Paula Potgieter, Owner & General Manager

What properties do you currently have in your portfolio?

Our two properties in the Portfolio are De Zeekoe Guest Farm and Wildehondekloof Private Game Reserve.

Can you describe the journey you went on from the moment you decided you would like to acquire your own hotel/lodge to the moment it was official?

My journey developed totally organically, starting with the First KKNK 2000 in Oudtshoorn, I never thought it would have grown in an establishment like it is today.

Have you had any mentor(s) along the way, and how important were they to your development?

I did not have any mentors, but have learned a lot from my colleagues in the portfolio of Cape Country Routes. We have been members for many years.

Have you ever had to open a hotel / lodge? What unique skills would you say it requires to do so?

Yes. Never give up, follow your dreams, treat every person with respect, never stop with training and upliftment, with praising a team you will achieve more in the end.

From the day you become owner of your first property, until today, you must have learnt so much. If you could share any one piece of sage guidance, to new owners, what would it be?

Marketing and networking is very important, never stop, and to do all your business with dignity.

I imagine that owning a property in a small town would come with different dynamics to a property in a big city. The same would go for a beach property on an island or a bush lodge in a remote corner of the world. Can you share how one adapts to managing in different environments?

Know your product and be honest with your marketing.

What has been the most unexpected pleasure that has come with owning a hotel/lodge?

People who remembered small things that you had done for them in the past and to see so many parts of the world while doing marketing.

How important is it for owners such as yourself to visit and experience other properties?

I love to visit new properties, always being inspired with new ideas.

How is your establishment contributing to the greater good & making the world a better place?

Our company is registered with Fair Trade in Tourism, companies and people will know that all our systems are in place. We are continually training staff on a regular basis. We make an effort to pray as a team on a regular basis to keep the spiritual atmosphere healthy and vibrant.