Monica Mathebula shares pearls of wisdom on tourism
According to Mathebula, the owner of Temaswati Lodge, anyone entering the industry must note that tourism has to be one's passion in order to thrive and grow.
Barberton is tourism country. In our weekly focus on the personalities in our town, Barberton Times spoke to the vibrant Monica Mathebula, owner of Temaswati Lodge. Mathebula is one of the leaders in the local tourism industry.
“Dating back to my primary school days in the ’80s, tourism was always the second-largest economic booster of our area. Counting the tour buses that used to park at the Impala Phoenix hotels was a hobby enjoyed by many, particularly when I was a youngster.
“Those days hotel employees were well-respected. I always knew that someday it would be my vocation too. My passion for a tourism-related product started back then.
“I started by converting my house into a guest house in 2007, having three en suites, and I named it Temaswati Lodge. With support from the business industry, the local community and others, we now boast 18 en-suite rooms and a conference facility. Temaswati Lodge employs five staff members, all from the local community.
“Such achievements are usually a group effort and I must thank Barberton Local Tourism for the continuous support. Astrid Christianson and the staff of the local tourism office have placed Temaswati Lodge on the map.
“Looking back, both my mother and stepfather were domestic workers. To a certain extent, this worked to my advantage. I mostly stayed with the Duncan family who exposed me to the tourism activities of the area.
“On weekends we would go on hiking trails or visit the local museums, among many other things. My exposure to such a family and their involvement in the local community helped me bridge the racial gap back then.”
Her advice to anyone entering the industry is the importance to note that tourism has to be one’s passion in order to thrive and grow.
“Excellence breeds contempt in this industry, be comfortable in your own product, no matter how small, and you will make it.
“It is through my undying passion for tourism and the support received from everyone that I have now opened another establishment in Hectospruit, called Tebukhosi Lodge. A unique edge to my establishments is to maintain the Siswati culture within a modern-day hospitality facility.”
