Pic : Hotel 247 Staff that has become family to Mthalane
When Khosi Mthalane acquired Hotel 247 in Whiteriver in 2020, she wasn’t just buying a property. She was building a dream rooted in people, community, and the belief that tourism can change lives.
The hotel which opened in March 2021, right in the middle of COVID-19, one of the toughest periods for the hospitality industry across the globe. It appeared not to be an ideal time to enter the market, but for Mthalane, the challenges only strengthened her resolve.
Starting with passion, building through adversity
“My journey into tourism was driven mostly by my passion for people and my desire to create something that could make a meaningful difference in my community. I have always enjoyed interacting with people, helping them and creating experiences where they feel welcomed and valued,” said Mthalane.
Pic: Owner of Hotel 247 in Whiteriver Ms Khosi Mthalane acquired
She also faced challenges around access to capital, attracting the right skills, managing operational costs and growing occupancy in a competitive market, but she learned quickly.
“Every challenge has taught me something. I have learnt that entrepreneurship is not about having everything figured out from the beginning, it is about being willing to learn, adapt and keep moving forward,” said Mthalane.
Job Creation and growing local economy
For Mthalane, Hotel 247 is about more than hospitality. It’s about impact.“Hotel 247 provides employment opportunities to people from the surrounding community and contributes to the local economy through our relationships with suppliers, service provider, tourism partners and other small businesses.
“ Our impact goes beyond direct employment; when guests stay at the hotel, they also spend money in the surrounding community, whether through restaurants, attractions, transport services, shopping or other tourism experiences,” she said.
Mthalane is a firm believer that creating sustainable employment is particularly important because every job represents a person and a family whose livelihood can be positively affected.
Showcasing Mpumalanga to the world
Located near Kruger National Park and the Panorama Route, Whiteriver gives Hotel 247 a strategic advantage. But Mthalane wants guests to experience more than just a place to sleep.
According to Mthalane, Mpumalanga is incredibly special because it offers such a diverse tourism experience, noting the world-renowned attractions, beautiful landscapes, wildlife, adventure tourism, rich cultural heritage and warm welcoming communities.
Pic : Hotel 247 Pool side and relaxation area for guests
“At Hotel 247 we want our visitors to experience more than just accommodation. Our dinner boma is one of the ways we create an experience that connects visitors with the warmth atmosphere and hospitality of our region,” she added.
Leadership, women and mentorship
She says resilience and humility define her leadership style.“One of the biggest lessons I have learnt is that leadership requires resilience, humility and the willingness to listen. Most importantly I have learnt that being a woman in business does not mean that we have to lead like someone else, we can lead with empathy and strength at the same time,” she said.
She’s also passionate about lifting other women.
“I believe that woman should create opportunities for other women whenever they can. Through the business, we create employment opportunities and support women within our departments. Sometimes what another woman needs is simply someone to tell her ‘You can do this’.”
“I would also like to do the same for others, particularly young women who may not have access to business networks or resources.” added Mthalane.
Partnerships have been key to her growth. She said her participation in programmes such as the http://Booking.com hospitality Growth Programme through Fetola, as well as engagement with the NEF (National Empowerment Fund), has helped her to strengthen the business and think more strategically about growth and investment.
According to Mthalane, one of the biggest lessons she has learnt is that you cannot build a successful business in isolation.
As travel goes digital, Hotel 247 has adapted too, which is a vital principle in adapting and looking ahead.
“We use digital platforms and online travel agencies to reach customers beyond Mpumalanga and South Africa. We also recognised the importance of having a strong digital presence because today’s travelers often research and compares destinations online before making a booking,” said Mthalane.
Balance, faith and self-care keep her grounded.
“Being a born-again Christian has helped me keep it balanced. I am also learning that taking care of yourself is part of being a good leader. You cannot keep on pouring into others without also making time to recharge,” she said.
Advice and legacy
Her message to aspiring entrepreneurs is direct.
“My advice would be start, even if you do not have everything figured out. Do your research, understand your market, know your numbers and be prepared to work hard. Passion is important, but passion alone does not build a sustainable business.
“Do not be afraid to ask questions or admit that you do not know something. Most importantly do not allow your circumstances to determine the size of your dream,” she affirms.
Over the next five years, Mthalane envisions Hotel 247 becoming stronger, more modern and competitive hospitality establishment, with improved facilities and experiences that reflect the character of Mpumalanga while meeting the expectations of both domestic and international travelers.
Ultimate goal bigger than the hotel.
“The legacy I would like to leave is bigger than Hotel 247, I want another young woman to look at my journey and believe that it is possible to build something meaningful, even when the journey is difficult,” Mthalane concluded.
