SHAZIA JOHN, BOTSWANA’S RISING MODEL & YOUNG CONSERVATIONIST
At just 11 years old, Shazia John from Maun, Botswana, is already living a life many grown-ups can only dream of. Bright-eyed, confident, and deeply passionate, Shazia is not only a young model but also a powerful voice for nature conservation. Her story is one of creativity, courage, and compassion, and it’s only just beginning.
Shazia was born in Maun, a town often referred to as the tourism capital of Botswana. Growing up surrounded by nature inspired her in a unique way. While many kids dream of becoming models or doctors, Shazia found a way to blend her love for fashion with her desire to protect the environment. She is the founder of the “Mr and Miss Nature Conservancy,” a one-of-a-kind pageant that goes beyond beauty. The initiative welcomes participants aged 3 to 45 and encourages people of all ages to get involved in giving back to nature. As Shazia puts it, “No hand is too small or too old to give back to Mother Nature.” Through this platform, finalists are given exposure to local and international events, from fashion shows to beauty pageants, helping them grow as individuals and ambassadors for change.
Her journey into modeling began during her preschool graduation. A teacher noticed something special about her and suggested to her mother that Shazia should try modeling. That simple suggestion opened the doors to a new world. Not long after, she had her first professional photoshoot in Gaborone when she was just five or six years old. She remembers the experience vividly, it sparked something deep within her and ignited a passion she’s been following ever since.
Although she describes herself as shy when off stage, Shazia completely transforms in front of the crowd. “Modeling really boosts my confidence and self-esteem,” she says. “I’m mostly shy in public, but on stage, I feel like a completely different person.” Despite the occasional nerves, she’s found ways to center herself. Taking deep breaths, staying calm, and focusing on her own performance are all part of her routine before stepping into the spotlight. Still, it’s not always easy. She admits that sometimes angry parents backstage can make the atmosphere tense and even a bit scary. But thanks to caring organizers, the environment is kept safe and supportive. And in the midst of it all, backstage becomes a space of friendship, where young models share laughter, learn from one another, and make memories.
Shazia is not only growing in her modeling career, but she’s also a committed student. Balancing both worlds might sound like a challenge, but she has found a rhythm that works. She believes it all comes down to balance and staying focused on what matters most. Her parents and teachers are very supportive, helping her stay organized while allowing her to explore her creative side. She appreciates school for what it brings into her life, knowledge, structure, and friendships, and she sees modeling as a space where she can express herself and grow in confidence. For Shazia, both are equally important. She finds joy in learning new things, and she surrounds herself with kind friends like Nirra, Leann, Jamie-Lee, and Omaatla. But she insists that she’s friends with everyone at school, and values the unity and love among her classmates.
At home, Shazia is just like any other child. She spends her weekends playing with her siblings, Farreyl and Ethan, and their close family friend, Akilah. Sometimes they stay indoors, and other times they head outside for fun. It’s always lively, always beautiful, and always filled with laughter. Her hobbies are just as vibrant as her personality. She enjoys dancing and even joined a cheerleading group at school to improve her skills. She’s a big fan of swimming during the summer and likes playing games like Roblox in her free time. One of her favorite pastimes is playing dress-up. She often sneaks into her mother’s closet, grabs a few outfits, makes some adjustments with a needle and thread to make them fit just right, and then struts down her “runway” at home. At first, her mom used to complain, but now, she smiles and says Shazia is going to be the next big fashionista.
Even though she’s becoming more recognizable, Shazia remains humble. She understands that being in the spotlight means a lot of people know who she is, even if she doesn’t know them. When this happens, she keeps it simple: she smiles, waves, and says hello. “It’s okay not to know everyone,” she says. “I’m still learning how to handle all the attention, but I’m grateful for the support and kind words.”
When asked if she ever feels pressure from being in the public eye, her answer is honest and refreshing. “No, I don’t feel any pressure at all. I’m just a normal girl, a child, a daughter, a sister. God made us all different, but He made us equal in His eyes.” That sense of grounding and self-awareness is rare in someone so young, but it defines who Shazia is.
Above all, Shazia’s message is clear: confidence comes from being true to yourself. Whether she’s modeling, at school, or just spending time with her loved ones, she finds strength in expressing herself authentically and believing in her own potential. Her family and friends are her biggest cheerleaders, and their support gives her the courage to keep going and dreaming bigger every day.
Shazia John is more than just a young model, she is a visionary, a leader, and a kind soul with a mission to make the world a more beautiful place, not just through fashion, but through purpose. Her story reminds us all that you’re never too young to make an impact, and never too small to dream big.
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