In a notable stride towards enhancing diversity and equity in South Africa’s tourism sector, the Khulanathi Leadership Development Programme has celebrated the graduation of its third cohort. This milestone underscores the programme’s mission to address the gender and equity gap within the industry by cultivating talented individuals for leadership roles.
The Khulanathi programme, aptly named “grow with us,” offers a comprehensive 12-month training initiative. Participants undergo a rigorous six-month management course facilitated by the University of Stellenbosch Business School Executive Development (Pty) Ltd., followed by an internal curriculum that includes formal education, discipline-specific development, cross-exposure, and job shadowing. This holistic approach ensures participants are well-prepared to step into leadership positions, equipped with essential skills and knowledge.
Benjamin Memani, Marriott International’s Area Director of HR for Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighted the importance of such initiatives: “With South Africa’s hospitality industry projected to reach $1.68 billion over the next five years, the travel and hospitality sector must invest in diverse talent to sustain equitable and inclusive growth. Through Khulanathi, we are supporting this growth by unlocking opportunity, empowering our talented workforce, and enabling them to realise their leadership potential.”
Since its inception in 2021, the Khulanathi Programme has graduated 29 individuals who have made significant contributions to the industry. The latest cohort adds eight more professionals to this esteemed group of alumni, with an additional ten participants set to begin their journey in July 2024.
Among this year’s graduates is Razeen Toeffie, Food and Beverage Manager at Johannesburg Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch. Reflecting on his experience, Toeffie remarked, “The Khulanathi programme has been transformative. It equipped me with comprehensive leadership skills and a deeper understanding of the business’s strategic goals. It has aligned my personal growth with the company’s vision.”
Toeffie also emphasized the programme’s collaborative environment, which offered invaluable opportunities to connect with peers and industry leaders, thus enriching his professional network. This experience was instrumental in his recent promotion, where he now oversees a larger team and manages more complex projects.
The Khulanathi Leadership Development Programme continues to be a cornerstone in nurturing talent and fostering an inclusive work environment within South Africa’s hospitality sector. By supporting individual growth and contributing to the broader goal of equity and representation, the programme sets a strong precedent for the future of the industry.
