Celebrating the Women Behind the Magic for National Women's Month
Every August, South Africa recognises National Women’s Month as a way to honour the courage and collective strength of the women who helped shape our country’s history. It’s a month rooted in the historic march of 9 August 1956, when thousands of women made their way to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest against the extension of pass laws to women.
Every August, South Africa recognises National Women’s Month as a way to honour the courage and collective strength of the women who helped shape our country’s history. It’s a month rooted in the historic march of 9 August 1956, when thousands of women made their way to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest against the extension of pass laws to women. Their actions became a defining moment in the struggle for freedom, and a powerful reminder that progress is rarely carried by one person alone, but by many hands, many voices, and many acts of determination and care.
At The Royal Madikwe, this sentiment feels especially close to home.
Behind every seamless stay is a team of remarkable women whose warmth, skills and sense of service help shape the guest experience in ways both seen and unseen. They are the hands behind the thoughtful touches and the heart woven into so many moments of a stay.
Some people become part of a place so completely, it's hard to imagine it without them. For The Royal, that person is Kenny.
As our Head of Housekeeping and longest-standing team member, Kenny has helped create a comfortable home-away-from-home experience for countless guests over the past two decades. Known for her infectious smile, vibrant energy and beautiful singing voice, she brings warmth to every welcome and is a true reflection of the spirit of The Royal.
“My journey started 22 years ago, on the 4th May 2004. At the time, I was working at the lodge that later became Royal Madikwe. That’s when I met Dr Patel for the first time. From the moment we spoke, I felt his warmth and kindness. He made me feel so welcome, and I just knew this was a place I’d be happy. From that day, I’ve stayed, and it’s been a special journey ever since.”
Working alongside fellow housekeeper Tshepi, Kenny ensures every suite is perfectly prepared ~ complete with turndowns that include handwritten notes, poems and freshly picked flowers to make every guest feel warmly welcomed.
In the Royal kitchen, that same sense of care takes on another form. Alongside Head Chef Zuki, Sous Chef Danielle brings calm, creativity and skill to the dining experience. Friendly and wonderfully talented, Danielle is also the creative mind behind many of the recipes we share online from the Royal kitchen, helping bring the flavours of the lodge to life beyond the bushveld.
“My favourite dish to serve is the Chinese five-spice duck breast with pumpkin fondant, baby carrots, tenderstem broccoli and cranberry jus,” she says. “I absolutely love duck ~ it’s one of my favourite proteins to work with. It’s an incredibly flavourful dish, and there’s also a lot of technique that goes into preparing it.”
And then there is Adri, who works alongside Greg as part of our management couple. Down to earth and always eager to help, Adri brings meticulous attention to detail and a wonderfully warm approach to hosting. Together, their dedication and genuine love for lodge life helps guide the daily rhythm of The Royal, ensuring guests feel taken care of from the moment they arrive.
Of course, these are only a few of the women who help make The Royal Madikwe what it is... Among them is Portia, who works with Joseph and Winner as part of our butler team ~ and Catherine, our spa therapist, whose skilled hands and genuine passion for holistic care create space for guests to relax and reconnect after the excitement of safari.
From the kitchen to the spa, reservations to housekeeping, the ladies of The Royal bring generosity and excellence to every corner of the lodge. And so, we honour them this Women's Month not only for the roles they play but for the feelings they create. Because when guests speak of The Royal Madikwe, they speak of more than the wildlife or the views. They speak of the warmth of the people; of being cared for and welcomed like family. And so much of that magic begins with the women behind it.
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