How Sothokids stayed true for nearly a decade

In a country where youth unemployment remains one of the most pressing challenges and where cultural identity is increasingly competing with global influences, Sothokids Culture Agency has quietly built a reputation as one of Lesotho’s most consistent cultural and youth development organizations.

For nearly a decade, the agency has remained committed to a mission that goes beyond entertainment and cultural showcases. At its core, Sothokids Culture Agency seeks to preserve and promote Basotho culture while creating meaningful opportunities for young people to develop their talents, build confidence, and access livelihoods.

Founded by cultural advocate and youth development practitioner MakhebeSeatlana, the agency was born out of a simple but powerful realization: Lesotho is rich in talent, but many young people lack platforms to showcase their abilities and transform them into opportunities.

“I was inspired by my deep passion for Basotho culture and my desire to create opportunities for young people,” Seatlana explained.

“Growing up, I witnessed many talented young people whose potential often went unnoticed because they lacked platforms to showcase their abilities. At the same time, I noticed that our cultural heritage was gradually losing visibility among younger generations.”

This dual challenge of preserving culture while addressing youth unemployment became the foundation upon which Sothokids was built.

According to Seatlana, the vision was never limited to cultural preservation alone. It was also about proving that culture and creativity can contribute to economic development and job creation.

“Many young people possess incredible talents in arts, culture, modelling, dance and other creative fields, but they often lack opportunities to transform those talents into sustainable livelihoods,” he said.

“I wanted Sothokids to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity.”

Over the years, the organization has remained faithful to its founding principles. Its mission continues to centre on cultural preservation, youth empowerment, mentorship, education and community development. Despite operating in a challenging economic environment, the agency has resisted the temptation to compromise on its values.

“We have never compromised on integrity, respect for culture, professionalism, inclusivity and the empowerment of young people. Success should never come at the expense of our values,” Seatlana said.

Like many organisations in the creative sector, Sothokids has faced its share of obstacles. Financial constraints, limited resources, difficulties securing sponsorships and sustaining operations have tested the organization’s resilience.

There were moments when giving up seemed like a possibility.

“Yes, there were certainly moments when the challenges felt overwhelming,” Seatlana admits. “However, every time I saw a young person’s life transformed through this agency, I was reminded of why I started. Those success stories gave me the strength to keep moving forward.”

That persistence has produced remarkable results.

Perhaps one of Sothokids’ greatest achievements has been its ability to take Basotho culture beyond Lesotho’s borders. Through its programmes and international engagements, the agency has represented the country in France, Spain, the Canary Islands, Turkey, Botswana, Japan, Eswatini, Qatar, South Africa and the United States.

These experiences have not only showcased Basotho culture to global audiences but have also opened doors for young people who may never have imagined themselves performing or representing their country on international stages.

There is hardly any major event that takes place in Lesotho for both the public and private sector without Sothokids being the point of entertainment for the guests or the audience.

“I am equally proud of the many young people whose lives have been transformed through our programmes. Watching them grow into confident leaders, performers, models, entrepreneurs and cultural ambassadors has been one of the most rewarding aspects of this journey.”

At a time when globalization continues to reshape identities and influence younger generations, Sothokids has worked to strike a balance between tradition and innovation. The organization embraces digital storytelling, social media, photography, videography and online campaigns to make culture accessible and relevant to today’s youth.

Technology, Seatlana believes, has become a powerful ally in preserving and promoting cultural heritage.

“Through digital platforms, we are able to share Basotho culture with the world and connect with young people more effectively,” he said.

Yet he remains concerned that without deliberate efforts to preserve traditions, language and cultural values, younger generations may lose touch with their roots.

This concern is one of the reasons Sothokids continues to invest in cultural education, mentorship and youth engagement initiatives.

Looking ahead, the organization is focused on growth, sustainability and expanding its impact. Plans include strengthening international partnerships, increasing youth development programmes, supporting entrepreneurship, creating employment opportunities and launching new cultural exchange initiatives.

After nearly a decade of service, Sothokids Culture Agency’s story is ultimately one of resilience and purpose. It demonstrates that culture is not merely something to be celebrated on special occasions; it can be a catalyst for opportunity, social change and economic empowerment.

As the agency prepares for its next chapter, Seatlana hopes its legacy will be measured not only by the cultural performances it has staged or the countries it has visited, but by the lives it has transformed.

“I want future generations to see the organization as proof that culture can be a powerful tool for social change, personal growth and national development,” he said.

For nearly ten years, Sothokids Culture Agency has remained rooted in culture while empowering young people to dream bigger, reach further and proudly carry Lesotho’s identity onto the world stage.

Chris Theko

A Professional Communications practitioner with a wealth of expertise in marketing, public speaking, communication and media relations. I believe in learning everyday and improving one’s personal and professional capabilities.

* A former journalist and radio host who is passionate about media and it’s impact on society.