Bisexual TaffinyKablay

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