Leru Property Group – Key PeopleBakang is not just an entrepreneur; he is a dynamic force and a catalyst for change, embodying the role of a change-maker with commitment to entrepreneurship as a powerful remedy for poverty eradication, talent empowerment &wealth creation in Africa. His relentless dedication to authenticity while pursuing purpose-driven dreams serves as a testament to his mission of making a significant impact.
Motivated by a deep passion for luxury, he sees it as a commitment for everyone to embrace excellence in all aspects of life, surpassing ordinary standards and aspiring for greatness. This philosophy guides his decisions, actions, and aspirations, illustrating his dedication to achieving success in every endeavor. He actively advocates for sustainability in businesses to address climate change. As the founder of Leru Property Group, 31/5 Luxury Group, and Segodi Auctions , He has played a pivotal role in luxury goods and services, impactful real estate developments, and auctions. Commencing his career at RMB Properties (now Eris Property Group) in South Africa, he later joined its subsidiary in partnership with Botswana Investment Fund Manager. His extensive involvement extends to various boards in private and parastatal organizations. He has been instrumental in advancing sustainable initiatives and support for various NGOs in the creative industry, education, counselling, and business mentorship projects underscores his commitment to community development. Bakang has been involved in impactful property developments &asset management in his career that include Sarona Shopping, Seriti Residential Units (240), Epson Sarona Units (200) Units ,Airport Junction Shopping Mall, Virgin Active, Turn-star Building Refurbishment, Town Lodge Hotel, Rail Park Shopping Centre Phase 2 (Edgar's Extension & Puma Filling Station) Game City Phase 2 Extension - (Leasing and Tenant Coordination), FNB Head Office Botswana and One-O-One Industrial (SA) to name the few as well as working with Private Sector companies that include Banks, Listed Fund, Retailers etc. Board Membership \Leadership
CSR Initiatives
Kitso Selotate brings a wealth of expertise with over 15 years of experience in both Quantity Surveying and Facilities Management. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Construction Studies and further pursued a Bachelor of Science Honours Degree in Quantity Surveying, both achieved at the University of Cape Town.
As a dedicated professional, Kitso is not only well-versed in the intricacies of quantity surveying but has also demonstrated competence in facilities management. Actively contributing to sustainable building practices in Botswana, he serves as a founding member and participant in the Green Building Council of Botswana (BoGBC). The council is committed to advocating for and implementing environmentally conscious building practices within the nation's built environment. Throughout his career, Kitso has been engaged in a diverse range of contracts, providing comprehensive pre, post, and operational contract services. His experience spans various building contract forms and building management systems, showcasing a versatile skill set in the construction industry.
Thandeka Palai is a seasoned Architect and Entrepreneur with an extensive background in the creative industry. Armed with a Masters of Architecture from the University of Cape Town, South Africa, and a Business & Entrepreneurship certification from Rutgers University, Philadelphia, USA, she brings over 13 years of invaluable experience to her field.
Holding licenses as an Architect in both South Africa and Botswana, Thandeka has left an indelible mark on the architectural landscape. She has refined her skills through impactful roles at two distinguished African architectural firms, namely Paragon Architects in Johannesburg and Peerutin Architects in Cape Town. Her professional journey has involved participation in large-scale, award-winning projects with a combined value exceeding P1 billion across South Africa, Kenya, and Botswana. Thandeka's commitment extends beyond her architectural expertise. She served as the Vice-President of the Architects Association of Botswana, actively contributing to the growth and development of the architectural community. In her entrepreneurial ventures, she is the Founder and Director of Lebone Architects, a contemporary architecture firm based in Gaborone, Botswana. Going beyond the realm of architecture, Thandeka has expanded into the retail space as the Founder and Owner of One-Six Store, a chic lifestyle destination situated at Sarona City Mall in Gaborone. Her unwavering commitment to excellence, innovative design, and business acumen positions her as a dynamic force in both the architectural and retail sectors. These include:
Thomas, Director of Business Development, is entrusted with the pivotal role of formulating and executing business strategies to achieve both short and long-term objectives. His responsibilities extend to providing valuable market insights and strategic guidance. Thomas is highly esteemed and in demand among prominent property investors and financial institutions. His commendable track record in selling properties through auction platforms has made him a prominent figure in the real estate landscape.
With over a decade of experience, Thomas has significantly contributed to reshaping the real estate auction scene in Botswana. His journey began with a graduation from Monash University in 2006, where he earned honors in Communications and Marketing. Over the years, he has acquired multiple diplomas in Auctioneering, Risk Management, Project Management, and Human Resources. Currently pursuing a Master of Science in Real Estate from the University College of Estate Management in Reading, United Kingdom, Thomas remains dedicated to advancing his knowledge in the field. A proud member of the Real Estate Institute of Botswana, he brings a wealth of expertise to the table. Thomas spent 14 years at SFB Auctions, a division of Stocker Fleetwood-Bird, where he ascended the ranks from Consultant to Head of Department in 2012. In 2016, he was appointed General Manager and three months later, became the Director. In 2020, Thomas co-founded Segodi Auctions & Advisory. As a distinguished auctioneer, Thomas has successfully represented various corporate clients, including Debswana, First National Bank, BBS Limited, Stanbic Bank, First Capital Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, Access Bank, ABSA, and CEDA. His adept facilitation of auction sales has contributed to transactions totaling over P300 million in immovable property value. Zanele Methikge, is currently the office manager ,who is is poised to carve her niche in the business industry as a young Motswana. Holding a Diploma in Events Management from Limkokwing University, Zanele initially excelled as the Chief Customer Officer at Verbosec (a Tech Company) from 2019 to 2020. Subsequently, she expanded her experience by serving as a receptionist at Golf Estate for a year.
Guided by the principle of versatility, Zanele embraces the exploration of diverse fields and ideas, never allowing setbacks to deter her. This mindset propelled her into the insurance sector, where she acquired a Certificate in Proficiency and worked as a Sales Rep at Liberty Insurance Botswana. Presently, she holds the position of Office Manager at 315, where she envisions ample opportunities to apply her skills and contribute to business growth. Zanele's journey is an ongoing saga of determination and ambition. Committed to her goals, she plans to advance her studies, fueled by an unwavering determination to continually progress and achieve success. |