It is not easy to keep one’s feet on the ground when you are part of one of Botswana’s biggest television music show, “Flava Dome,” which airs Friday nights on Botswana Television (BTV). Many youngsters cannot cope with the pressure that comes with fame, but not Loungo Pitse, the shows current presenter. TimeOut correspondent, Thabang Regoeng, chatted the versatile presenter.
King Bee, as he is affectionately known, is a fun loving, smart, confident, and ambitious lad who has a degree in Broadcasting from Limkwokwing. He is currently pursuing another degree in Media Studies from the University of Botswana. Pitse got his big break when he landed a role in the BBC\HBO TV show, The Number One Ladies Detective Agency, starring alongside big name stars like Jill Scott, Idris Elba, Anaki None Rose just to mention.
Q:who is loungo pitse
A:Loungo is the embodiment of the word entertainer. Outgoing, fearless, and a team player. I am an entrepreneur, an actor, mc, voice-over artist you name it. I am very versatile in my craft and I take it seriously.
Q:How did you start a career in tv presenting?
A:I grew up watching Yo-TV and Bop TV. Seeing young people entertain was an aphrodisiac for me. I auditioned for Mantlwaneng but I didn’t get the job. A couple of years later, I auditioned for ‘My African Dream’ and got the job. That’s how I got into TV. Are role models who inspired me, Ryan Seacrest, Bonang, Phat Joe, Bonni Dintwa, Thabiso Nasha and Sthandwa Mmopi have all done it for me.
Q:You starred in ‘the number one ladies dectective agency,’ is acting something you would do again?
A: Absolutely! Are you kidding, hell yeah. For me, starting out with something major like Mma Ramotswe was mind blowing. I acted alongside Jill Scott, Anika Noni Rose and Desmond Dube, that was a dream come true. Its only that I haven’t found something that tickles my fancy at the moment, but when I do, I will let you know.
Q:Acting vs presenting, which one do you enjoy the most?
A: That’s unfair, lol. I love both and enjoy what I do! I’m very fortunate to do what I love whole heartedly. It’s not easy but because I have passion, drive and determination I am not resting until I have mastered my craft.
Q: You seem quite versatile in the media industry, how do you do it?
A: Love, passion, God, support from family, good friends, and learning to shut up and listen. Taking criticism well, especially constructive criticism. You need to know who you are in this industry for it’s really cold out here, it’s a dog eat dog world. Even those that smile with you will stab you in the back and sell you out for quick cash. Horrible! My advice is stay in your lane and slay.
Q: Any challenges?
A: Yep. People trying to devalue your brand is a common occurrence in this industry. It’s quite sad, but then it comes with the territory. You just have to keep your eye on the prize and have thick skin. Success is the best revenge.
The other challenge is event organizers who disrespect local talent. They would pay international acts ridiculous amounts of money and throw peanuts at local talent.
Q: How has studying further benefitted your career?
A: 210 percent! It’s an added advantage. It is vital because it provides a fall back plan, should things go wrong, I can always look for a job.
Q: Are you where you always wanted to be career-wise?
A:Not even close. I’m still playing games!
Q: Any advice to youngsters who want to reach greater heights like king bee in the media industry?
A: Drive and determination. You have to be strong emotionally, mentally and you need to know who you are. Don’t run after money, first perfect your craft, become a brand that sells. School helps as well as it develops your brain. Life is full of curveballs it’s how you respond that determines your success. Return the hate with love, kill them with kindness and bury them with success.