Content Team 
CAPTURING THE UNTAMED BEAUTY OF THE BOTSWANA
We had the privilege and honour to be part of the pre-launch private exhibition themed “IKIGAI” by a renowned self-taught wildlife photographer and managing director of Vixen Excursion, Ms. Tshepo Phokoje. She had spent the better part of her life working in the world of logistics, a field where she excelled for more than 4 years. Her ability to manage the chaos of the corporate world made her a force to be reckoned with, but deep down, she knew that her true passion was elsewhere, and she discovered it during the most difficult period while the entire world was on lockdown during the COVID-19 era.
Her journey as a professional wildlife photographer was not premeditated. She merely found solitude as an opportunity to connect with nature and take simple snapshots with her camera as a way of coping with anxiety and sharing them on social media. To her surprise, the response was overwhelmingly positive. Friends and even strangers commented on her photos, praising her unique perspective on capturing the beauty in everyday moments. She started learning photo editing and found herself longing for something different, something that would set her soul on fire.
The spark of her passion was ignited when she embarked on an adventurous Botswana Safari Camp exploration. As she gazed out over the vast, untouched wilderness, she felt an undeniable connection to the natural world that surrounded her. At that moment, she decided to follow her heart and immerse
herself in the world of wildlife photography. She bought a professional camera and embarked on a journey of self-discovery, capturing the untamed beauty of the Botswana savannah. Her keen eye for detail and her unwavering determination led her to produce some of the most breathtaking wildlife photographs ever seen.
As she delved deeper into her newfound craft, she faced a harsh reality: the wildlife photography industry was overwhelmingly male-dominated and required multiple trips to various parts of the country. Undeterred, Tshepo continued to hone her skills and immerse herself in the world of nature. She knew that her unique perspective as a woman in this field could bring a fresh, captivating dimension to her work.
However, her path was not without its challenges. Despite her incredible talent, she faced gender biases where she worked and also got fired within just three months, without explanation or notice. Nonetheless, she was not discouraged, and then she redirected her newly acquired craft to redefine her purpose and saw this temporary setback as an opportunity to forge her own path. She decided to turn her passion into a business and set out on her own as an independent wildlife photographer under Vixen Excursion. With her unyielding determination, Tshepo roamed the Botswana wilderness, capturing the magic of the animal kingdom through her lens. Her work spoke to the soul, conveying the beauty, fragility, and wonder of the natural world. Her photographs showcased the majesty of lions, snakes, and leopards, the grace of giraffes, and the playfulness of elephant calves. When asked about where she gets her strength from, she simply stated,
“I am a Phokoje, or Jackal in English. Growing up, I used to be ashamed to be called by my
surname because I was being mocked by my peers. Even at my former workplace as a public servant, I wasn’t comfortable being addressed as Mma Phokoje, but now I am more content with being a true Phokoje.”
The unique characteristics of a Jackal resonated with what she does now: being opportunistic, always thinking about her own benefit, and thriving to do better to fend for herself and her kids.
As her portfolio grew within a short period of time, Tshepo’s reputation as a talented newcomer wildlife photographer began to spread. She took advantage of the support she received from friends, family, and strangers who fell in love with her work. She was nominated for the 2nd Runner-Up: Africa Tourism Leadership Awards 2022—Outstanding Africa Tourism Media & Marketing Award, and her story of resilience in a male-dominated industry inspired many. It was then that the idea of the “Ikigai”-themed wildlife photography exhibition auction was born. The exhibition would not only showcase Tshepo’s recent work but also tell her remarkable story of overcoming adversity and finding her true purpose.
CAPTURING THE UNTAMED BEAUTY OF THE BOTSWANA
The “Ikigai” exhibition was a resounding success. Tshepo’s photographs moved hearts and minds, and her story touched the souls of those who attended. The auction of her prints garnered substantial support, and the proceeds went towards her Young Female Photographer Mentorship Program and preparations for her upcoming wildlife photography projects. In the future, some proceeds will go towards wildlife conservation, fulfilling a mission that is now deeply intertwined with her passion.
We were delighted to learn the story and inspiration behind some of the pictures during the exhibition. Among the exhibits, there was one piece of artwork of a leopard transitioning from the ground to the top of the tree. Phokoje explained that she managed to capture this magnificent piece through patience and determination, and she believes that her faith also guided her throughout her work and that she has a special connection with nature.
Tshepo Phokoje had not only found her true calling but had also carved a niche for herself in a male-dominated industry. Her journey from logistics to wildlife photography was a testament to the power of perseverance, self-discovery, and the pursuit of one’s true purpose. She became an inspiration to all who aspired to follow their dreams, proving that with unwavering determination, persistence, and courage, even the wildest of dreams could come true in the vast, untamed canvas of life. IKIGAI.
ARTICLE BY: TSHEGOFATSO PHAKETSANE AND IMAGES BY: PHILLIP MODISE
