SERVER TO SHAREHOLDER
One Woman’s Inspiring Journey To Hospitality Success
Lungile “Lungi” Maphumulo’s journey to becoming a Value Shareholder at Brahman Hills, an award-winning property in the Kwa-Zulu Natal Midlands, is a testament to hard work, dedication, and a genuine passion for hospitality. With a career that has spanned over a decade, Lungi has proven that the key to success lies in consistently going the extra mile – whether it’s for her team, guests, or the business she now calls her own.
Growing up in Lamontville, south of Durban, she was raised in a family where education and discipline were key priorities. “My mom worked as an Operational Manager in Trauma Theatre, and my stepdad was a Chief Medical Officer in Paediatrics,” says Lungi. “They encouraged us to pursue independent career paths and always emphasised a strong work ethic. The most important lessons I learnt were through observation – those of love, finances and charity.” Faith also played a crucial role in shaping Lungi’s character who shares that the family went to church every Sunday, which taught her the importance of belief.
Although she has a diploma in a hospitality-related field from the Durban University of Technology, it was an industry Lungi never initially envisioned herself in. Nevertheless, her first job after graduation in 2011 was as a restaurant server at the 5-star Fairmont Zimbali Hotel in Ballito. Despite her short tenure of just four months, Lungi was inspired by the high service standards and the passionate training manager who ignited her love for training and development. “She inspired me to do everything with passion. That’s also when I fell in love with the idea of helping others grow,” she shares.
Her hospitality journey continued at Hampshire Hotel in Ballito. There, she received support and mentorship from the Assistant General Manager, who saw potential in her despite her inexperience. The owner of Ilawu Hospitality Group, who remains her mentor to this day, instilled in her the importance of taking ownership and her unwavering belief in Lungi’s abilities left a lasting impact.
In 2020, Lungile was hired by Brahman Hills. She initially applied for a Wedding Coordinator position, but her experience led to a role as Conference & Events Coordinator instead. “I planned most of our family gatherings, so it wasn’t a surprise that I excelled in event planning later on,” she laughs. In 2023, her hard work was rewarded with a promotion to Head of Coordination, and in 2024 she was named Head of Weddings & Events and became a Value Shareholder.
“In our business, we are driven by purpose and guided by massive goals, which is why we don’t settle for mediocrity. We look for people willing to push themselves beyond what they ever believed possible, go the extra mile, and offer their absolute best,” says Onwaba Gonyora, Director at Brahman Hills. “Lungi has risen to the challenge time and time again. She is a courageous leader and a testament to what it means to align purpose with greatness. We are honoured to welcome her to our executive leadership team.”
Reflecting on changes in the wedding and hospitality industry, Lungi says there is a greater emphasis on personalised experiences compared to 13 years ago. When asked about her favourite aspect of Brahman Hills, she immediately says the company’s family-oriented culture. “It’s less corporate and more about supporting each other. We also embrace failure here, which I think is crucial for growth.”
Lungi believes it’s important to prioritise family time and self-care, crediting her son’s morning kisses and coffee for jump-starting her day. Her love of cooking is her way of unwinding and she also enjoys travelling, exploring new cultures, and spending time in nature.
And her advice for aspiring leaders in the hospitality industry? “Your team will be inspired by your actions. Show them what great leadership looks like, and don’t be afraid to hire people as talented as you are – it only makes the team stronger,” she concludes.