Tables and slots, meet the new Assistant Gaming Managers for Meropa Casino
Sun International continues growing female roles in perceived male-dominated casino industry
CAPTION (left to right): Meropa’s inspirational women managers: Suzan Dikutle, Assistant Gaming Manager for the Tables Department; and Thembi Maseko, Assistant Gaming Manager for the Slots Department
Meropa Casino & Entertainment World in Limpopo kicked off 2025 with the appointment of two female Assistant Gaming managers on the casino floor.
Suzan Dikutle and Thembi Maseko both report directly to General Manager Sammy Mokhele.
“Within International Women’s Month, we acknowledge Suzan Dikutle and Thembi Maseko, who recently joined Meropa, the heartbeat of Limpopo. Their appointments reflect our commitment to enhancing our gaming offerings and delivering exceptional service to our guests,” said Mokhele. “They have already overseen the casino’s tables and slots departments for three months and collectively supervised more than R3.5-million in jackpot payouts to our guests.”
Suzan Dikutle, Assistant Gaming Manager for the Tables Department
Dikutle, Assistant Gaming Manager for the Tables Department, brings over 25 years of extensive gaming experience and over 15 years in Management. Her career started at Sun City Resort where she has held various positions, including Tables Dealer, Tables Inspector, Tables Pit Manager, and Gaming Floor Manager. Dikutle holds a degree in Business Administration from UNISA and certifications in project and operations management, corporate governance and ethics.
“I aim to grow the casino’s private gaming table games such as Blackjack, Baccarat, and Poker, and develop the skills of those in my department,” Dikutle said.
Thembi Maseko, Assistant Gaming Manager for the Slots Department
Maseko returns to Meropa after almost 10 years as Assistant Gaming Manager for the Slots Department. Her career started in 1999 in Johannesburg at Carnival City as a Guest Service Attendant. From there, Maseko has moved up the ranks from Slots Supervisor, Slots Shift Manager, Assistant Slots Manager to Gaming Manager.
Maseko has completed numerous training courses, including the Gaming Management Development Programme; Supervisory Development; HR; and learning and development programmes, and customer service.
“I have managed a vast range of projects, including the opening of new casinos, machine moves planning, casino promotions, loyalty programmes, and training and development,” said Maseko. “I am thrilled to be back under the Sun International brand, and look forward to bringing my many years of gaming and hospitality experience to Meropa.”
Maseko advises women entering the gaming and hospitality industry to embrace the unique perspectives they bring, as diversity is a valuable asset. She emphasises the importance of seeking mentorship from experienced professionals, which can provide guidance and insight. “Consistently build relevant skills which are essential for career growth. It is also crucial to advocate for oneself with confidence, whether during negotiations for opportunities or when sharing ideas. Finally, foster a supportive network of peers and mentors who can offer encouragement and assistance.”
The gaming industry has historically been viewed as male-dominated, but recent years have seen a significant shift as more women are taking on senior positions on the casino floor. “For women looking to start a career in this industry or those striving to climb the corporate ladder, this change is truly inspiring. An increasing number of women are stepping into leadership roles, driving change and innovation while bringing fresh perspectives to the field,” said Mokhele.