THERE’S a saying that goes, ‘find a job you love, and you’ll never have to work a day in your life’.

Oyster Box Hotel doorman Kevin Pillay is testament to this and says he’s happy to have found a job he loves doing. “People think that being a doorman is a menial job with no true value, but they couldn’t be more wrong,” he said.

“You see, I’m the first person guests see when they come to the hotel. So I make sure I am friendly, cheerful and smiling as this is their first interaction with the hotel. I have to make sure I leave a lasting impression on guests,” he said.

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When Pillay first arrived at the hotel for a job interview, he was hired as a porter and then promoted to doorman.
Looking back, he said he never thought he would end up in the hospitality industry, but it’s a decision he has no regrets about as he’s learnt greatly from his job and his team.

“I think I’m a good fit for the hospitality industry now because I’m a friendly person. At first, I was very shy, but my job has forced me out of my shell,” added Pillay.

Another integral part of his job is taking care of the needs of Skebenga, uMhlanga’s famous cat who was adopted by the hotel when it opened.

“There are many of us who take care of Skebenga, but I’m his primary caregiver. I’m an animal lover, especially cats, so I enjoy taking care of him. He’s a grumpy old guy, but that’s why everyone loves him so much, I guess,” said Pillay.

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The doorman also says he has met several famous people over the years, both national and local stars, however, he is not particularly starstruck so can hardly remember their names.

He also made special mention of his team whom he loves working with.

“I work with good people. I have learnt so much from each of them. They’re one of the reasons I want to come to work every day. I love my job, and I see myself growing and one day being in a management position,” he said.

“Not everyone is meant to be a doctor, lawyer, dentist and the like. You have to love what you do for a living – only then is it worth it. Try out different jobs – even the ones that you think may not be a fit for you. Sometimes, you’ve got to start from the bottom and work your way up. All you need is a foot in the door,” said Pillay.

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