get to know us!
inside the Vuyani Lodge
We had an interesting post with Aggi, Bernard’s bike and the lion pride last week. But Reckson, who many of our guest whom have visited the lodge will know, had his own little adventure with one of the fiercest creatures on earth! Also present in the battle against the Honeybadger was Jesse.
Photos courtesy of: Robert Sullivan & Elisabeth Armstrong, Rina Erasmus
Montage: Gilles
Just so you know what Reckson was up against – check this video :p
If you have visited Vuyani Safari Lodge you will most probably be familiar with Ms Portia. She is one of the lovely women who are responsible for the cleanliness of your room and the lodge. Portia is always has a great smile on her face and is ever ready to greet our guests with a “Good Morning” These women mostly work ‘behind the scenes’ but are not too shy to indulge in conversation. Portia is most definitely the most outspoken of the staff members! And she always brings an inevitable energy to Vuyani.
What are your Full Names? 
Portia Thato Chiloane
When and where were you born?
Portia is the daughter of Yvonne Chiloane (who coincidentally also works at Vuyani Safari Lodge) and father Otto Mashego. Portia never really knew her father and was mostly raised by her mother, Yvonne. She reckons this is why she has such good people skills!
Where did you go to school?
I went to Nkotobona High School and matriculated in 2003. I learnt English at school; my home language is Pedi. I can also speak English, Afrikaans, Shangaan and Swati.
When did you start working in the lodge industry? 
I started working on Moditlo Private Game Reserve before Vuyani Safari Lodge was built. When Vuyani opened its doors I saw my opportunity to get my foot in the door and didn’t hesitate for minute. I was taught most of my skills by my mother, who has been in the hospitality industry for more than 17 years, I could not have asked for a better teacher.
Why did you choose to work in the lodge industry?
I knew working with guests would involve speaking mostly English and what better way to improve one’s language than by speaking it. At work we try and speak mostly English and then speak our native tongue when we are home. Although it is hard to not switch to your native language when you want to have a quick laugh with your colleagues, I think everyone tends to do this.
What do you love most about working in the bush and why?
I don’t think I could ever live in the city. The constant noise and pollution! And not to mention the busy lifestyle, people in the city don’t have much time for socializing. Out here we often make time for a quick chat, when I see someone I know in the village we will always stop and have a quick chat. Life is much laid back here – the people who live here are good people. I like the idea of knowing my neighbour, my local grocer and even the bus driver!
Are you married (when did you marry and where did you meet) do you have children?
*Laughs* I am not married! I do have a beautiful daughter who is 7 years old and is currently in 2nd Grade.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time I like to unwind and partake in everyday tasks such as watching television (catching up on my Soap Opera’s) I also love listening to Gospel Music and my favourite artist is without doubt Matlakala.
What is your favourite animal?
I will have to say an Elephant.
If you could do anything in the world what would it be? 
I actually did a Administration Management Diploma last year through IQ Academy and recently a Diploma through Avuxeni Computer Academy. I think if I could choose any career or job in the world I would love to own a Computer Training Facility – where I can teach people how to make use of technology. The older generation are still very weary of Computers and often do things the way they were taught, if only they could see how much easier the use of technology makes everyday life.
Portia and I often have our little conversations (which usually end in big fits of laughter) this is mainly because we are both single girls and like to tease each other about our relationship statuses. Especially when we hear the other staff members talking about their spouses, Portia is an energetic and sociable woman! She is also without a doubt the loudest speaking out of all us! But this brings a different kind of liveliness to the Lodge. So if you are planning a visit to Vuyani Safari Lodge make sure you keep an eye out for Portia.
*Justine Ferreira
If you have visited Vuyani Safari Lodge you will most certainly be familiar with Ms Rose. And if you are planning or have planned a Safari at Vuyani you are in for a treat! Rose is one of the foremost staff members in the kitchen. She bakes the most delicious Biscuits, Tarts and Cakes and delivers mouth watering High Tea Menus. She is a star in the kitchen and Head Chef Shane often says that he would not be able to deliver such magnificent dishes if it weren’t for Rose’s talents. Rose always has a smile on her face and loves the occasional little chat. I have set up a mini interview with her – so our guests can get to know the “Darling of Vuyani” a little better:
What are your Full Names?
Mokgadi Rose Sehlabela
When and where were you born?
Rose is the daughter of Mother Esenia Malatie and Father Sam Sehlabela and was born on the 25th of October 1970 in Mapulane Hospital in Bushbuckridge Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. Unfortunately both her parents passed away in 2011. Her mother was a devoted housewife to 5 children and her father worked as a Car Mechanic.
Where did you go to school?
I went to Ben Matlushe High School and matriculated in 1995. I learnt English at school; my home language is Northern Sotho. I can also speak English, Afrikaans, Shangaan and Zulu.
When did you start working in the lodge industry?
Started out on a nearby Private Game Reserve where there was an opening in the Scullery. Seeing this opportunity for further growth she immediately took the job. She learnt most of her skills and obtained food knowledge through watching the chefs in the kitchen. The Head Chef saw her interest and potential and promoted her to the Cold Kitchen where she started assisting in the preparation of Salads and lunch platters. At a later stage Rose was put in charge of cooking all staff meals. She worked her way up and soon became one of the lead Sous Chefs. Rose told me that anything is possible through dedication, passion and hard work.
Why did you choose to work in the lodge industry?
I wanted to improve myself as a person. I knew that with enough dedication and hard work I could change my path. I accepted the opportunity and it has now paid off. I also love meeting people from all over the world and sharing stories.
What do you love most about working in the bush and why?
I am able to live in nature! I do not think I could ever move to the city. Making a living in the city is very expensive and there is so much crime. Where we live people are in harmony with each other. We have a much laid back life style and I can see Wildlife every day, I also have a couple of chickens running around my yard.
Are you married (when did you marry and where did you meet) do you have children?
Rose met her husband Cynet Monareng when she worked at the Private Game Reserve. He started work there in 1997 as a Tracker (Scout) they married in 2008 and have three children. .
What does your husband and children do?
My husband is now the Head Ranger at a nearby Private Game Reserve. Two of my children are still in Primary School and my eldest is currently studying Human Resources in Nelspruit.
What do you like to do in your free time?
With two young children I do not have much free time. But I like to walk my kids to school, decorate my home and just sit my garden enjoying the peace.
What is your favourite animal?
I will have to say an Elephant.
If you could do anything in the world what would it be?
If I had to choose anything I think I would like to own my own company one day and be the Head of Office Administration.
Rose and I had a very nice little chat when I was “interrogating” her about her life. She is a dear. She loves her husband and children very much and she is a real “mother” she always makes sure we have had something to eat.
I met Rose in 2004 at the Private Reserve where I was placed as a Student. Rose’s husband Cynet was my Senior Ranger (and a very strict one) he taught me a great deal and I have immense respect for him as a guide. I had my first Elephant encounter on foot with him (memories made)
As I said if you have had the opportunity to meet Rose you will know exactly what a sweetheart she is and how delicious everything that she creates is! If you are still to visit Vuyani – well you most certainly have something to look forward to.
*Justine Ferreira
The Vuyani Lodge is proud to announce the planned launch of a second campaign on the Jetsetter.com website in January. The Jetsetter.com was impressed by the positive feedback of the first American guests it had booked for the safari lodge and has decided to further its collaboration with us. The lodge will also feature on the Jetsetter’s retail booking website, which is to be launched in early December this year.
We are looking forward to welcoming even more guests from the US for some amazing safari holidays here at the Vuyani Lodge on the Moditlo Private Game Reserve.