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Women at the Helm

on Nov 23, 2016

Sabi Sabi is decidedly a dream vacation, so imagine the glory of living as a couple, working together in an idyllic environment and potentially raising a family in the bushveld. All four of Sabi Sabi’s lodges have husband-and-wife management teams, with a group of warm, friendly and highly competent women at the helm. Throughout Sabi Sabi’s long history women have played an integral role in its success – working loyally in all departments as they ensure that we remain an award winning, world class destination.

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Earth Lodge recently welcomed management couple Bridget and Heath Thompson to the Sabi Sabi family. Having had many years of experience managing 5-star hotels and lodges, Bridget and Heath are the perfect fit. The pair sees this appointment as the highlight of their careers, and they are as delighted to be joining Sabi Sabi as we are to have them.

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Bush Lodge is expertly run by Lauren Wyndham, who has lived and flourished at Sabi Sabi for 16 years. Lauren is a wonderful organiser, a delightful, accomplished woman who is loved by staff and guests alike. Together with her husband Rod, Managing Director of Sabi Sabi, they make a very powerful leadership team. They have been instrumental in the transformation of Sabi Sabi into one of the most desirable destinations in the world, renowned for its 5-star luxury, unparalleled safaris, and genuine African hospitality.

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Ashleigh Heasman heads up our beautiful, historically themed Selati Camp. Husband Brett is Sabi Sabi’s Safari Manager, overseeing the guides and trackers from all four lodges. Ashleigh is renowned for her attention to detail, and the very personal and special touches she has introduced that make Selati the ultimate romantic lodge. Guests who visit the camp always comment on the absolutely wonderful welcome and care they receive from Ashleigh.

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Little Bush Camp is in the very capable hands of Alta du Toit, who has overseen extensive renovations this year, renovations which totally transformed the lodge into a somewhat eclectic, somewhat contemporary but always luxury vision of Africa. Her warmth and energy makes all guests feel instantly at home and reluctant to leave after their visit. Alta’s husband, Hugo, is the General Manager of Administration who efficiently ensures that all aspects of the Sabi Sabi operation run like clockwork.

There are many departments within Sabi Sabi, both at the lodges and at the Johannesburg Head Office, which are operated and managed by women. Mention must also be made of the highly talented female rangers who have broken the “glass ceiling” to excel in a predominantly male dominated career.

Sabi Sabi is more than just a destination- it is a family. Each person who works here and every guest who visits, feels the warmth, friendliness and respect which everyone is afforded. We are proud to watch and encourage our team, women and men alike, as they grow, thrive and reach their full potential in this very special place on the African continent.

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