Our concierges represent the heart of hospitality, each with a unique journey that reflects their passion and dedication to the industry. From humble beginnings, they’ve risen through the ranks, driven by a desire to grow and enhance their understanding of operations. Inspired by mentors and role models, they see hospitality not just as a career, but as a calling. Many have embraced international cultures and languages, furthering their skills to better serve a diverse clientele. As part of global networks like InterNations, they not only engage in local and international events but also volunteer their time to lead and connect communities. Their unwavering commitment ensures that every guest experience is personal, memorable, and enriching.
PIET LEDWABA
IVORY MANOR BOUTIQUE HOTEL
At first, I was just looking for a job to make a living, but over time, I felt I belonged and decided to pursue further growth in the industry. I started as a banqueting waiter and worked my way through different departments/outlets to better understand how operations work. Now, 13 years later, I’m still here and still eager to grow further in the industry.
My role model, Amalia Boshoff, who is the General Manager of Protea Hotel Walvis Bay, Pelican Bay in Namibia, was the first person to believe I had what it takes to succeed in this industry.
The love and dedication I have for the industry have led me to see it not just as a career, but as something beyond. I’ve already started my journey by joining the InterNations Pretoria Community Leaders. InterNations has over 5 million members in more than 400 cities worldwide. As the largest international community for people who live and work abroad, InterNations offers global networking opportunities, local events, and expat-relevant information. As one of the leaders in Pretoria, I help plan and execute events as a volunteer.
With the influx of international guests at my workplace, mainly from Spain and Italy, I’ve taken it upon myself to learn their languages and better understand their cultures. Additionally, I am researching previous competitions to broaden my knowledge.
I recently finished reading Call After Midnight by award-winning author Tess Gerritsen.
URIEL RAMDHANEE
THE OYSTER BOX
I was inspired to enter a career in hospitality, as I have always had a passion for people. My mind is open to understanding different cultures and diverse personalities. I enjoy meeting people from all walks of life. I see myself developing to the point that I can take on challenging roles in management, in the industry.
Reading: A Game of Thrones by George RR Martin
MOGAMAT WASEEM HASKINS
SOUTHERN SUN CAPE SUN
I am in a people industry and I am always inspired by people who treat all levels of the workforce as the same, whether you are CEO or on the housekeeping team. I have a strong desire to become successful in life so I want to give it my all. I have a “get rich or die trying” approach to life.
Reading: The Art of War by an ancient Chinese military strategist Sun Tzu that goes back to the 5th century.
BRADLEY STEVENS
SOUTHERN SUN THE CULLINAN
Hospitality is in the family! My cousin has been working in the industry for a while and he had so many positive stories about his experience that it made me curious. I really like it and I see myself growing into becoming a front office manager. My role model is Jacques Moolman, who always treats his staff with utmost respect. He brings about an air of positivity. One day I want to develop my own team and grow future industry leaders.
Reading: Below Stairs by Margaret Powell
ASHWIN STEENKAMP
THE VINEYARD HOTEL
Initially I entered the industry as a cleaner for the Cullinan Hotel. At first I found myself admiring guests and the hotel itself but as time went on, I realised I had the kind of personality and enthusiasm that allowed me to connect well with people. I particularly like connecting with people from different countries and cultures. With my mom’s support – she is my role model – my interest developed into a passion for the hospitality industry. One day I aim to become a General Manager. I am particularly passionate about sustainability in the hospitality industry. I believe every contribution one can make to “go green” can make a great impact on the industry as a whole.
Reading: The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
ANDRIA MAREE
MOUNT NELSON, A BELMOND HOTEL, CAPE TOWN
I fell in love with the idea of becoming a concierge as I like the idea of creating memorable, once-in-a-lifetime memories for other people. I was inspired by Moira Malakana, the first female concierge in Cape Town to receive her Golden Keys and also my former manager Robyn Dyer who inspired me to head in this direction. I would really like to become head concierge for a world-renowned hotel and ultimately earn my Golden Keys and become a member of Les Clefs d’Or. As part of this journey, I work hard at building up industry contacts and I like being involved in the Cape Town concierge forum. It’s always good to learn from colleagues in the industry.
TAARIQ KOOPMAN
QUEEN VICTORIA HOTEL & MANOR HOUSE WATERFRONT
I have always wanted to make a positive difference in the lives of others. I love my country and enjoy helping others discover the beauty within the Mother City. My goal is to own my own range of hotels in South Africa and around the world, ensuring that the core values of our industry are preserved while applying five-star standards.
Reading: Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will Guidara, published by Penguin Random House
MASIBULELELE MZIMKULU
THE PRESIDENT HOTEL
I have always wanted to be in the hospitality industry and I am aiming high – I want to get my Golden Keys! My role model is Ravi Nadesan. He has been my inspiration. Eventually I want to become well-known as a successful concierge and in the future, I see myself turning the skills I am acquiring into becoming a tour guide.
Reading: What the Future? by Dr Justin Cohen
ANELISO KOPOLO
THE LAGOON BEACH HOTEL & SPA
I was inspired to enter the hospitality industry because of Siba! She (Siba Mntongana) is a CPUT graduate who managed to create an incredible career for herself. She landed up hosting her own television cooking show “Siba’s Table” and also owns a restaurant at a 5-star hotel in Cape Town! I believe my own future lies in becoming an F&B instructor. I think this will allow me to make a significant impact on the industry as I would be instructing future hoteliers and managers.
RIANO KIPPS
THE OYSTER COLLECTION
My personality is well suited to an industry that focuses on customer and client service. I have a strong drive to succeed and have a desire to travel and learn about different cultures. I study online courses to skill up and learn to become more creative as I have goals to create a power strategy to succeed in my field. I intend to develop a project that will enhance revenue growth while also promoting customer and client satisfaction. Part of this means including social and environmental benefits.
Reading: Books about Arsène Lupin
SHENAAZ BUTLER
WATERFRONT CONCIERGE
The allure of the hospitality industry is undeniable. To me, it offers a rich tapestry of experiences while interacting with different individuals from different backgrounds. Being part of this industry resonates with my core identity. I see my role models in life as being the people I meet along the journey who share the same sense of value placed on service. Eventually, I want to own my own service-driven business.
Reading: The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren
Pic: Shenaaz Butler with Ncebakazi Mketsu (Pastry Chef) and Chelsea Smith (Baker) of the Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, Cape Town
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INTER-HOTEL CHALLENGE, SOUTH AFRICA 2024 SHOWCOOK
IGNITING CAREERS IN HOSPITALITY & TOURISM
‘THE DIAMOND WORKS CONCIERGE’S CHOICE’ #InterHotelChallenge2024 | #DiamondWorksConcierge
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