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