Robust Hun, the Mixologist, takes over the cocktail scene
WHEN one thinks of a strawberry daiquiri, mojito, or martini – beloved staples among urbanites a familiar image often comes to mind: a fit young stud theatrically flipping liqueur bottles, shaking shiny stainless-steel vessels, and decanting concoctions into dainty glassware for a mostly female crowd.
That image, however, is rapidly evolving with the rise of female mixologists like Gaborone-born Kesego Samantha Moeng, who are boldly raising the bar (pun intended).
Affectionately known as Robust Hun, the seasoned mixologist will showcase her library of libations this weekend, Saturday the 7 th , at the TatsoConnekt Gin & Tea Brunch at the newly opened Arabella Café in Lobatse. The brunch promises to blend wellness, taste, and meaningful human connection, ‘opening up the spirits’ from 11am to 3pm.
A passionate all-rounder in every pursuit, Robust Hun wears many hats with ease: a corporate MC, digital marketer, content creator, plus-size model, and public relations strategist, all while mastering the art of mixology.
Her journey behind the bar began with a nudge from a close friend. “As a young lady deeply grounded, with strong people skills and a desire to leave a mark, I decided my digital footprint would be my pride. In the streets of social media, specifically Facebook, I met Tshepiso Moremi, who believed I could do well as a mixologist. I had no clue about spirits or cocktails, but I started researching, and that’s how it all began,” she shares, adding the brand was initially called Exuberant Sips, but the name didn’t quite roll off the tongues of cocktail lovers.
A rebrand was thus inevitable, giving birth to Robust Hun Seasoned Mixologist.
Blessed with exceptional interpersonal skills, Robust Hun has built an impressive online following: over 12 000 followers on Facebook, 81 000 on X, nearly 2 000 on the Gram, and a whopping 170 000 on TikTok.
Her craft has been amplified through collaborations with notable agencies and brands such as Native Events, KBL, Heineken Botswana, Benju, and SMC Brands.
“One principle I pride myself on is excellent customer service. When service time ends and guests ask, ‘Re ntshe bokae o re nose some more?’, that always tells me I’ve done a great job. It warms my heart every time,” she says.
Seven years into her journey, Robust Hun’s liquid refreshments continue to win over many a discerning palate. She dreams of breaking into the European market, the City of Love in particular. “I hope to one day travel to Paris and share my skills and talent,” she says, noting that her proudest moment was winning the Schweppes Mixologist Competition in 2022.
So, how does she approach the art of cocktail-making?“Precision!” she states emphatically. “A well-prepared cocktail or mocktail will always hit the spot,” she says, adding among her more unconventional successes is a ginger-and-gin pairing.
Her signature blend of booze? “A classic Whiskey Sour.”
Though her drinks often feature alcohol, Robust Hun is equally proficient at crafting delectable non-alcoholic options.
This versatility makes her the perfect fit for the “lifestyle-forward experience” awaiting guests in the ever-weather-perfect, hilly city of Lobatse.
Organised by Basadi Masimolole of Bash Connektor in collaboration with Botho Treats, the Gin & Tea Brunch will offer more than just drinks.
“People can expect a full experience, understanding the flow and process of making cocktails and mocktails. While mixologists are often associated only with alcohol, I curate non-alcoholic beverages for kiddies’ parties, church functions, wellness days – any occasion that doesn’t require alcohol,” she explains.
Still navigating a male-dominated industry, Robust Hun has faced her fair share of challenges. Yet, she remains undeterred,and has even trained another young woman now pursuing a career in mixology.
“I’m often undermined and questioned… until they taste my craft,” she says, and confidently continues: “After that, they never leave the bar.”
Intentional about growth, she hopes to collaborate with brands focused on curated cocktail experiences and dreams of hosting cocktail masterclasses across Botswana.
“If there are collaborators reading this, please do get in touch,” she adds, sharing her contact details.
“For bookings, I can be reached on 74 774 683 or via email at robusthun@gmail.com. Find me on social media: Facebook,Kesego Samantha Moeng; TikTok, @robust_hun; Instagram, Robust Hun; X, Robust hun.”
Her advice to young women eager to enter the field is as refreshingly simple as her versatile cocktails: “Go for it! You are limitless. Do it all with love.”
