Hit single puts Minister Leo on the map
Leokeditswe Bagotsi, affectionately known as Minister Leo, is a rising Gospel voice whose journey from the pews of Moshupa to national prominence is powered by a deep desire to touch lives.
Speaking to Voice Entertainment, the 25-year-old recalled discovering her calling early, during her primary school days.
“Growing up in a God-fearing home, I realised the gift God placed in me at a young age. Through ministering in church, I knew singing for Him was my purpose. God chose this path for me, I’m simply walking in His will,” shares the talented young artist, whose big break came when she joined Hosanna Gospel Singers in May 2024.
It’s a life-changing moment she describes as ‘divine intervention’.
“Joining Hosanna was God answering my prayer. I auditioned with ‘Gaufi Le Morena’, the same song I later recorded, and the founder instantly knew I was the one he’d been looking for,” she remembers with a fond grin.
Five months after its release, the hit single, which translates as ‘closer to the Lord’, is closing in on a million YouTube views, with the number currently sitting at 822, 000.
“The song came from a season where I was intentionally seeking God’s presence. I wanted people to be reminded that no matter what they face, the safest place is near Him,” she explains, adding ‘Gaufi Le Morena’ has opened doors for her, with the bookings pouring in.
Filmed live at Molapo Crossing, the recording nearly didn’t happen at all.
“Minutes before going on stage, I actually had no voice haha. But with support from Hosanna and our leader, I managed. It was all God, honestly,” reveals Minister Leo.
Among the mountain of feedback she has received from fans over the song, one testimony stands out.
“A woman battling depression told me the song restored her strength to pray again. Moments like that remind me why I do this.”
Not one to rest on past success, Minister Leo is hard at work expanding her network, collaborating with artists in Botswana and South Africa.
She has built strong working relationships with Nombuso Nhlapo, Zanele Mlumbo, and Sbonga Mtshali, while locally has collaborated with King David, Johnson Pheto, Mahazell, Tlotlo Ralefana, and Precious Mogopodi.
Her dream is to team-up with Swazi star, Nothando Hlophe.
“Yoh, the woman is a powerhouse!” she exclaims with excitement.
Looking ahead, Minister Leo plans to host her own show to minister to Batswana through Gospel.
“I really want to move and shake Botswana,” declares the singer, who credits her mentor, Mr. Nico, for shaping her growth through vocal training and guidance on navigating the industry without compromising her faith.
