Botswana, 18th Apr 2025 - When you think of a true change maker in Botswana’s mental health and wellness space, Shanel Nayang Monyere-Nikolic stands tall. With over 13 years of experience, academic credentials from some of the world’s most respected institutions, and a heart rooted in compassion, Shanel has become a national force of healing, empowerment, and transformation.
From her deep clinical work to empowering youth through creative and technical innovation, she has earned the reputation of being Botswana’s leading therapist with a heart of gold.
Academic Foundation with Global Depth
Shanel’s journey began with a Bachelor of Arts and Honours in Psychology from Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in Port Elizabeth. She went on to obtain a Master of Psychology course work (Human Learning and Performance Psychology) Erasmus University Rotterdam in The Netherlands and is currently doing her Msc Psychology in Liverpool John Moores University in the U.K.
Adding to her technical expertise, she also completed training in Qualitative and Quantitative Data Analysis at Utrecht University, equipping her with high-level statistical, analytical, and research skills that now form the backbone of her data-informed wellness programs. Shanel has a passion of travelling and has visited many countries as a quest for self fulfillment.
A Voice for the Nation
A recognized public voice, Shanel has appeared multiple times on BTV (Botswana Television) discussing pressing issues such as workplace mental health, filicide, GBV, substance abuse, and COVID-related trauma. She’s also a familiar voice on radio morning shows and podcasts, where her honest, insightful, and solution-driven conversations have provided healing and inspiration to countless listeners across Botswana.
Her work has bridged the gaps between public awareness and professional care, demystifying mental health and putting essential knowledge in the hands of the people.
Professional Excellence Rooted in Service
Currently serving as the Head of Counselling and Social Development at New Era College, Shanel oversees student support services, leads strategic interventions for vulnerable populations (OVC/RAD/SEN), and conducts national outreach with social workers across regions. Her innovative rapport-building techniques, including direct engagement and welfare checks, have improved student tracking and support services across Botswana.
In addition to her academic role, she is the Director of Medical Guardian and Response, where she leads a multidisciplinary team focusing on strategic health planning, community-centered innovation, and crisis response.
Shanel has also worked extensively in therapeutic environments including Princess Marina Hospital, Dr. Cobus Van de Walt Psychological Services, and Life Gaborone Private Hospital, specializing in mental health counselling, crisis intervention, and substance abuse recovery — the latter in which she holds professional certification. Her work in this area has heavily impacted youth rehabilitation and behavior change.
Innovation in Education: AI, Tech & Youth Empowerment
Shanel's leadership expands beyond traditional counselling. She has played a key role in digital education transformation efforts, co-hosting an AI Summit at New Era College in partnership with His Excellency Dr. Oleksiy Syvak, the Ukrainian Ambassador to Botswana. This high-level summit explored AI-driven educational tools for students as young as 10, right through to tertiary learners.
She also partnered with Siphiwe Mabusela of NzuluAI to host additional events focused on digital learning and transformation, reaching hundreds of students with practical tools and exposure to global tech advancements. These events reflect her visionary leadership in merging mental wellness, education, and innovation.
Championing Community, Women & Holistic Wellness
Shanel is a proud advocate for both women and men. She leads multiple student clubs including the Young Mothers Club, Poetry and Expression Circles, and CSR groups — providing safe, empowering spaces for students to heal, grow, and thrive.
She is also a co-founder of “Girls Under the Hood” founded by Ms. Kagiso Madibana, a Botswana-based initiative helping women understand car mechanics, encouraging independence and safety on the road. At the same time, she emphasizes inclusivity in all her projects, advocating equally for men's mental health and support services.
Through past collaborations with organizations like Walk of Hope, Botswana Network of Mental Health, Drug Free is the New Cool, and Elegant Living, Shanel continues to shape the nation’s wellness culture with integrity and love.
From Delta Leadership to National Healing
Even her time in Botswana’s tourism industry as a Camp Manager in the Okavango Delta adds to her dynamic leadership profile. There, she mastered team building, cultural sensitivity, and crisis response in one of the world’s most complex and remote environments.
Final Word
Shanel Nayang Monyere-Nikolic is not just a professional, she is a purpose-driven trailblazer. Whether she's in a lecture hall, a radio booth, a community outreach in Gabane, or seated across from a patient in recovery, she brings the same depth, empathy, and passion. Her work has touched lives, changed mindsets, and built systems — all with a heart of gold.
Botswana is better because of her. And her journey is far from over
Shanel Nayang Monyere-Nikolic is not just a therapist — she’s a national asset, a beacon of hope, and a catalyst for sustainable well-being in Botswana. With her golden heart, global education, and unwavering commitment to change, she continues to inspire, lead, and heal — one life, one community, one nation at a time.
Organization: Shanel Nayang Monyere-Nikolic.
Contact Person: Shanel Nayang Monyere-Nikolic.
Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanel-nayang-monyere-nikolic-23b68b11b
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Country:Botswana
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