FOSTERING A CULTURE OF EXCELLENCE

In the leisure and hospitality industry, the influence of women is deeply rooted. At the Beekman Group, I have witnessed how women shape our business, from strategy and service to culture and care. Their impact is not only measurable but deeply felt.

 Nearly 30 years into this journey, I am still humbled by the scale of our growth. Leading a family-founded business is both a privilege and a responsibility. As a woman in this role, I have embraced the opportunity to lead with empathy, trust and collaboration. These qualities have helped shape a leadership style that is transparent, steady and inclusive.

 From the outset, we have worked to build a culture that supports the growth of every employee. Our approach goes beyond ticking boxes. We offer wellness programmes, on-site support services and an aftercare facility for working parents. These are not perks. They are part of a deliberate strategy to create an environment where people, especially women, can succeed personally and professionally.

The results speak for themselves.Of our 1300 employees in South quiet strength. Her resilience has earned her deep respect. Her colleagues, Petronella Ndlovu and Abegail Mthembu, also exemplify leadership that extends beyond the workplace. Africa, 60 percent are women. Across the Group, 65 percent of all leadership roles are held by women. More than half of our department and resort managers are women, many of whom have risen through the ranks. These f igures reflect a culture built on opportunity, trust and consistency.

What makes me most proud is the calibre of our women leaders. T hey lead with a combination of care and competence that inspires everyone around them. Cynthia Mfeka at Dolphin View Cabanas is one such example. After losing her sisters, she took on the care of their eight children, all while continuing to lead her team with quiet strength. Her resilience has earned her deep respect.

Her colleagues, Petronella Ndlovu and Abegail Mthembu, also exemplify leadership that extends beyond the workplace.Petronella supports community upliftment projects, while Abegail, a local pastor, offers emotional guidance to families. At Cayley Mountain Resort, Victoria, known as Aunty Vic, leads a large housekeeping team with compassion and dedication, becoming a pillar of strength in the process.

 Their stories are echoed across the Group. Many of our women started in entry-level positions and have worked their way into leadership roles. Selina Sello at Kiara Lodge began as a cleaner in 1990. Today, her daughter works in our Body Bliss Day Spa, and her granddaughter is now receiving an education because of that support. These are stories of legacy and upliftment.

We view empowerment as a daily commitment. Structured training and mentorship programmes are key to supporting career growth. We recognise loyalty, support working families, and encourage community involvement. This people-first approach is deeply woven into our business model. Women held 65% of all leadership roles in the Beekman Group. Pictured here are Cindy Allan, front centre, and women leaders in executive and management roles.. As a female director and founding family member, I take this responsibility personally. Empowerment is not a one-off initiative. It is a mindset and a culture that requires consistency and intention.

Our commitment has been recognised through the PMR. africa 2025 Diamond Arrow Award, honouring companies that advance the interests of women in the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. We also received the KZN Top Business Award for Employee Wellness for the second year running. These accolades reflect our belief that when employees are trusted, supported and equipped, they thrive and the business thrives with them.

What continues to inspire me is the strength of our women leaders. They drive results, build trust and help shape a culture of excellence. At the Beekman Group, we believe in creating real opportunities for growth. T he journey is meaningful, the work is rewarding, and the path forward is built on respect and shared purpose.

If you are someone who values consistency, integrity and the chance to make a real impact, we welcome you to explore what it means to be part of our team.

W: www.beekmangroup.com