One of Botswana’s oldest talent search shows, My Star is set to return for a 16th edition this year. The event is an innovative platform which is dedicated to showcasing the immense talent of Batswana youth. For a country with such a small population like Botswana, the founder of the event, Keabetswe ‘Master D’ Sesinyi is promising a spectacular event this year.
The show returns after a one-year hiatus, and while Sesinyi will not be drawn into other facets of the event, such as complaints of unpaid dues to previous winners, he is confident that the show will go on. Highlights to look forward to include improved sound and stage. In a press release, he explains that My Star faces unique challenges in sustaining and promoting this cultural extravaganza.
It is worth noting that this year’s show has been financially supported, he says, but calls for more Sponsors. “The nation should brace itself for the best show,” he says. Giving an outlook of the background of the show, Sesinyi explains that unlike international talent shows that thrive on substantial revenue streams, My Star relies on sponsorships to fund its prizes and production costs.
He also shares that the dedicated team of 16 young Batswana professionals, handles crucial aspects such as production, venue arrangements, and contestant tutorials. “Some episodes are shot over multiple days, making it a labour-intensive process that requires financial backing,” he states.
Sesinyi also shares that the financial challenges faced by My Star, includes not being able to secure sponsorship since 2017 and that beyond 2019 it the worst period, as possible sponsors withdrew last minute, citing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing financial recovery. “Despite these hurdles, the show persists, with the founder actively seeking individual or corporate sponsorship to support the winners and maintain the show's high production standards,” he points. Beyond Prize Money, he further says that My Star provides contestants with more than just an opportunity to win monetary prizes.
The platform, he says offers unparalleled visibility to thousands of Batswana viewers through episodes aired on BTV. Contestants gain exposure and have the chance to showcase their talents, with the winner and standout performers earning the unique opportunity to have a single produced for them, he points out. “Producing a single episode, however, comes with its own set of challenges.
Breaking through the noise of a crowded industry, where copyright laws and social media algorithms pose significant barriers, requires strategic planning and financial investment. My Star bridges this gap, granting contestants a platform for airplay and interviews, and connecting them with potential fans, as well as giving them a head start in their musical careers,” he explains.
The show returns after a one-year hiatus, and while Sesinyi will not be drawn into other facets of the event, such as complaints of unpaid dues to previous winners, he is confident that the show will go on. Highlights to look forward to include improved sound and stage. In a press release, he explains that My Star faces unique challenges in sustaining and promoting this cultural extravaganza.
It is worth noting that this year’s show has been financially supported, he says, but calls for more Sponsors. “The nation should brace itself for the best show,” he says. Giving an outlook of the background of the show, Sesinyi explains that unlike international talent shows that thrive on substantial revenue streams, My Star relies on sponsorships to fund its prizes and production costs.
He also shares that the dedicated team of 16 young Batswana professionals, handles crucial aspects such as production, venue arrangements, and contestant tutorials. “Some episodes are shot over multiple days, making it a labour-intensive process that requires financial backing,” he states.
Sesinyi also shares that the financial challenges faced by My Star, includes not being able to secure sponsorship since 2017 and that beyond 2019 it the worst period, as possible sponsors withdrew last minute, citing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing financial recovery. “Despite these hurdles, the show persists, with the founder actively seeking individual or corporate sponsorship to support the winners and maintain the show's high production standards,” he points. Beyond Prize Money, he further says that My Star provides contestants with more than just an opportunity to win monetary prizes.
The platform, he says offers unparalleled visibility to thousands of Batswana viewers through episodes aired on BTV. Contestants gain exposure and have the chance to showcase their talents, with the winner and standout performers earning the unique opportunity to have a single produced for them, he points out. “Producing a single episode, however, comes with its own set of challenges.
Breaking through the noise of a crowded industry, where copyright laws and social media algorithms pose significant barriers, requires strategic planning and financial investment. My Star bridges this gap, granting contestants a platform for airplay and interviews, and connecting them with potential fans, as well as giving them a head start in their musical careers,” he explains.
