At the end of 2024, a shared dream took root. Tourvest Integrated Tourism Group, the Tourvest Foundation, AHA Hotels and Lodges, Nkambeni Safari Camp, the Nkambeni community, and Amani Spa & Wellness came together to launch a six-week Spa Therapist Skills Training and Development Programme. While the core training lasted six weeks, the full journey—including case studies and workplace experience—spanned six months, marking a meaningful first for women in the Nkambeni community.
The vision was bold: to uplift, upskill, and unlock the power within eight extraordinary women, offering them more than just training—but a doorway to self-worth, economic freedom, and a new identity. Says Ronleigh Gaddin, CEO and founder of Amani Spa & Wellness, “This pioneering initiative serves as a testament to what’s possible when purpose meets partnership.”
The Call to Rise
The programme was created for women who, until now, had been navigating life without access to formal qualifications—all of them unemployed. Over the course of the training, the learners engaged in both theoretical and practical learning. From anatomy and the foundations of massage therapy to professional conduct, manicures, pedicures, and soft skills development, the experience was holistic and hands-on. At its core, the programme aimed to build confidence, competence, and a sense of purpose—empowering each woman from the inside out.
And on the 10th of April 2025, that power was alive!
By 10am, you didn’t just hear it—you felt it! The beat of marimbas, the ululation, the rhythm of dancing feet—echoes of ancient and powerful celebration. Pride radiated through the crowd as eight women from their community stood in uniform, each holding a certificate that wasn’t just paper—it was proof. Of growth. Of grit. Of grace.
“I call my certificate ‘emerging’—because that’s what it feels like. Like I’m starting
something new.”
— Hope Mlime
Against the Odds
To rewind, Six months ago Nkambeni Safari Camp Management distributed an advertisement within the local community, announcing the new spa and inviting applications for the Learnership Programme. 722 applications were received, from which a final selection of 31 women from the surrounding communities was made. After a 2-day selection process, eight learners were chosen for the Learnership Programme, which officially commenced on 28th October. Xolile was one of just 31 women who handed in her CV in person.
“They told me there were 722 people and they only needed 8. I was like, ha ha, no way—they’ll take mine and throw it in the drain. Then suddenly, I got the call. I couldn’t believe it. It felt like a dream.”
— Xolile Gininda
The training was rigorous. For women who had been unemployed for months or years and had never worked in a spa environment—or even seen one—the six-week course tested them in every way.
“There were no days off. We’d wake at 5am to catch the 6am taxi, train until 4pm, then go home to cook, clean, look after our kids. But we kept going.”
— Thandiwe Sambo“It was hard at first, our hands were sore from the massages… but after a few weeks, everything felt good. Our hands got stronger.”
— Sharon Nkosi“I thought the massage was just rubbing, rubbing, rubbing,” Precious laughed. “I didn’t know there was a sequence.”
— Precious Nyalungu
Week by week, they learnt:
- Week 1: Professional Conduct
- Week 2: Massage Therapy
- Week 3: Manicures & Pedicures
- Week 4: Standard Operating Procedures
- Week 5: Spa management training
- Week 6: In spa training and role-play
“We cried. We were tired. We didn’t think we’d finish. But we did.”
— Isabel Themba
The Sisterhood
What carried them through the 6 weeks wasn’t just personal strength—it was the support of one another, and of the management team.
“They were patient with us. Even when we were down, they would sit us down, talk to us, and help us through. They have a beautiful heart.”
— Trecia Fakude (about Amani’s group training director, Christelle Pink and spa manager Patience Lambert)
As they gained practical skills, they also gained something deeper—a renewed sense of empowerment.
“I never imagined myself doing something so great that people would look at me and say: she deserves it.”
— Precious Nyalungu
“At first I was shy. I was afraid of people. But the training helped me. I enjoy marketing the spa, speaking to guests, and welcoming them.”
— Portia Mogane
The Day Everything Changed
The graduation ceremony was a love letter to African celebration—filled with music, ululation, singing, dancing, and emotion that could not be contained. As the women each entered the hall to collect their certificates, it became clear this was not just a graduation. It was a moment of empowerment and a testament to their courage, grit, and the power of opportunity.
“I learnt to never give up in life. Learn to fight for yourself. Don’t doubt yourself. You are perfect. You can do everything you want to do.”
— Isabel Themba
The 10th of April will forever be remembered as a day of transformation. Not just for eight women—but for the entire Nkambeni community.
As Mr. Monareng, Spokesperson for Chief Mhaule of the Nkambeni Community, closed the ceremony, he said:
“Do more of this. You changed eight women’s lives. Now do more.”
We have every intention of working together with other purpose-driven businesses to do just that, Mr. Monareng. Watch this space…
